Before You Start

Setting up an eSIM is quick and easy, but there are a few things you need to check first:

  • Device compatibility — Make sure your phone supports eSIM (see the list below)
  • WiFi connection — You need an internet connection to download the eSIM profile
  • Carrier unlock — Your phone must be unlocked to use third-party eSIM plans
  • QR code ready — Have your eSIM QR code (from the provider's email) visible on another screen or printed out

Compatible iPhone Models

iPhone XS, XS Max, XR, 11 series, 12 series, 13 series, 14 series, 15 series, 16 series, and iPhone SE (2nd/3rd gen).

Compatible Samsung Models

Galaxy S20, S21, S22, S23, S24, S25 series; Galaxy Z Fold 2-6; Galaxy Z Flip 3-6; Galaxy Note 20.

Compatible Google Pixel Models

Pixel 3, 3a, 4, 4a, 5, 5a, 6, 6a, 7, 7a, 8, 8a, 9 series.

How to Set Up eSIM on iPhone

Method 1: QR Code (Most Common)

  1. Open Settings on your iPhone
  2. Tap Cellular (or Mobile Data in some regions)
  3. Tap Add eSIM
  4. Select Use QR Code
  5. Point your camera at the QR code provided by your eSIM provider
  6. Wait 10-30 seconds for the profile to download
  7. When prompted, label the new plan (e.g., "Travel" or "Data")
  8. Choose which line to use for cellular data — select your new eSIM
  9. Done! You should see signal bars for your new eSIM line

Method 2: eSIM Carrier Activation

Some carriers support automatic activation. When you purchase from a supported carrier:

  1. Go to Settings → Cellular
  2. A notification may appear: "Carrier eSIM Ready to Install"
  3. Tap Continue and follow the prompts

Managing Your eSIM on iPhone

To switch between eSIM profiles: Settings → Cellular → Select which plan to use for data. To remove an eSIM: Settings → Cellular → Select the eSIM → Remove eSIM.

How to Set Up eSIM on Samsung Galaxy

  1. Open Settings
  2. Tap Connections
  3. Tap SIM Manager (or SIM Card Manager)
  4. Tap Add eSIM
  5. Select Scan QR Code from service provider
  6. Point your camera at the QR code
  7. Wait for the download to complete
  8. Tap Confirm to add the plan
  9. Enable the new eSIM and set it as your data SIM

Samsung Tips

  • Some Samsung phones allow you to add eSIM via the Samsung Members app
  • If you don't see the SIM Manager option, check for a software update
  • You can store multiple eSIM profiles but only have one active at a time (alongside your physical SIM)

How to Set Up eSIM on Google Pixel

  1. Open Settings
  2. Tap Network & Internet
  3. Tap SIMs
  4. Tap the + icon at the bottom
  5. Select Download a SIM instead?
  6. Tap Next
  7. Scan the QR code from your eSIM provider
  8. Wait for the profile to install
  9. Enable the new SIM and set preferences

Pixel Tips

  • Google Pixel phones have excellent eSIM support — activation is usually seamless
  • You can use Google Fi as a carrier eSIM alongside a travel eSIM
  • Pixel 7 and newer support multiple active eSIM profiles

Troubleshooting Common Issues

"Unable to activate eSIM"

This usually means your phone is carrier-locked. Contact your carrier to request an unlock, then try again.

"No network connection"

Make sure you're connected to WiFi during setup. Also verify that the eSIM plan covers your current country.

"QR code not scanning"

Try these fixes:

  • Ensure good lighting and hold the camera steady
  • Clean your camera lens
  • Try entering the activation code manually (the provider usually gives you a code along with the QR)
  • Make sure you're scanning the correct QR code (not the order confirmation)

"eSIM already active on another device"

Each eSIM QR code can only be used on one device. If you've used it before, contact the provider for a new QR code.

Data not working after activation

  1. Go to Settings and make sure the eSIM is set as your data line
  2. Enable Data Roaming for the eSIM line (if traveling internationally)
  3. Toggle airplane mode on and off
  4. Restart your phone