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How to Install eSIM on Android: Complete Setup Guide

Technical Guide • 14 min read

TL;DR

  • eSIM works on Android 9+ (most Samsung Galaxy S20+, Pixel 3+, OnePlus 11+, etc.)
  • Phone must be carrier unlocked - check Settings > About Phone > IMEI
  • Two installation methods: QR code (easiest) or manual entry (advanced)
  • Process takes 2-5 minutes: Scan QR → Download profile → Enable eSIM
  • You can have 5-10 eSIM profiles stored, but only 1-2 active simultaneously
  • Common issues: Carrier lock, no WiFi during setup, incompatible device

What You Need Before Starting

Pre-Installation Checklist

  1. eSIM-compatible Android device (see full list below)
  2. Carrier-unlocked phone (not locked to AT&T, Verizon, etc.)
  3. WiFi or cellular data connection (required to download eSIM profile)
  4. eSIM activation QR code (from your provider like PikaSim)
  5. Android 9.0 or higher (check Settings > About Phone > Android version)

Step 1: Check if Your Phone Supports eSIM

Quick Compatibility Test

  1. Open Settings
  2. Go to Network & Internet (or Connections on Samsung)
  3. Tap SIMs or SIM Card Manager
  4. Look for "Add eSIM" or "Download a SIM"

If you see this option, your phone supports eSIM. If not, check the compatibility list below.

Complete Android eSIM Compatibility List (2025)

Manufacturer Compatible Models Notes
Samsung Galaxy S20/S20+/S20 Ultra, S21/S21+/S21 Ultra, S22/S22+/S22 Ultra, S23/S23+/S23 Ultra, S24/S24+/S24 Ultra, Z Flip/Z Flip 5G, Z Flip3/4/5, Z Fold/Z Fold2/3/4/5 Must be unlocked or international version. US carrier-locked models may not support eSIM
Google Pixel Pixel 3/3 XL/3a/3a XL, Pixel 4/4 XL/4a/4a 5G, Pixel 5/5a, Pixel 6/6 Pro/6a, Pixel 7/7 Pro/7a, Pixel 8/8 Pro, Pixel Fold All models support eSIM. Pixel 3 requires Android 9+
OnePlus OnePlus 11, OnePlus Open Only newest models (2023+). Earlier OnePlus models do NOT support eSIM
Motorola Razr (2019), Razr 5G, Razr 40/40 Ultra, Edge 40 Pro, Edge+ Foldable and flagship models only
Oppo Find X3 Pro, Find X5/X5 Pro, Reno 6/7 Pro 5G, Reno 9/10 Pro+ Primarily international/China models. US variants may lack eSIM
Xiaomi 12T Pro, 13/13 Pro/13 Lite, 14/14 Pro Only recent flagships (2022+). Redmi series does NOT support eSIM
Honor Magic 4 Pro, Magic 5 Pro, Magic V2 Flagship models only
Sony Xperia Xperia 1 IV/V, Xperia 5 IV/V, Xperia 10 III/IV/V 2021+ models only
Huawei P40/P40 Pro (not P40 Lite), Mate 40 Pro Limited eSIM support due to Google Services ban. Not recommended
Budget/Mid-Range Phones WITHOUT eSIM:
  • Samsung Galaxy A-series (A53, A54, etc.) - NO eSIM
  • OnePlus Nord, Nord CE, 10 Pro - NO eSIM (only OnePlus 11+)
  • Xiaomi Redmi series - NO eSIM
  • Nokia smartphones - NO eSIM (as of 2025)
  • Realme phones - NO eSIM

Step 2: Check if Your Phone is Carrier Unlocked

Even if your phone supports eSIM, it MUST be carrier unlocked to use third-party eSIMs.

