How to Activate eSIM: Step‑by‑Step Guide for iPhone & Android

Transitioning from a physical SIM to an eSIM is a significant upgrade for your mobile experience. If you're wondering how to activate an eSIM, you've come to the right place. This comprehensive guide of Bitjoy breaks down the process into simple, actionable steps for both iPhone and Android devices, ensuring you can get your new digital cellular plan running smoothly.

What is eSIM and why use it?

An eSIM is a modern evolution of the traditional SIM card. Instead of a removable plastic chip, an eSIM is a small, programmable chip built directly into your phone's motherboard. It holds all the necessary information to connect you to a carrier's network, just like a physical SIM, but offers far greater flexibility and convenience.

Choosing a device with eSIM technology unlocks several powerful benefits:

• Instant Activation: Forget waiting for a physical SIM card to arrive in the mail or visiting a store. You can purchase and activate a cellular plan from anywhere, as long as you have a Wi-Fi connection to download the eSIM profile from your carrier.
• Enhanced Flexibility and Control: An eSIM allows you to store multiple cellular plans on a single device. You can easily switch between them through your phone's settings, making it simple to toggle between a personal line and a business line, for example.
• Seamless Global Travel: For travelers, eSIMs are a game-changer. You can keep your primary number active while adding a local data plan in a new country. This helps you avoid expensive roaming charges without the hassle of finding and swapping physical SIM cards.
• Improved Device Security: Since an eSIM cannot be physically removed from your phone, it adds a layer of security. If your phone is lost or stolen, thieves cannot simply take out the SIM card to disable its cellular connection or use it in another device.

How to check if your device supports eSIM

This is the critical first step. Before purchasing an eSIM plan, you must verify that your smartphone is compatible. Wasting time and money on a plan your phone can't use is frustrating. Fortunately, most flagship phones released since 2018 include eSIM support. Here are the most reliable methods to check.

For iPhone users: 

The check is straightforward. Navigate to Settings > General > About. Scroll down through the device information. If you see a category labeled "EID" (Embedded Identity Document), your iPhone is equipped with an eSIM and ready for activation. If you don't see an EID, your device does not support eSIM.

For Android users: 

The path can differ slightly depending on the manufacturer, but the principle is the same.

• On Samsung devices: Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager (or SIM card manager). If the option "Add eSIM" is visible, your phone is compatible.
• On Google Pixel devices: Open Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs. Tap the + button to add a network. If you see the option Download a SIM instead?, your Pixel supports eSIM.

The Universal Dial Code Method: 

This is a quick and universal check for almost any phone. Open your phone's dialer app as if you were making a call and type in the code *#06#. A screen will appear showing your device's identifiers, including the IMEI. If an "EID" number is listed on this screen, your device has an eSIM.

How to activate eSIM on iPhone

Activating an eSIM on an iPhone is designed to be an intuitive process. To ensure it goes smoothly, make sure you are connected to a stable Wi-Fi network, as your phone needs internet access to download and install the eSIM profile from the carrier's servers.

Using QR code from carrier

This is the most common and widely supported method for eSIM activation. Your new carrier will provide a unique QR code after you sign up for a plan, usually via email, on their customer portal, or on a physical activation card.

1. Unlock your iPhone and open the Settings app.
2. Tap on Cellular or Mobile Data.
3. Select Add eSIM or Add Cellular Plan.
4. Choose the option Use QR Code. Your camera will activate.
5. Carefully align the camera with the QR code provided by your carrier. Hold it steady until your iPhone recognizes the code.
6. A screen will appear confirming "A cellular plan from [Carrier Name] is ready to be added". Tap Continue.
7. Follow the final on-screen prompts. This may include labeling your new eSIM (e.g., Personal, Business, Travel) and choosing which line to use for calls, messages, and mobile data.

Using Carrier Activation or Quick Transfer (iOS 19+)

For users with newer iPhones, Apple and its partner carriers have made the process even simpler, sometimes eliminating the need for a QR code entirely.

• Carrier Activation: Some carriers support a push-based activation. After purchasing a plan, a notification might automatically appear on your iPhone stating "Carrier Cellular Plan Ready to Be Installed." Simply tap this notification and follow the instructions to install the eSIM without any scanning.
• Quick Transfer: If you are upgrading to a new iPhone, you can wirelessly transfer your existing number (whether it's on a physical SIM or an old eSIM) to an eSIM on your new device. During the initial setup of your new iPhone, you'll be prompted to transfer your cellular plan. Ensure both devices are running iOS 16 or later, are unlocked, have Bluetooth turned on, and are physically close to each other.

How to activate eSIM on Android

The activation process on Android is very similar to iPhone, with the main difference being the specific menu names within the Settings app, which vary by manufacturer (like Samsung, Google, etc.). A stable Wi-Fi connection is just as critical here for downloading the eSIM profile.

Scanning QR code via Settings

The QR code method remains the standard for most Android phones. Your carrier will provide the code needed for this process.

1. Open your phone's Settings menu.
2. Navigate to the network section. This is typically Network & Internet or Connections.
3. Tap on SIMs or SIM Manager.
4. Select Add eSIM or the + icon to add a new plan.
5. Your phone will ask how you want to add the network. Choose Scan QR code from service provider.
6. Point your camera at the QR code and wait for it to scan successfully.
7. Confirm the plan details when prompted and follow the final steps to complete the activation.

Manual installation with SM-DP+ details

In cases where the QR code fails to scan or is not provided, you can use the manual activation method. Your carrier must supply you with two key pieces of information: the SM-DP+ Address and an Activation Code.

