eSIM Cards

Using an eSIM on Google Pixel: How to activate it?

Wondering how to activate an eSIM on your Google Pixel device? Here you will learn everything you need to know to make it in a few seconds!

cintia

Written by Cintia Soto Tomeu

Updated: Mar 26, 2025
Advertising Disclosure
Roami was founded to serve as a trusted resource for travelers in need of reliable internet solutions abroad. Our team, comprising avid travelers, provides comprehensive reviews and guidance on data SIM cards, eSIMs, pocket WiFi devices, and free WiFi apps, drawing from firsthand usage during our travels.

The 5 Best eSIM Providers for Travel

1
Holafly unlimited data plans in popular destinations, ideal for seamless travel
2
Ubigi reliable high-speed eSIMs in 190+ countries, great for business or frequent travel
3
Nomad flexible pay-as-you-go data for easy trave
4
BNESIM custom data and call bundles for long-term travelers
5
Airalo affordable eSIM options and solid value for most travelers

Travelers love to capture memories with Google Pixel. Whether snapping cityscapes at night or scenic landscapes, what’s not enjoyable is struggling to upload photos or facing difficulties using cloud-based editing tools. That’s why having a stable data plan is essential. Say goodbye to physical SIM cards and hello to eSIM.

You can simply activate an eSIM by just scanning the QR code. Not all Google devices support eSIM, so keep in mind to check the compatibility with eSIM. Make sure to activate roaming if you are traveling abroad. Multiple eSIMs or a combination of an eSIM and a physical SIM can be kept in one device.

Want to know how to use eSIM on your Google Pixel? This guide walks you through how eSIM works, compatible Pixel models, and the steps to activate it on your device.

How does eSIM work on a Pixel Device?

Wondering what an eSIM is? In case you haven’t heard about this service, there’s no need to worry about that. It's completely normal for travelers to have doubts, and we are here to explain all that and how it works too.

eSIMs are basically the same thing as a SIM cards. Yes, there are some main differences between them both, especially the fact that the eSIM is completely digital, and it is activated through a QR code.

Other than that, we can tell eSIMs have a pretty similar service to SIM cards. They offer cellular data, which happens to be the most important thing for users. It is pretty easy to understand what it is and how it works!

Which Google Pixel are compatible with eSIM?

When we talk about Google Pixel devices, we have to remember that there are different options out there available for people to use. But, the first thing to know here is the fact that when using an eSIM, people must have access to a last-gen device, so probably not every single Google device will properly work.

Other than that, here’s the list of devices that support an eSIM:

  • Google Pixel 5
  • Google Pixel 4
  • Google Pixel 4a
  • Google Pixel 3
  • Google Pixel 3a
  • Google Pixel 2 (Only with Google Fi service)

How to activate an eSIM on a Google Pixel device?

When activating an eSIM, the steps to follow are pretty easy. Here’s the step-by-step guide you need to follow.

1. Go to the “Settings” menu on your Google Pixel device.

2. Once there, find the “Network & Internet” menu.

3. Find the “Mobile Network” option and click on it.

4. Press on the “+” button to add a new eSIM.

5. Click on the “Download a SIM instead?” option to continue the process.

6. Once the message “Use 2 SIMs?” show up press the yes option.

7. Tap Next to download the new eSIM

8. Next, scan the QR code provided by the company where you purchased your eSIM.

9. The eSIM will be now activated on your Google Pixel device.

Two things you need to remember to do after the activation process is done are: to have a prior internet connection to complete the process and activate the roaming service when traveling. These options are a must and people can’t forget it, when using an eSIM.

Other than what we just said, it is fair to remember that people can only use one eSIM simultaneously on their devices. People can still add more eSIMs to their device, but then they will need to swap from one to the other to actually use the eSIM you prefer.

Another thing we have to mention is the fact people can still use their SIM card when using an eSIM card. This means that they can also switch from their eSIM to their SIM card in a matter of seconds if needed, but the roaming price is a bit higher.

This information can be beneficial in the case that you have no cellular data left on your device, and you need to use a different alternative. 

After all this information, you can now start to use your eSIM and enjoy your trip!

Can you have multiple eSIM on a Google Pixel device?

Yes! As for now, people can store more than one eSIM on their devices. As we mentioned before, people can only use one eSIM at a time, but that doesn’t mean they can’t change from the one they prefer to use in a few seconds. 

To achieve this, we encourage people to change the name of their eSIMs, so they can tell which one they are using. And, the best thing is, the SIM card on your cellphone won’t stop working at any time!

Up to this point, we can only tell you that you are now ready to grab your Google Pixel device and get an eSIM to use while traveling. As long as you use the guide we just left for you, you will be able to complete the process in a few minutes!

Adventurer, passionate traveler, and tech enthusiast. On Roami, I aim at sharing the best solutions to help you navigate the complexities of staying connected abroad, ensuring a hassle-free experience. I enjoy playing chess, reading Brian Greene, and exploring different cultures!

Best eSIM offers
We did the work, you just click.
Check Arrow
Best eSIM offers
We did the work, you just click.
Check Arrow
Best eSIM offers
We did the work, you just click.
Check Arrow
Join Our Newsletter — we’ll send you a nice letter once per week. No spam.

    By signing up, you agree to receive marketing emails from Roami. For more details, check out our Privacy Policy.
    cross