What is a Dual SIM Phone? | How to Set Up
Every smartphone operates with a SIM card, which manages the mobile phone number and communicates with the network carrier for your device. Dual SIM phones can hold two SIM cards at the same time, which opens up a number of opportunities and benefits.
Whether you're learning what a dual SIM phone is for the first time, or you’re ready to set one up for yourself, our comprehensive guide outlines everything you need to know from the different types of SIM cards to which phones are compatible.
If you don’t yet have a dual SIM phone, check out our range of contract and SIM-free options across a range of handsets.
How do dual SIM phones work?
Unlike regular phones, dual SIM devices can operate two SIM cards at once, whether that is a physical SIM or an e-SIM. This means users have the option to choose two different network carriers for each SIM card and determine which card they use for calls, texts and data usage. It’s also possible to designate one SIM card as the default SIM, or switch between the two.
The different types of dual SIM phones
Now you know what a dual SIM phone is, it’s important to understand the two types of dual SIM phone and their abilities.
DSDA
DSDA stands for Dual SIM Dual Standby. When using a dual SIM, you only use one SIM card at a time; the second SIM card is put into ‘standby mode’ and you have to switch between the two to use them. You’ll only receive calls or connect to the internet from one SIM, while the other is put on hold.
DSFA
DSFA stands for Dual SIM Full Active and means you can use both SIM cards simultaneously. With a DSFA phone, you can receive a call on both SIM cards at the same time and manage the calls together.
How do I know if my phone is DSDA or DSFA?
To check if your phone is DSDA or DSFA, go to the SIM card section of your settings menu. If there’s no mention of DSDA or using SIM cards simultaneously, your phone is likely a DSDA handset and will have an option to designate a favoured SIM card for calls etc.
Benefits of a dual SIM phone
Travel
Roaming charges while travelling abroad can be expensive, but dual SIM phones offer a way to avoid the extra costs. With dual SIM, you can purchase a SIM card that is local to your destination and install it as your second SIM; this means you’ll have a local number for calls and texts, as well as a local network carrier for making the most of data while travelling. It’s a quick and effective way to prevent a huge phone bill at the end of your holiday.
Work-life balance
Dual SIM phones are an affordable and practical alternative to having a designated work phone. Setting up a second SIM for work use can save money on a second handset and makes it easy to switch between the two carriers to receive work calls and texts. It also ensures your work contacts are kept separate to your personal contacts for easy management, while also helping to maintain your work-life balance.
Network coverage
Another benefit of dual SIM cards is the ability to maximise your network coverage when travelling between locations. By installing a second SIM on a different carrier, you can switch between networks and choose the one that has a stronger signal wherever you are, which is a great solution for commuters and frequent travellers.
How to set up dual SIM
Most people with a smartphone will already know how to set up a SIM card of some nature, so setting up a second SIM card will likely be straightforward. First, you’ll need to figure out which type of second SIM card is compatible with your phone.
Physical SIM cards
When using dual physical SIM cards, eject the SIM card tray and insert the second physical SIM into the opposite side of the tray, which is usually labelled ‘SIM 2’.
• iPhone: Activate your second SIM card as usual and label it accordingly in Settings > Cellular
• Android: Go to Settings > SIMs > Add SIM (these steps might differ depending on your Android model)
e-SIMs
e-SIMs are one of the more common methods of dual SIM, and don’t require any access to the SIM card tray.
• iPhone: Settings > Mobile Service > Add e-SIM > Tap ‘Use QR Code’ or ‘Enter Details Manually’
• Android: Settings > SIMs > Add SIM > Tap ‘Set up an eSIM’
Which phones are compatible with dual SIM?
Many people may not be aware that their phone is already compatible with dual SIM, as most smartphones now incorporate the feature. We’ve provided an overview of which phones are compatible with dual SIM:
• iPhone XS, XS Max, XR or later with iOS 12.1 or later
• Google Pixel 3a or later
• Samsung Galaxy S10, S10+, Note10+ or later
Now we’ve answered the question of what a dual SIM is, you’re ready to take full advantage of everything that this smartphone feature offers. If you’re still toying between the idea of a contract phone or SIM-only, check out our guide to the benefits of SIM-only before you decide.