Before you start
- An eSIM-compatible phone that isn’t locked to another network
- An eSIM QR code or activation details from your carrier
- Wi-Fi or mobile data during setup
Method 1 Check that your phone supports eSIM
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Step 1: Look for an EID
Open the phone app and dial *#06#. If an EID (a long number) appears next to your IMEI, the phone supports eSIM.
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Step 2: Check the model
iPhone XS, XR and later support eSIM, and iPhone 14 and later models sold in the US have no SIM tray at all. Most Samsung Galaxy S, Z and recent A-series phones and Google Pixel 3 and later support it, but some regional models don’t.
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Step 3: Make sure the phone is unlocked
If the phone was bought from one carrier, it may only accept that carrier’s eSIM until it’s unlocked.
Method 2 Set up an eSIM on iPhone
Moving to a new iPhone? With eSIM Quick Transfer (iOS 18.4 or later on both phones, if your carrier supports it), keep both iPhones nearby with Bluetooth on and choose Transfer from Nearby iPhone under Add eSIM.
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Step 1: Get the eSIM from your carrier
Ask for an eSIM in-store, online or in the carrier’s app. You’ll receive a QR code, a link or a prompt on your iPhone.
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Step 2: Scan the QR code
Go to Settings > Cellular (called Mobile Service or Mobile Data in some regions) > Add eSIM > Use QR Code and scan the code. On iOS 17.4 or later, you can also touch and hold a QR code in an email and tap Add eSIM.
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Step 3: Or accept a carrier prompt
If your carrier assigned the eSIM to your iPhone, a Carrier Cellular Plan Ready to Be Installed notice appears at the top of Settings. Tap it and follow the steps.
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Step 4: Label and choose your lines
If you also have another SIM, name each line (for example Personal and Travel) and choose which one to use for calls, messages and mobile data.
Method 3 Set up an eSIM on Samsung Galaxy
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Step 1: Open SIM manager
Go to Settings > Connections > SIM manager and tap Add eSIM.
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Step 2: Scan or enter the code
Tap Scan QR code and scan the code from your carrier. If you have an activation code instead, tap Enter activation code.
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Step 3: Turn on the line
Confirm, wait for the download, then make sure the new eSIM is switched on in SIM manager.
Method 4 Set up an eSIM on Google Pixel
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Step 1: Open SIM settings
Go to Settings > Network & internet > SIMs and tap Add SIM (or the + icon).
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Step 2: Choose to set up an eSIM
Tap Set up an eSIM (or Download a SIM instead?), then scan the QR code from your carrier.
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Step 3: Activate
Follow the prompts to activate the line and choose it for calls, texts and data.
Troubleshooting
“This code is no longer valid” when scanning
Each eSIM QR code usually works only once. Ask your carrier for a new one.
The eSIM shows “No Service”
Restart the phone, make sure the line is switched on, and check that mobile data and roaming settings are correct for that line. Then contact your carrier to confirm the eSIM is active.
The Add eSIM option is missing
Your model or region may not support eSIM, or the phone is locked to another carrier. Update the phone’s software and check with your carrier.
Frequently asked questions
Can I switch my physical SIM to an eSIM?
Yes, if your carrier allows it. On iPhone, go to Settings > Cellular, tap your line and look for Convert to eSIM. On Android, ask your carrier for an eSIM swap; they’ll send a QR code.
Can I use an eSIM and a physical SIM together?
Yes. Most eSIM phones support dual SIM, so you can use one of each, or two eSIMs, at the same time.
Is eSIM safer than a SIM card?
It can’t be removed and put into another phone if your phone is stolen. Set a SIM PIN and a strong screen lock either way.
Summary
Check for an EID with *#06#, get an eSIM from your carrier, then add it in Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM (iPhone), SIM manager > Add eSIM (Samsung) or Network & internet > SIMs (Pixel). Keep the line switched on and restart if it doesn’t connect straight away.