Method 1: Check IMEI Lock Status

  1. Open Settings
  2. Go to About Phone
  3. Tap IMEI (or Status)
  4. Copy your IMEI number
  5. Visit a free IMEI checker:
  6. Look for "SIM Lock Status" - should say UNLOCKED

Method 2: Check Carrier Settings

Samsung Galaxy:

  1. Open Settings > Connections
  2. Tap More connection settings
  3. Look for Network unlock or SIM card lock
  4. If it shows "Network unlock: ON" or "No SIM lock", you're unlocked

Google Pixel:

  1. Open Settings > About phone
  2. Scroll to IMEI section
  3. If purchased from Google Store unlocked, it's always unlocked
  4. If purchased from carrier (Verizon, AT&T), contact carrier to unlock

How to Unlock Your Phone

Carrier Unlock Requirements How to Request
Verizon (USA) 60 days of service, device paid off Call 1-800-922-0204 or visit Verizon store
AT&T (USA) Device paid off, account in good standing Submit request at att.com/deviceunlock
T-Mobile (USA) 40 days active, device paid off Call 611 from T-Mobile phone or visit store
Vodafone (UK/EU) 30 days after contract end Call customer service or use My Vodafone app
EE (UK) Device paid off Request via My EE app or call 150
O2 (UK) Immediate if PAYG, contract end for pay monthly Text "INFO" to 85075

Step 3: Get Your eSIM Activation Code

You'll receive one of these from your eSIM provider (like PikaSim):

eSIM Activation Formats

  • QR Code - Most common. Sent via email or in app. Looks like a square barcode.
  • SM-DP+ Address + Activation Code - Text string like "LPA:1$sm-dp-plus.gsma.com$ABC123"
  • Carrier App - Some providers (Airalo, Ubigi) have apps that install eSIM automatically

Where to get eSIMs:

  • PikaSim - Anonymous, no ID required, global coverage
  • Airalo - Popular budget option
  • Nomad - Good for frequent travelers
  • Your home carrier's travel eSIM (usually expensive)

Step 4: Install eSIM via QR Code (Easiest Method)

Samsung Galaxy Phones

  1. Connect to WiFi (or use existing mobile data)
  2. Open Settings
  3. Tap Connections
  4. Tap SIM card manager (or SIM manager)
  5. Tap Add eSIM or Add mobile plan
  6. Tap Scan QR code
  7. Point your camera at the QR code (displayed on another device or printed)
  8. Wait 30-60 seconds while profile downloads
  9. Tap Add when prompted
  10. Name your eSIM (e.g., "Travel eSIM", "Thailand Data")
  11. Choose whether to enable it now or later
  12. Done! Your eSIM is installed

Pro Tips for Samsung:

  • If you can't scan QR code (it's on your phone), screenshot it and view on another device, or use manual entry method below
  • Samsung allows 5-8 eSIM profiles stored, but only 2 active (1 physical SIM + 1 eSIM, or 2 eSIMs)
  • To switch between eSIMs: Settings > Connections > SIM card manager > Toggle eSIMs on/off

Google Pixel Phones

  1. Connect to WiFi
  2. Open Settings
  3. Tap Network & Internet
  4. Tap SIMs
  5. Tap + Add more (or Download a SIM instead?)
  6. Tap Next
  7. Point camera at QR code
  8. Tap Download
  9. Wait for profile to install (30-90 seconds)
  10. Tap Done
  11. Enable the eSIM in SIM settings

Google Pixel Features:

  • Pixel phones (4a and later) support dual-SIM dual standby (DSDS) - both SIMs active simultaneously
  • You can store up to 5-7 eSIM profiles
  • To delete eSIM: Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > [eSIM name] > Erase SIM

OnePlus 11 / OnePlus Open

  1. Open Settings
  2. Tap Mobile Network (or SIM & Network)
  3. Tap Add an eSIM
  4. Tap Scan QR code from service provider
  5. Scan the QR code
  6. Tap Download
  7. Wait for installation
  8. Name your eSIM and enable it

