How to install and activate eSIM on iPhone and Android (2025)

If you have an eSIM-compatible phone and want to start using your eSIM for mobile data, calls, and texts, you’ve come to the right place. This article explains how to activate eSIM on your iPhone or Android phone step by step.

Before you begin, verify your device’s compatibility, as support may vary by device model and region. Keep in mind as well that locked phones, budget or replica devices, and older models may not include the eSIM settings needed to activate your eSIM.

We’ve also included tips on activating dual SIM, transferring your eSIM to a different phone, and troubleshooting common activation errors. Plus, we answer some frequently asked questions about eSIM setup to help you get connected with ease.

How to install eSIM on iPhone

There are two main ways to install an eSIM on your iPhone: via a QR code or through manual setup.

1. eSIM QR code setup

1. Open Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM.
2. Scan the QR code from your email or provider app. Make sure your camera is steady and fully captures the code.
3. Approve the plan download when prompted.
4. Label the line to easily identify it later (for example, Travel, Work, or Personal).
5. Turn Roaming on for this line if you plan to use it abroad.
6. Choose the eSIM as your mobile data line if you have multiple lines.

2. Manual setup

1. Open Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM and select Enter Details Manually.
2. Enter the SM-DP+ address and activation code provided in your email or app.
3. Confirm the plan download.
4. Enable the line for mobile data, turn Roaming on, and make sure Network Auto-Select is enabled.

How to install eSIM on Android

Installing an eSIM on an Android phone can vary slightly depending on your device and Android version, but the general process is similar across most modern Android phones.

1. eSIM QR code setup

1. Open Settings > Network & Internet (or Connections) > SIM cards > Add mobile plan.
2. Scan the QR code from your email or provider’s app. Make sure your camera captures the full code.
3. Approve the plan download when prompted.
4. Label the line to easily identify it (for example, Travel, Work, or Personal).
5. Turn Roaming on if you plan to use the eSIM abroad.
6. Select the eSIM as your mobile data line if you have multiple SIMs.

2. Manual setup

1. Open Settings > Network & Internet (or Connections) > SIM cards > Add mobile plan and look for an option like Enter activation code manually or Add carrier manually.
2. Enter the SM-DP+ address and activation code provided by your carrier or app.
3. Confirm the plan download.
4. Enable the line for mobile data, turn Roaming on, and make sure Network Auto-Select is enabled.

Activate dual SIM

With dual SIM, you can use two mobile lines on one phone, usually a combination of a physical SIM and an eSIM. This means you can keep work and personal numbers separate, use a local data plan when traveling, or switch between carriers for better coverage.

How to use dual SIM:

1. Make sure your phone supports dual SIM.
2. Install your physical SIM and activate your eSIM.
3. Label your lines so you know which is which (like Work or Personal).
4. Choose which line you want to use for mobile data, calls, and texts.
5. Turn on roaming for the line you’ll use abroad.
6. Switch between lines for calls, texts, or data anytime in your phone’s settings.

How to download eSIM (QR vs manual)

When downloading your eSIM, it’s best to install it before your journey so everything is ready when you land. The eSIM itself is added to your phone, but activation typically happens after you arrive at your destination.

Depending on your device, the interface may look slightly different. You might see options like Add eSIM, Download a SIM instead, or Manage eSIM, depending on your phone’s brand and software.

General rules for QR/email installation:

• Keep your QR code or activation details handy before you travel.
• Make sure your phone is connected to WiFi when scanning or entering details.
• Follow the on-screen prompts to approve the plan download.
• Label your eSIM line (for example, Travel, Work, or Personal) for easy management.
• Turn on Mobile Data and Roaming for the eSIM line once activated.

Whether you use a QR code or manual setup, these steps will get your eSIM ready to use for mobile data, calls, and texts as soon as you land.

Can I transfer my eSIM to a different phone?

Yes, you can transfer your eSIM to another phone, but it’s important to follow the proper steps to avoid activation issues. Your new phone must support eSIM and be unlocked.

Keep in mind that simply deleting the eSIM from your old phone may not be enough. Some carriers require deactivation through their app or customer support.

How to safely transfer your eSIM:

• Make sure your new phone supports eSIM.
• Deactivate the eSIM on your old phone using your carrier’s recommended method.
• Add the eSIM to your new phone using the QR code or activation details provided.
• Turn on mobile data and confirm that calls, texts, and internet are working.

Activation errors and quick fixes

Sometimes, your eSIM might not activate immediately, or you may encounter errors during installation. These issues are usually easy to resolve with a few quick checks.

Common activation problems include:

• The eSIM won’t download or install.
• Mobile data or calls don’t work after activation.
• Your phone can’t detect the new eSIM.
• QR code or manual activation details aren’t recognized.

Quick fixes:

• Make sure your phone is eSIM-compatible, not carrier locked, and running the latest software version.
• Verify your QR code or activation details are correct and not expired.
• Check that you have a stable internet connection (Wi-Fi is usually best during activation).
• Restart your phone and try activating the eSIM again.
• Ensure the eSIM line is selected for mobile data and roaming is enabled if needed.

If the problem persists, contact your carrier or eSIM provider for support. They can reissue activation details or help troubleshoot specific errors.