How to Activate an eSIM on iPhone and Android Phone: A Step-by-Step Guide

With the rise of eSIM technology, the need to physically swap SIM cards has become a thing of the past. eSIM (Embedded SIM) offers a more convenient and flexible way to manage your mobile connectivity. Whether you're traveling abroad, switching carriers, or just looking for a way to eliminate the hassle of physical SIM cards, activating an eSIM on your smartphone is the way to go.

In this blog, we'll walk you through the process of setting up an eSIM on your smartphone (ios and android) and explain which devices support it, along with step-by-step instructions for activation.

The eSIM technology not only saves space inside your device but also enables users to switch between multiple carriers or data plans without physically changing SIM cards. It's ideal for international travelers, digital nomads, or anyone looking for a more seamless mobile experience.

Which Phones Support eSIM?

Not all smartphones are eSIM-compatible. However, most modern smartphones from leading brands like Apple, Google, and Samsung support eSIM technology. Here's a list of popular phones that support eSIM:

iPhones

• iPhone XR and later models (iPhone 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 series)
• iPhone SE (2nd generation and later)

Google Pixel

• Pixel 3 and later models (Pixel 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 series)

Samsung Galaxy

• Samsung Galaxy S20 series and later (S20, S21, S22, S23)
• Samsung Galaxy Note 20 series and later
• Samsung Galaxy Z Fold series and Z Flip series

Other Devices

• Some Motorola, Huawei, and Xiaomi devices also support eSIM, but it’s important to verify compatibility for each specific model.

For the full list fo devices, please check “eSIM compatible devices”.

How to Activate eSIM on iPhone

1. Prepare Your eSIM Details

The first step in setting up an eSIM is obtaining the necessary details from your carrier. Here are the two most common ways this happens:

• QR Code: Some carriers will send you a QR code that you can scan to automatically configure your eSIM.
• Manual Activation: If your carrier provides activation details like an SM-DP+ address or an activation code, you may need to manually enter these details into your device.

Once you have the necessary information from your carrier, you can proceed with activation.

2. Setting Up eSIM on iPhone (iOS)

Here's how you can set up an eSIM on your iPhone (running iOS 12.1 or later):

1. Open Settings
   Go to Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data on some devices).

2. Add Cellular Plan
   Tap on Add Cellular Plan.

3. Scan the QR Code
   If your carrier provided you with a QR code, use your iPhone's camera to scan it. Alternatively, tap Enter Details Manually if you're given a manual activation code or details.

4. Follow the Instructions
   Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup. You may be asked to label the plan (e.g., “Personal” or “Work” if you're using multiple eSIMs on one device).

5. Set eSIM as Default
   After activation, you can choose which eSIM will be your default for data, calls, and messages in the settings. This is especially helpful if you’re using multiple eSIMs on your phone.

6. Restart Your Device
   It’s always a good idea to restart your phone after adding a new eSIM to ensure everything works smoothly.

3. Setting Up eSIM on Android (Google Pixel, Samsung, etc.)

For Android devices, the process is similar, but the settings menu can vary slightly between brands. Here's how to do it on Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy devices:

Google Pixel (Pixel 3 and later)

1. Open Settings
   Go to Settings > Network & Internet.

2. Select Mobile Network
   Tap on Mobile Network > Add Carrier.

3. Scan the QR Code
   If your carrier provided a QR code, select Scan QR Code. Alternatively, you can input activation details manually.

4. Activate the eSIM
   Follow the on-screen instructions to activate your eSIM.

5. Set Default eSIM
   You can also choose your preferred eSIM for mobile data, calls, and texts, especially if you have multiple eSIMs on your device.

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4. Troubleshooting eSIM Setup

If you encounter issues when setting up your eSIM, here are a few troubleshooting tips:

• Check Carrier Compatibility: Not all carriers support eSIM, so ensure that your mobile provider supports eSIM technology.
• Restart Your Phone: A restart often helps resolve activation issues.
• Update Your Device: Ensure that your phone’s operating system is up-to-date, as newer versions of iOS and Android may offer better support for eSIMs.
• Verify the QR Code: If you’re scanning a QR code, make sure it’s from your carrier and hasn’t expired.