Motorola Razr / Edge+

  1. Go to Settings > Network & Internet
  2. Tap Mobile network
  3. Tap Advanced > Carrier
  4. Tap Add carrier
  5. Select Use QR code
  6. Scan QR code and follow prompts

Oppo / Xiaomi / Other Android

Path varies slightly by manufacturer, but general steps:

  1. Settings > SIM cards & mobile networks (or similar)
  2. Look for Add eSIM, Download SIM, or Manage eSIM
  3. Select Scan QR code
  4. Follow on-screen instructions

Step 5: Install eSIM Manually (Without QR Code)

Use this method if:

  • QR code is on the same phone (can't scan it)
  • Camera isn't working
  • Provider gave you SM-DP+ address and activation code instead of QR

Manual Installation Steps

  1. Open Settings > Connections (Samsung) or Network & Internet (Pixel)
  2. Tap SIM card manager or SIMs
  3. Tap Add eSIM
  4. Instead of scanning QR, tap Enter code manually or Enter activation code
  5. You'll see fields for:
    • SM-DP+ Address - Looks like: sm-dp-plus.example.com
    • Activation Code - Long alphanumeric string
    • Confirmation Code - (Optional, usually blank)
  6. Copy-paste from your eSIM provider's email/app
  7. Tap Download or Add
  8. Wait for profile to install
Common manual entry mistakes:
  • Typos in activation code (copy-paste to avoid errors)
  • Spaces or special characters where they shouldn't be
  • Using wrong SM-DP+ address (double-check email)
  • Missing WiFi connection during download

Step 6: Configure eSIM Settings

After installation, you need to configure how your phone uses the eSIM.

Enable Mobile Data on eSIM

Samsung:

  1. Settings > Connections > SIM card manager
  2. Tap Mobile data
  3. Select your eSIM

Google Pixel:

  1. Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs
  2. Tap your eSIM name
  3. Toggle Mobile data ON

Set Default SIM for Calls/SMS (Dual SIM Setup)

If you have both physical SIM and eSIM active:

  1. Go to SIM card manager / SIM settings
  2. Choose:
    • Calls - Which SIM makes calls by default
    • SMS - Which SIM sends texts by default
    • Mobile data - Which SIM uses data by default

Recommended Dual-SIM Setup for Travelers:

  • Physical SIM (Home) - Keep for receiving calls/SMS (disable data to avoid roaming charges)
  • eSIM (Travel) - Use for mobile data (cheap local data, no roaming fees)

This way, you get cheap data abroad while still receiving important calls on your home number.

Enable Data Roaming (If Required)

Some eSIMs require data roaming enabled:

  1. Settings > Connections > Mobile networks (or Network & Internet)
  2. Select your eSIM
  3. Toggle Data roaming ON

Note: This won't charge you roaming fees with prepaid eSIMs (data is already included).

Troubleshooting Common eSIM Installation Issues

Problem 1: "Cannot Add eSIM" or "eSIM Not Supported"

Possible causes:

  • Phone is carrier-locked (see Step 2 above)
  • Phone doesn't support eSIM (check compatibility list)
  • Android version too old (need Android 9+)
  • Region-specific restriction (some phones sold in certain countries lack eSIM)

Solutions:

  • Unlock your phone via your carrier
  • Update to latest Android version (Settings > System > System update)
  • If Samsung: Check if you have US carrier model (often locked) vs. international model (usually unlocked)

Problem 2: QR Code Won't Scan

Solutions:

  • Increase screen brightness on device showing QR code
  • Clean your camera lens
  • Try displaying QR code on a different device or print it
  • Use manual entry method instead (see Step 5)
  • Ensure QR code is fully visible (not cut off or blurry)

Problem 3: "Download Failed" or "Activation Failed"

Causes and fixes:

