How to Activate an eSIM (iOS/Android)

How to activate an eSIM (iOS / Android)

Most providers email you a QR code after purchase. You can activate right away or schedule it to start on your travel date. Here’s the quick playbook for both iPhone and Android.

iPhone (iOS 17+)

  1. Open Settings → Cellular (or Mobile Data) → Add eSIM.
  2. Choose Use QR Code, then point the camera at the QR from your provider’s email (or paste the Activation code/SM-DP+ address if given).
  3. When prompted, name the line (e.g., Travel eSIM), and set it as Cellular Data Only.
  4. Keep your physical SIM for calls/SMS/2FA. Make sure Data Roaming is ON for the eSIM only.
  5. Test data by opening a webpage. If it doesn’t work, toggle Airplane Mode for 10 seconds, then try again.

Android (Pixel / Samsung)

  1. Go to Settings → Network & Internet (or Connections) → SIMs → Add eSIM.
  2. Select Use QR code (or Enter activation code) and scan the code from your email.
  3. Set the new eSIM as your Mobile data line. Leave calls/SMS on your primary SIM.
  4. Turn Data Roaming ON for the eSIM line only.
  5. If no data: restart the phone or toggle Airplane Mode, then check the APN below.

APN (if data doesn’t start)

  • Find the APN in the provider’s email/app (e.g., internet, data, or a brand-specific APN).
  • iPhone: Settings → Cellular → Cellular Data Network → edit the APN for the eSIM line.
  • Android: Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs → the eSIM → Access Point Names (APN) → add/edit → save and select.

Quick tips

  • Activate a few hours before flying or upon landing to avoid early data usage.
  • Disable iCloud/Google Photos background sync on mobile data to reduce burn.
  • Use hotspot only if the plan allows it (some “unlimited” plans have FUP).

Troubleshooting

  • No data after install → toggle Airplane Mode, enable data roaming on the eSIM, check APN, then reboot.
  • WhatsApp/iMessage: keep your primary SIM active for verification codes (can be SMS only).
  • Stuck speeds → some plans throttle; try a different APN if offered, or switch to a regional plan.

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