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The evolution of eSIM technology has made connecting devices to mobile networks simpler than ever before. Whether you’re using an iPhone, Android, or another compatible device, activating an eSIM enables flexibility and convenience. In this guide, we’ll walk through the activation process and highlight how to install eSIM on your Apple and Android devices.

Understanding eSIM Activation

eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital SIM that allows you to activate a cellular plan without needing a physical SIM card. It’s especially useful for travelers, business owners, and those who want multiple numbers on one device. The activation process involves downloading your carrier’s profile and configuring your settings to enable mobile network access.

Step-by-Step Guide to Activate eSIM

Whether you use an iPhone, Android, or other devices, this guide will help you activate your eSIM efficiently.

How to Set Up eSIM on Different Devices

Installing eSIM on an Apple Device

If you’re using an Apple device, such as an iPhone or iPad, with iOS 17 or later, follow these instructions to install your eSIM using either a QR code or manual setup.

Before You Start, Ensure You Have:

• A stable internet connection (preferably WiFi or 4G/5G).
• An eSIM-compatible device (check your device's compatibility).
• Your device is unlocked from any network restrictions (verify the locked/unlocked status if needed).

Option 1: Install Using a QR Code

1. Starting the Process:some text
   • iOS 17 or Later: You can now scan a QR code from both the camera and the 
   • iOS 17.4 or Later: Click on the quick installation button in the eSIMo application after purchasing the package (without the need to scan the QR).
   • Photos app (save the QR code to your Photos beforehand).
2. Scan the QR Code:some text
   • Option 1: Open the Camera app, scan the QR code, and tap “Mobile Plan.”
   • Option 2: Go to Settings > Mobile/Cellular Data > Add eSIM > Use QR Code and scan the QR code. For iOS 17 and newer, click “Open Photos” to scan the QR from your saved images.
3. Activation: Tap Continue, and allow up to 10 minutes for the eSIM to activate. Once done, tap Done.
4. Label the eSIM (Optional):some text
   • You can rename your eSIM by tapping “>” and choosing from preset labels or entering a custom name, like "My eSIM." This step is only available if you have a single eSIM installed.
5. Configure Settings:some text
   • Set Default Line to “Primary.”
   • Set iMessage & FaceTime to “Primary.”
   • Choose Mobile Data for your eSIM.
   • Decide whether to enable Mobile Data Switching (this allows your device to use data from either SIM depending on network availability).
6. Enable Data Roaming:some text
   • Go to Settings > Mobile/Cellular Data > Select your eSIM and toggle Data Roaming to On.

Option 2: Manual Installation

1. Go to Settings > Mobile/Cellular Data.
2. Tap Add eSIM > Use QR Code > Enter Details Manually.
3. Enter the SMDP Address and Activation Code provided by your carrier. Leave the “Confirmation Code” blank.
4. Tap Continue and allow up to 10 minutes for activation.

For more detailed instructions, refer to our Esimo Support Guide for iOS eSIM Installation.

Installing eSIM on an Android Device

Android devices also support eSIM, and here’s how to install it using a QR code or manual input, based on a Samsung Galaxy S21 running Android 13.

Before You Start, Ensure You Have:

• A stable internet connection (preferably WiFi or a strong 4G connection).
• An eSIM-compatible device (check for compatibility).
• The device is unlocked from any network restrictions (verify if unsure).

Option 1: Install Using a QR Code

1. Start Installation:some text
   • Option 1: Open the Camera app, scan the QR code, and tap Add Plan to Phone.
   • Option 2: Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager > Add eSIM, then tap Scan QR Code from Service Provider.
2. Activate the eSIM: After scanning, tap Add, and allow up to 10 minutes for the eSIM to activate. Once complete, tap Done.
3. Configure SIM Settings:some text
   • Set your primary SIM for calls and messages.
   • Tap Mobile Data and select the eSIM as your data line.
4. Enable Data Roaming:some text
   • Go to Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks and toggle Data Roaming to On.
5. Set Network Operator to Automatic: Ensure the network operator selection is set to Automatic in the mobile network settings.

Option 2: Manual Installation

If you don’t have a QR code, follow these steps to manually install your eSIM:

1. Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager.
2. Select Add eSIM, and instead of scanning a QR code, tap Enter Details Manually.
3. Enter the Activation Code provided by your carrier, then tap Activate.

For a detailed guide, refer to our Esimo Support Guide for Android eSIM Installation.

How to Download eSIM from Your Carrier

Regardless of your device, once you initiate the eSIM setup, you’ll need to download your eSIM profile from your carrier. This can be done through a QR code or activation code provided by your mobile service provider.

1. Request an eSIM Profile: Contact your carrier for a QR code or activation code.
2. Scan the QR Code: Use your device’s camera or the eSIM setup screen to scan the code.
3. Manual Entry: If a QR code isn’t available, enter the carrier-provided details manually.
4. Activate: The device will download the eSIM profile and connect to the network.

For more details, visit our Esimo eSIM Support page.

Conclusion

Activating eSIM is a quick and easy process across different devices. Whether you're using an iPhone, Android, or another compatible device, the digital nature of eSIM means no more swapping physical SIM cards. Follow the steps in this guide to get connected with your eSIM today.

Visit our Esimo Support Page for more in-depth tutorials, and don’t forget to ensure your device is unlocked and ready for the eSIM setup!

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