Error Cause Solution
Download failed No internet connection Connect to stable WiFi or cellular data
QR code already used eSIM already activated on another device Contact provider for new QR code (some can be reused, others can't)
Invalid activation code Typo in manual entry or expired code Double-check code or contact provider
Not enough storage eSIM profile slots full (max 5-10) Delete old eSIM profiles: Settings > SIMs > [Old eSIM] > Delete

Problem 4: eSIM Installed But No Signal / No Data

Troubleshooting steps:

  1. Check if eSIM is enabled - Settings > SIMs > Toggle eSIM ON
  2. Enable data roaming - Required for most travel eSIMs
  3. Restart phone - Turn off, wait 10 seconds, turn on
  4. Check APN settings (if provided by eSIM carrier):
    • Settings > Connections > Mobile networks > Access Point Names
    • Select your eSIM
    • Enter APN details from provider (usually auto-configured)
  5. Check eSIM balance/expiry - Data may be used up or plan expired
  6. Toggle Airplane mode - ON for 10 seconds, then OFF
  7. Manually select network:
    • Settings > Connections > Mobile networks > Network operators
    • Tap Search networks
    • Select carrier manually (if auto doesn't work)

Problem 5: Can't Delete or Remove eSIM

To delete eSIM profile:

  1. Settings > Connections > SIM card manager (or Network & Internet > SIMs)
  2. Tap the eSIM you want to remove
  3. Tap Remove, Delete, or Erase SIM
  4. Confirm deletion

Note: Some eSIMs can be re-downloaded after deletion (if provider allows). Others are one-time use - deleting means losing it forever. Check with your provider first.

Advanced: Managing Multiple eSIMs

How Many eSIMs Can You Have?

Phone eSIMs Stored eSIMs Active Simultaneously
Samsung Galaxy S20-S24 5-8 profiles 1 eSIM + 1 physical SIM
Google Pixel 3-8 5-7 profiles 1-2 eSIMs (depending on model) + 1 physical SIM
OnePlus 11 5 profiles 1 eSIM + 1 physical SIM
Motorola Razr 5 profiles 1 eSIM OR 1 physical SIM (not both)

Switching Between eSIM Profiles

If you have multiple eSIMs (e.g., USA, Europe, Asia):

  1. Settings > Connections > SIM card manager
  2. You'll see all stored eSIMs listed
  3. Toggle OFF the currently active eSIM
  4. Toggle ON the eSIM you want to use
  5. Wait 10-30 seconds for it to connect

Pro tip: Label your eSIMs clearly (e.g., "Thailand Travel", "Europe Data", "Home eSIM") to easily identify them.

eSIM vs Physical SIM: Dual-SIM Setup Strategies

Best Setups for Different Use Cases

Setup 1: Frequent International Traveler

  • Physical SIM: Home carrier (AT&T, Vodafone, etc.) - Keep for calls/SMS
  • eSIM: Travel eSIM (PikaSim, Airalo) - Use for data
  • Config: Calls/SMS on physical, data on eSIM, disable physical SIM data roaming
  • Benefit: Receive important calls on home number, avoid roaming charges with cheap eSIM data

Setup 2: Privacy-Focused User

  • Physical SIM: None (remove it)
  • eSIM 1: Anonymous data-only eSIM (PikaSim, no ID required)
  • eSIM 2: Backup eSIM for different region
  • Config: Use Signal/WhatsApp for calls over data
  • Benefit: No phone number, no ID registration, no carrier tracking

Setup 3: Digital Nomad (Long-Term Travel)

  • Physical SIM: Remove or keep for 2FA SMS only (disable data)
  • eSIM: Regional eSIM (e.g., Europe 30-day plan)
  • Config: All data on eSIM, use VoIP apps for calls
  • Benefit: One eSIM covers multiple countries, no SIM swapping at every border

