How to Install an eSIM: Step-by-Step Guide for iPhone and Android

Installing an eSIM takes about 2 minutes, but the exact steps depend on your device. This guide walks you through the process for both iPhone and Android, plus troubleshooting tips if something goes wrong.

Before You Start

Make sure you have:

• An eSIM-compatible phone (check our device compatibility guide)
• A carrier-unlocked device
• A WiFi connection (you need internet to download the eSIM profile)
• Your QR code (received after purchase via email and dashboard)

Installing on iPhone

Method 1: Scan QR Code (Recommended)

1. Open the Camera app on your iPhone
2. Point it at the eSIM QR code
3. A notification appears: "Cellular Plan Detected" — tap it
4. Tap "Continue" on the "Add eSIM" screen
5. Wait for the plan to download (10-30 seconds)
6. When prompted, choose a label — we recommend "Travel Data"
7. For "Default Line", keep your primary SIM as default for calls
8. For "Data", you can choose your travel eSIM or switch later
9. Tap "Done"

Method 2: Manual Installation

If the camera method does not work:

1. Go to Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data)
2. Tap "Add eSIM" or "Add Cellular Plan"
3. Tap "Use QR Code"
4. Scan the QR code
5. Follow the prompts to complete installation

Method 3: Enter Details Manually

If you cannot scan the QR code at all:

1. Go to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM
2. Tap "Enter Details Manually"
3. Enter the SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code from your email
4. Follow the prompts

Installing on Samsung Galaxy

1. Go to Settings
2. Tap Connections
3. Tap SIM Manager (or SIM card manager)
4. Tap "Add eSIM"
5. Tap "Scan QR code from service provider"
6. Point your camera at the QR code
7. Wait for the download to complete
8. Toggle the eSIM on when you want to use it

Installing on Google Pixel

1. Go to Settings
2. Tap Network & Internet
3. Tap SIMs (or Mobile network)
4. Tap "+" or "Add" next to the SIM section
5. Tap "Download a SIM instead?"
6. Tap "Next" and scan the QR code
7. Wait for activation
8. Toggle the eSIM on when ready

After Installation

• Do not delete the eSIM after installing — you cannot reinstall the same QR code
• Label it clearly so you can identify it in settings (e.g., "Turkey Data", "Europe eSIM")
• Keep it turned off until you arrive at your destination
• Turn it on when you land — your phone will connect to the local network automatically
• Plan validity starts on first data usage, not installation

Activating Your eSIM at Your Destination

When you arrive:

1. Go to Settings > Cellular (iPhone) or SIM Manager (Android)
2. Find your travel eSIM and toggle it on
3. On iPhone: Set it as the Cellular Data line
4. Wait 10-30 seconds for the network to connect
5. You should see signal bars and a carrier name appear
6. Test by opening a web page or map

Troubleshooting

"No eSIM plan detected" when scanning

• Make sure your phone camera is focused and the QR code is clear
• Try increasing screen brightness if scanning from another screen
• Use the manual method instead (Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM)

eSIM installed but no data connection

• Make sure the eSIM is toggled on in settings
• Make sure it is set as the cellular data line
• Toggle airplane mode on, wait 10 seconds, toggle off
• Restart your phone
• Check that data roaming is enabled for the eSIM line

"Unable to activate" error

• Verify your phone is carrier-unlocked
• Check that you have a WiFi connection during installation
• Try restarting your phone and scanning again
• If the issue persists, contact TripoSIM support

Multiple eSIMs: which line is which?

• Always label your eSIMs when installing
• Your primary SIM handles calls/SMS
• Your travel eSIM handles data only
• In settings, set "Cellular Data" to your travel eSIM when abroad

Quick Reference

That is it! Once installed, your eSIM is ready to go. Turn it on when you arrive at your destination, and you are connected in seconds.

Need help? Contact TripoSIM support at [email protected] — we are available 24/7.