Jarrod Suda
Guide
Jul 25, 2024
eSIM activation is typically instantaneous, taking no more than 30 to 60 seconds. Just make sure you have a stable internet connection while you install your eSIM, or you may have to restart the process.
Compare the best eSIMs for your next trip
Methods to Activate an eSIM
You’ll need to install an eSIM onto your smartphone. Here are the four most common ways to set one up:
- Direct (Automatic): Use your carrier’s smartphone app. After purchasing an eSIM, simply follow the on-screen instructions. This is the quickest and most common way to install an eSIM.
- QR Code: Some eSIM carriers will email you a QR code instead. Scan the QR code to begin downloading eSIM data onto your phone. Simply follow the on-screen instructions.
- Quick Transfer: If you already have an eSIM on a smartphone, you can transfer it to a new smartphone. Apple’s iOS and Samsung’s Android are both capable of automatically transferring data from old phones to new ones.
- Manual: If you are having issues with the above methods, you can manually enter the eSIM information to your phone’s settings. Your carrier can provide you with this info in-app, by email, or with customer support.
How to Set an eSIM as the Primary eSIM on iPhone
By following these steps, you can manage which eSIM is activated as the primary line for your iPhone's call, text, and data connectivity needs:
- Open Settings: Go to the Settings app on your iPhone.
- Select Cellular: Tap on Cellular (or Mobile Service).
- Choose Your eSIM Plan: Under Mobile Service, select the eSIM plan you want to use.
- Set as Primary: Tap Turn On This Line if it’s not already active. To set it as your primary line for calls and texts, tap Default Voice Line and choose your desired eSIM plan. For data, in the Mobile Service menu, tap Mobile Data and select your desired eSIM plan.
- Toggle Primary and Secondary Lines: You can switch between primary and secondary lines for calls, texts, and data by returning to the respective sections in Settings > Cellular and changing the preferences.
Watch our YouTube video on how to activate an eSIM.
Potential Delays
Occasionally, activation can take longer due to network congestion, failure of the carrier to process your eSIM, or other technical issues. This can sometimes extend to a few hours or may require multiple attempts.
If you encounter delays, it is best to contact your carrier's customer service for assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions About eSIM Activation
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM that is embedded in a device and allows you to activate a cellular plan without having to use a physical SIM card. This technology saves space in devices, allowing for larger batteries and slimmer designs.
How can I tell if my device is eSIM compatible?
Read our updated list of eSIM compatible phones to see if your phone is included.
To check if your device supports eSIM:
- For iOS devices, go to Settings > General > About and look for an "eSIM" or "Digital SIM" entry.
- For Android devices, go to Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network and see if there's an option to add a carrier or eSIM.
How do I activate an eSIM?
The activation process generally involves the following steps:
- Obtain an eSIM activation code or QR code from your carrier.
- Go to your device’s settings:
- For iOS: Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan and scan the QR code.
- For Android: Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network > Add Carrier and scan the QR code.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the activation.
If you need a travel eSIM, eSIM providers will often support automatic activation within their app or through QR code.
Will I need a QR code to set up an eSIM?
If you need an eSIM from your main carrier at home, you will likely need a QR code to set up and activate your eSIM. Some carriers may let you activate eSIMs from their dedicated smartphone apps.
If you need a travel eSIM, eSIM providers will often have automatic activation capability within their app or through QR code.
I accidentally deleted my iPhone's eSIM profile. How do I get a new eSIM profile?
If you delete your eSIM profile, you will need to contact your carrier to obtain a new QR code or activation code. You can then follow the standard activation process to add the new eSIM profile to your device.
Travel eSIM providers will also require you to buy a new eSIM if you accidentally deleted your current one.
The smartphone I'm using has a SIM card slot and built-in eSIM. How do I change which one I'm using on a dual-SIM device?
To switch between SIMs on a dual-SIM device:
- Go to Settings > Cellular (iOS) or Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network (Android).
- Select the SIM you want to use for data, calls, and messages.
- Toggle the preferred SIM as Primary per function (data, call, text).
Read Our Guides on eSIM Set Up
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