Does the iPad (9th generation) support eSIM?
The iPad (9th generation) supports eSIM, so you can install a travel data plan by scanning a QR code — no physical SIM swap and no roaming fees.
iPads sold in mainland China before 2024 have no eSIM, so a Chinese-market model of this iPad cannot use a travel eSIM. One bought in the UK or elsewhere supports eSIM normally.
Check it yourself in 10 seconds
- Open Settings.
- If you see Mobile Data (Cellular Data on US iPads), your iPad (9th generation) is a Wi-Fi + Cellular model and supports eSIM.
- No Mobile Data menu means a Wi-Fi-only iPad, which cannot use an eSIM.
How to set up a travel eSIM on the iPad (9th generation)
- Stay on Wi-Fi. Go to Settings → Mobile Data → Add a New Plan → Other.
- Scan the QR code from your idealesim order email, or enter the details manually.
- Turn on Data Roaming for the travel plan under Settings → Mobile Data.
- Your iPad can store several eSIMs but uses one at a time, so make sure the travel plan is the one turned on.
Is your iPad (9th generation) carrier-unlocked?
An eSIM-ready iPad (9th generation) still won't activate a travel eSIM if it's locked to a network. Phones bought outright are usually unlocked; contract phones often aren't. The 20-second check:
- A iPad bought outright from the maker or a shop is unlocked.
- One bought on a network contract may be locked to that network: ask the network if you are not sure.
Locked? Your carrier can usually unlock it for free once any contract is paid off.
iPad (9th generation) eSIM FAQ
Does the iPad (9th generation) support eSIM?
Yes. The iPad (9th generation) supports eSIM, so you can install a travel data plan by scanning a QR code — no physical SIM swap and no roaming fees.
How do I check if my iPad (9th generation) supports eSIM?
Open Settings. If you see Mobile Data (Cellular Data on US iPads), your iPad (9th generation) is a Wi-Fi + Cellular model and supports eSIM. Wi-Fi-only iPads have no Mobile Data menu and cannot use an eSIM.
How do I set up a travel eSIM on the iPad (9th generation)?
On Wi-Fi, go to Settings → Mobile Data → Add a New Plan → Other, then scan the QR code from your order email (or enter the details manually). Then turn on Data Roaming for the travel plan under Settings → Mobile Data. An iPad can store several eSIMs but uses one at a time.
Will my iPad (9th generation) work with a travel eSIM abroad?
Yes, as long as it is the Wi-Fi + Cellular (or 5G / LTE) version and not locked to a network. A travel eSIM from idealesim gives the iPad (9th generation) mobile data abroad with no roaming fees.