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Step-by-Step eSIM Setup

Install an eSIM on iPhone and Android in minutes. QR scan, manual entry, and the mistakes everyone makes.

Before You Start

  • You need WiFi to download the eSIM profile. Do this before you leave the airport or hotel WiFi.
  • Screenshot your QR code. If the scan fails, you'll need it.
  • Your phone must be unlocked (no carrier SIM lock).
  • iOS 12.1+ or Android 9+ required.

iPhone Setup (iOS 17+)

  1. Open Settings → Cellular/Mobile Data
  2. Tap "Add eSIM"
  3. Point camera at QR code
  4. Tap "Continue" on the "Activate eSIM" screen
  5. Label your eSIM (e.g., "Japan Travel")
  6. Set Default Line: choose your primary SIM for calls, eSIM for data
  7. Turn OFF "Allow Cellular Data Switching"
  8. Wait for activation (usually 30-60 seconds)
  9. Turn ON Data Roaming for the eSIM

Android Setup (Samsung, Google Pixel)

  1. Open Settings → Connections → SIM Manager
  2. Tap "Add eSIM"
  3. Scan QR code or tap "Enter details manually"
  4. Follow prompts to download profile
  5. Set preferred SIM for data (choose eSIM)
  6. Set preferred SIM for calls/texts (choose physical SIM)
  7. Turn OFF "Data switching"
  8. Turn ON Data Roaming for the eSIM

Note: Samsung and Pixel menus differ slightly. The steps above cover both.

Manual Entry (If QR Scan Fails)

The QR code contains a URL. If your camera won't scan it:

  • On iPhone: Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → "Use QR Code" → "Enter Details Manually"
  • On Android: Settings → SIM Manager → Add eSIM → "Enter details manually"
  • You'll need the SM-DP+ address and activation code (both in your order confirmation)
  • Copy-paste these. Don't type them. One wrong character and it won't work.

After Installation — The 3 Things Everyone Forgets

  1. Turn on Data Roaming. This is the #1 reason eSIMs don't work. Settings → tap your eSIM → Data Roaming ON.
  2. Set eSIM as data line. If your phone is still using your primary SIM for data, you're racking up roaming charges.
  3. Wait until you arrive. Some eSIMs only activate in the destination country. Installing at home? It'll sit at "Activating..." until you land.

How to Switch Between eSIMs

  • You can store multiple eSIMs on your phone (most support 5-10)
  • Settings → Cellular → tap the eSIM you want to use → "Turn On This Line"
  • Only one eSIM can be active for data at a time
  • You can have multiple eSIMs installed and toggle between them

How to Delete an Old eSIM

  • Settings → Cellular → tap the eSIM → "Delete eSIM" (iOS) or "Remove" (Android)
  • This frees up a slot for a new eSIM
  • Deleting an eSIM is permanent. You can't re-download it without buying a new plan.

Troubleshooting Common Setup Issues

  • "Unable to Activate eSIM" → check WiFi connection, try again
  • "Code Expired" → the activation code is single-use. Contact support for a new one.
  • "eSIM Not Supported" → your phone is carrier-locked. Contact your carrier to unlock.
  • "Cellular Plan Cannot Be Added" → you've hit the profile limit. Delete an old eSIM first.

Key Takeaways

  • Install on WiFi before you leave the airport
  • Turn ON Data Roaming — this is the #1 fix
  • Screenshot your QR code before scanning
  • Set eSIM as data line, primary SIM as voice line
  • Delete old eSIMs to free up slots
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