Comparing Installation: Android vs iPhone

Feature Android eSIM iPhone eSIM
Installation Method QR code or manual entry QR code, carrier app, or Settings
Ease of Setup Moderate (varies by manufacturer) Easy (consistent across models)
eSIMs Stored 5-8 profiles 8-10 profiles (iPhone 13+)
Dual eSIM Active Rare (some Pixel models only) Yes (iPhone 13+)
Carrier Lock Issues Common (especially Samsung US models) Less common (unlocked iPhones widely available)
Troubleshooting More complex (manufacturer variations) Easier (Apple Support, consistent experience)

See also: How to Install eSIM on iPhone (coming soon)

Security & Privacy Tips for Android eSIMs

Protect Your eSIM QR Code

  • Never share your QR code - Anyone with it can activate your eSIM (before you do)
  • Screenshot and store securely - Save in encrypted folder or password manager
  • Delete email after activation - If QR is one-time use, no need to keep it
  • Use anonymous email - ProtonMail, Tutanota for eSIM registration (no personal info)

Privacy-Maximizing Android Setup

  1. Buy anonymous data-only eSIM (PikaSim - no ID required)
  2. Pay with crypto or privacy card (no real name)
  3. Use VPN on top of eSIM (Mullvad, ProtonVPN)
  4. Encrypted DNS (NextDNS, Quad9)
  5. Signal/Session for calls instead of cellular voice
  6. Disable eSIM when not actively using data (prevents tower triangulation)

Result: No ID, no phone number, minimal digital footprint.

FAQ

Can I use eSIM and physical SIM at the same time on Android?

Yes, most eSIM-compatible Android phones support dual-SIM dual-standby (DSDS). You can have 1 physical SIM + 1 eSIM active simultaneously. Both will receive calls/SMS, and you can choose which to use for data.

Will I lose my eSIM if I factory reset my phone?

Yes - factory reset deletes all eSIM profiles. Save your QR codes or activation codes before resetting. Some providers allow re-downloading profiles; others are one-time use (check with provider).

Can I transfer eSIM from one Android phone to another?

Not directly. eSIMs are bound to your phone's EID. To move to a new phone: (1) Delete eSIM from old phone, (2) Request new QR code from provider (if allowed), or (3) Buy new eSIM. Some carriers offer eSIM transfer, but it's rare.

Do eSIMs work on custom ROMs (LineageOS, GrapheneOS)?

It depends. Most custom ROMs support eSIM if the hardware does. However, Google Pixel phones running GrapheneOS may have issues with some eSIM providers due to removed Google Services. Test before committing to a plan.

Why can't I see "Add eSIM" on my Samsung Galaxy?

Most likely, your phone is carrier-locked or is a US carrier model. Samsung US models (sold by Verizon/AT&T) often have eSIM disabled. Solutions: (1) Unlock your phone, or (2) Buy international/unlocked Samsung model next time.

How do I check how much data is left on my eSIM?

Method 1: Check your eSIM provider's app or website (if they have one). Method 2: Android data usage stats (Settings > Network & Internet > Data usage > Select eSIM) - note this shows usage, not remaining balance. Always check provider's portal for accurate balance.

Can I use the same eSIM QR code on multiple devices?

No - each QR code is locked to one device's EID. Once scanned and activated, it's bound to that phone. To use eSIM on multiple devices, you need separate QR codes for each (contact your provider).

What's the difference between eSIM and embedded SIM?

They're the same thing. "eSIM" stands for "embedded SIM" - the chip is embedded (soldered) into your phone's motherboard, unlike removable physical SIM cards.

Will using eSIM drain my battery faster?

Minimal impact. Dual-SIM setups (physical + eSIM both active) may reduce battery life by 5-10% because your phone is connected to two networks. If you only use eSIM (no physical SIM), battery life is the same as using a physical SIM.

Next Steps: Get Your First eSIM

Now that you know how to install eSIM on Android, here's what to do:

Get Anonymous eSIM for Your Android Phone

No ID required. Works in 170+ countries. Instant delivery via email. From $3.

Browse eSIMs by Country Why eSIMs Are More Private

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