1. Follow steps 1-4 from the section above to reach the "Add eSIM" screen.
2. Instead of scanning, look for a link or button that says Enter activation code or Enter manually.
3. You will see two fields:

• SM-DP+ Address: This is a server address. Copy and paste it exactly as provided.
• Activation Code: This is a unique string of letters and numbers.

4. Carefully enter both details and tap Continue or Activate to securely download and install your eSIM profile.

On Samsung devices

Samsung Galaxy devices have a very clear and consistent path for managing SIMs, making eSIM activation straightforward.

1. Open Settings and go to Connections.
2. Tap on SIM Manager.
3. Tap Add eSIM.
4. The device will search for plans from your operator. You can then select Scan QR code and proceed as described above.

On Google Pixel devices

Google Pixel phones, known for their clean Android experience, also have a simple process.

1. Open Settings and go to Network & Internet.
2. Tap on SIMs.
3. Tap the + Add a SIM button.
4. On the "Connect to mobile network" screen, select Download a SIM instead?.
5. Tap Next, and you will be taken to a screen where you can scan your carrier's QR code to begin the activation.

Carrier-specific activation instructions

While the general activation process is similar across the board, some major carriers have streamlined methods or specific requirements. Here’s a look at how to activate your eSIM with a few popular providers.

Verizon setup

Verizon offers a straightforward digital process for its customers. You can typically activate your service without needing to scan a QR code.

• Primary Method: During the setup of a new phone, you will usually be prompted to activate your Verizon eSIM automatically.
• Via My Verizon App: If you need to activate later, the easiest way is through the My Verizon app or by logging into your account on the Verizon website. They provide a dedicated workflow that guides you through the steps.
• In-store or Phone Support: If you encounter issues, Verizon support can push the eSIM profile to your device remotely or assist you in-store.

AT&T Prepaid eSIM activation

The provided reference links do not contain specific instructions for AT&T Prepaid. However, the process generally aligns with industry standards. You would typically receive a QR code from AT&T upon purchasing a prepaid plan, which you can then scan using the Add eSIM function in your phone's cellular settings. For precise steps, consulting the official AT&T Prepaid support page is recommended.

Google Fi activation steps

Similarly, detailed steps for Google Fi are not in the provided sources. As a digital-first carrier, Google Fi's activation is heavily integrated with its app. The standard procedure involves:

1. Downloading the Google Fi app.
2. Signing in and following the on-screen instructions to download your eSIM profile directly.

eSIM activation for travel and international use

eSIMs are ideal for international travelers wanting to avoid high roaming costs. The process is simple:

1. Purchase a Plan: Before you travel, buy a data plan from a global eSIM provider. You will typically receive a QR code via email immediately after purchase.
2. Install the Profile: Connect to Wi-Fi and scan the QR code to install the travel eSIM profile on your phone. You can do this at home before you leave.
3. Activate Upon Arrival: When you land at your destination, go to your phone's cellular settings. Turn on the travel eSIM and set it as the primary line for mobile data. This allows you to use affordable local data while keeping your main number active for calls and texts.

Transferring or moving an eSIM

Moving an eSIM to a new phone requires a different process than swapping a physical SIM card.

• iPhone to iPhone: If both devices are running iOS 16 or later, Apple’s Quick Start process allows for a direct, wireless transfer of your eSIM. Simply keep both phones close together and follow the on-screen prompts during setup.
• Android and Other Transfers: For most other scenarios, you must contact your carrier. They will deactivate the eSIM on your old phone and issue a new QR code to activate service on your new device. An eSIM QR code is for one-time use and cannot be reused.

Troubleshooting common eSIM activation issues

If you encounter a problem during activation, these common issues and solutions may help.

QR code scanning problems

If your phone won't scan the QR code, first check the basics:

• You must be connected to a stable Wi-Fi network.
• Ensure the camera lens is clean and the QR code is clear and well-lit.
• If scanning still fails, opt for manual activation. Use the SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code provided by your carrier.

Activation delays or carrier-side errors

If the QR code scans but the activation gets stuck, the issue may be with the network.

• Restart your phone: A simple reboot often resolves the issue.
• Toggle Airplane Mode: Turn it on for 30 seconds, then off to reset the network connection.
• Be patient: It can sometimes take a few minutes for the carrier's system to fully provision the eSIM.
• Contact support: If the problem persists for more than 15-20 minutes, contact your carrier's support team for assistance.

Benefits and drawbacks of using eSIM

eSIM technology is powerful, but it has both pros and cons.

Convenience and travel flexibility

The advantages are significant. eSIMs offer instant digital activation, the ability to store multiple plans on one device for easy switching, and a secure, hassle-free way to get affordable data while traveling internationally.

Limitations and device compatibility issues

The primary drawbacks are related to hardware and support.

• Device Compatibility: Not all phones support eSIM technology. It is mainly found on newer, flagship models.
• Carrier Adoption: While growing, not every carrier in every country offers eSIM service yet.
• Troubleshooting: You cannot physically remove an eSIM to test it in another phone, making it harder to diagnose certain hardware issues without contacting your carrier.

Ultimately, understanding how to activate an eSIM is the key to unlocking a more flexible and convenient mobile future. Whether you're using a QR code on an iPhone or a carrier's app on your Android device, the process is now more accessible than ever. With this step-by-step guide, you're fully equipped to ditch the physical card and embrace the benefits of digital SIM technology.