How to Install an eSIM on iPhone and Android

Install a travel eSIM while you still have reliable Wi-Fi and access to the confirmation email or account that contains the QR code. The exact menu wording varies by phone model, operating-system version and carrier, but the safe preparation is the same.

Do not delete an eSIM profile while troubleshooting unless the provider confirms it can be downloaded again. Some activation codes are intended for one installation only.

Before you start

• Confirm the exact phone model supports eSIM and is not network locked.

• Connect the phone to stable Wi-Fi and update its operating system.

• Display the QR code on another device or keep manual activation details available.

• Read the plan activation policy so validity does not begin earlier than intended.

• Keep the home SIM settings unchanged until the new profile is installed.

Use the Skyalo device compatibility checker when you are unsure about a manufacturer, exact model or regional variant.

Before choosing a plan, check whether your phone supports eSIM, choose the right data amount, and keep the iPhone or Android setup guide handy.

Install an eSIM on iPhone

• Open Settings and choose Cellular or Mobile Data.

• Tap Add eSIM or Set Up Mobile.

• Choose Use QR Code, scan the provider code and follow the confirmation prompts.

• Give the new line a clear label such as Travel or the destination name.

• Select the new eSIM for mobile data only when you are ready to use the plan.

Apple also supports carrier activation, provider links, provider apps, manual details and eligible transfers. Follow the current Apple eSIM setup instructions if the QR-code option does not match what your carrier supplied.

Install an eSIM on Google Pixel

• Open Settings and choose Network & internet.

• Tap SIMs, then Add SIM.

• Choose Set up an eSIM and follow the onscreen instructions.

• Scan the QR code or use the activation method offered by the provider.

• Label the profile and review which SIM handles mobile data, calls and SMS.

Google notes that menu availability depends on the phone and carrier. See the official Pixel eSIM setup guide for the current flow.

Install an eSIM on Samsung Galaxy

• Open Settings and choose Connections.

• Tap SIM manager, then Add eSIM.

• Scan the QR code or choose another supported activation option.

• Name the plan and choose it for mobile data when activation should begin.

• Check data-roaming instructions supplied with the travel plan.

Samsung menu names can vary by region and software version. The official Samsung SIM and eSIM instructions describe the current SIM manager path.

Configure the phone for travel

• Set the travel eSIM as the mobile-data line.

• Follow the provider instruction for data roaming on the eSIM line.

• Disable automatic mobile-data switching to the home SIM.

• Keep the home line active only when you need its calls or SMS.

• Turn off cloud backups or app updates on mobile data if the allowance is limited.

If the eSIM does not connect

Confirm the plan is installed and turned on, the correct line is selected for data, and the phone is in a supported destination. Toggle airplane mode, restart the phone and allow a few minutes for the first network registration. Check any APN instructions supplied with the plan.

If the profile is present but service still fails, record the phone model, location and visible error before contacting support. Do not repeatedly scan the same code or delete the profile unless instructed.