What You Need
Setting up an eSIM takes 2–5 minutes. Before you start, make sure you have the following:
- A phone that supports eSIM (iPhone XS or later, Samsung Galaxy S20 or later, Google Pixel 3 or later, most flagships from 2020 onward)
- A Wi-Fi or cellular data connection for the initial setup (you need internet to download the eSIM profile)
- The QR code or activation link from your carrier or eSIM provider
- Your carrier account information if you're converting an existing physical SIM to eSIM
iPhone 14 and later (U.S. models) don't have a physical SIM tray at all — they're eSIM only. If you have one of these phones, you're already using eSIM for your primary carrier.
iPhone eSIM Setup
Method 1: QR Code (Most Common)
- Open Settings → Cellular (or Mobile Data in some regions)
- Tap Add eSIM (or Set Up Cellular on older iOS versions)
- Select Use QR Code
- Point your camera at the QR code provided by your carrier or eSIM provider
- Your phone downloads and installs the eSIM profile — wait for it to complete
- Label the new plan (e.g., "Travel," "Work," or the carrier name) to keep things organized
- Choose which line to use for cellular data, calls, and messages if you have multiple lines
Method 2: eSIM Quick Transfer (iPhone to iPhone)
If you're switching from one iPhone to another, iOS can transfer your eSIM automatically during the device setup process. When setting up the new iPhone, select "Transfer from Nearby iPhone" and follow the prompts. Your carrier's eSIM profile moves to the new device without needing a new QR code.
Method 3: Carrier App Activation
Some carriers (including T-Mobile and Verizon) let you activate an eSIM directly through their app without scanning a QR code. Open your carrier's app, look for an option to activate or add a line via eSIM, and follow the in-app instructions.
Android eSIM Setup
The exact menu path varies slightly between Samsung, Pixel, and other Android manufacturers, but the process is similar across all devices.
Samsung Galaxy
- Open Settings → Connections → SIM Manager
- Tap Add eSIM
- Select Scan QR code from service provider
- Point your camera at the QR code
- Follow the prompts to download and activate the profile
- Name the eSIM and set your preferred data line
Google Pixel
- Open Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs
- Tap the + icon or Add SIM
- Select Download a SIM instead
- Scan the QR code or enter the activation details manually
- Wait for the profile to download and confirm activation
Other Android Phones
Most Android phones from 2020 onward follow a similar pattern: Settings → Network/Connections → SIM → Add eSIM → Scan QR code. If you can't find the option, search "eSIM" in your Settings search bar.
Setting Up Dual SIM
Dual SIM lets you run two phone lines simultaneously on one device — for example, your primary carrier plus a travel eSIM, or a personal number plus a work number. Here's how to configure it:
iPhone Dual SIM
Go to Settings → Cellular. You'll see both lines listed. Tap each line to configure:
- Default Voice Line: Which number is used for outgoing calls
- Cellular Data: Which line handles data (you can only use one at a time for data)
- iMessage & FaceTime: Which number is associated with these services
You can also set per-contact line preferences — useful if you want work contacts to ring on your work line and personal contacts on your personal line.
Android Dual SIM
Go to Settings → SIM Manager (Samsung) or Settings → Network → SIMs (Pixel). Select the preferred SIM for calls, texts, and data. Most Android phones let you set a default data SIM and choose the calling SIM on a per-call basis.
Installing a Travel eSIM
Travel eSIMs from providers like Airalo, Saily, and Holafly follow the same QR code installation process as carrier eSIMs. A few travel-specific tips:
- Install before your trip. Buy and install the eSIM while you're still at home with a reliable Wi-Fi connection. Don't wait until you're at the airport.
- Don't activate yet. Most travel eSIMs start counting your data or validity period from the moment you connect to a network in the destination country. Install the profile but keep it inactive until you land.
- Set your home carrier as the default for calls/texts. Your travel eSIM is data-only. Keep your home carrier's line active for incoming calls and texts.
- Set the travel eSIM as your data line once you arrive. Go to Settings → Cellular (iPhone) or SIM Manager (Android) and switch your cellular data to the travel eSIM.
Managing Multiple eSIM Profiles
Modern phones can store multiple eSIM profiles simultaneously. iPhones support up to 8 stored profiles (with 2 active at once). Android phones vary but most support at least 2.
To manage your stored profiles:
- iPhone: Settings → Cellular — all stored profiles are listed. Toggle each one on or off. Delete old travel profiles you no longer need.
- Android: Settings → SIM Manager or Network → SIMs — manage, enable, disable, or delete profiles.
It's good practice to delete travel eSIM profiles after your trip if they've expired. Keeping too many unused profiles can occasionally cause confusion when your phone tries to connect to networks.
Common Issues and Fixes
QR Code Won't Scan
Make sure you're in a well-lit area and the QR code is displayed clearly (not distorted or partially obscured). If scanning from a screen, increase the brightness. Some eSIM providers also offer manual activation codes you can enter instead of scanning.
eSIM Won't Activate
- Confirm you have a working internet connection (Wi-Fi or cellular) — the phone needs to download the profile
- Restart your phone and try the installation again
- Check that your phone supports eSIM and hasn't reached its storage limit
- Contact your eSIM provider's support — activation issues are their most common support request and they can often resolve it remotely
No Data After Installation
The eSIM may be installed but not set as your active data line. Go to Settings → Cellular (iPhone) or SIM Manager (Android) and make sure the new eSIM is selected for cellular data. Also verify that data roaming is enabled if you're using a travel eSIM abroad.
Can't Remove an Old eSIM
On iPhone, go to Settings → Cellular, tap the profile you want to remove, and select "Delete eSIM." On Android, go to SIM Manager, tap the eSIM, and select Remove or Delete. Note that deleting an eSIM is permanent — you'll need a new QR code or activation to reinstall it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I convert my physical SIM to an eSIM?
Yes. Most major carriers (T-Mobile, AT&T, Verizon) let you convert your existing physical SIM to an eSIM through their app or by visiting a store. The process takes about 5 minutes, and your phone number transfers to the eSIM.
How many eSIMs can I have on my phone?
iPhones (XS and later) can store up to 8 eSIM profiles, with 2 active at a time. Android phones vary — most support at least 2 stored profiles. You can delete old profiles to make room for new ones.
Will setting up an eSIM erase my phone?
No. Installing an eSIM is just adding a cellular profile to your phone. It doesn't affect your photos, apps, contacts, or any other data.
Do I need Wi-Fi to set up an eSIM?
You need an internet connection to download the eSIM profile — either Wi-Fi or an existing cellular data connection. Once installed, the eSIM works independently.
Can I use an eSIM and a physical SIM at the same time?
Yes, on phones that support it. Most modern smartphones allow Dual SIM — one physical SIM and one eSIM (or two eSIMs on eSIM-only phones like the iPhone 14+ U.S. models). Both lines can be active simultaneously.