Step-by-Step Guide
How to Set Up eSIM on Android: Complete Guide (2026)
Step-by-step instructions for installing eSIM on Samsung, Google Pixel, and other Android devices. Covers QR codes, manual entry, carrier apps, and troubleshooting.
Updated April 2026 · About 8 min read
🤖 Android phones that support eSIM
eSIM support varies by manufacturer and region. Here are the most common eSIM-compatible Android devices:
Samsung
- Galaxy S20 series and newer (S20/S21/S22/S23/S24/S25)
- Galaxy Note 20 series and newer
- Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip series
- Galaxy A series (select 2023+ models)
Google Pixel
- Pixel 3a, 4, 4a, 5, 5a
- Pixel 6, 6 Pro, 6a
- Pixel 7, 7 Pro, 7a
- Pixel 8, 8 Pro, 8a, Pixel 9 series
Also supports eSIM: Motorola Razr (2022+), Xiaomi 13/14 series (global versions), OnePlus 11/12, Huawei P40/P50/P60 series, Sony Xperia 10 III+
⚠️Important: eSIM availability varies by region. US Samsung phones support eSIM; some international models may not. Phones sold in China (except Hong Kong) generally do NOT support eSIM. Check your specific model before purchasing.
What you'll need before you start
- An eSIM plan from eSimTrip or another provider (purchased and ready)
- Active Wi-Fi connection during setup
- Your Android device running Android 13 or later (some devices support eSIM on Android 11/12)
- The QR code or activation details from your provider
- Your device carrier-unlocked (required for most eSIMs)
Method 1: Samsung Galaxy (One UI)
Samsung devices use One UI. The menu names may vary slightly by Android version, but the steps are consistent.
- Open Settings → Connections.
- Tap SIM Manager (or "SIM Card Manager").
- Tap Add eSIM or Add mobile plan.
- Select Scan QR code from service provider.
- Scan the QR code sent by eSimTrip.
- Tap Add and wait for installation.
- Once added, customize the plan label (e.g., "eSimTrip Japan").
📱Samsung tip: On newer Galaxy devices (S23+ and newer), you can also add eSIM by going to Settings → Connections → SIM Manager → Add eSIM → Scan carrier QR code.
Method 2: Google Pixel (Stock Android)
Google Pixel devices run stock Android. These steps also apply to Motorola, Nokia, and other near-stock Android devices.
- Open Settings → Network & internet.
- Tap Mobile network → Add carrier.
- Tap Download a SIM instead? or Use eSIM.
- Select Scan QR code.
- Point your camera at the eSimTrip QR code.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to confirm installation.
- Label your eSIM (recommended: "Travel Data" or destination name).
✓Pixel shortcut: On Pixel 6 and newer, you can also tap "Add eSIM" directly from the quick settings panel when you expand the internet tile.
Method 3: Manual entry (no QR code)
If your camera isn't working or your provider gave you manual details instead of a QR code, use this method.
- Follow steps above to reach the "Add eSIM" screen.
- Instead of scanning, tap Enter code manually or Need help?.
- Enter the SM-DP+ address (starts with "https://" or "lpa://").
- Enter the Activation code (usually 12-32 characters).
- If provided, enter the Confirmation code.
- Tap Add to complete installation.
💡eSimTrip includes both a QR code and manual details in your confirmation email. Keep both handy in case one method fails.
Method 4: Install via provider app or link
Many modern eSIM providers, including eSimTrip, offer direct installation through their app or an emailed link.
- Tap the installation link in your confirmation email (must be opened on your Android device).
- Your browser will redirect to Settings to complete installation.
- Confirm the prompt to add the eSIM.
- If using the eSimTrip app, navigate to "My eSIMs" and tap "Install" next to your active plan.
This is the fastest method and eliminates typing or scanning errors.
Configuring your eSIM after installation
After adding the eSIM, you'll need to configure which SIM to use for data, calls, and messages.
📊 For data (most important):
Go to Settings → Connections → SIM Manager → choose your travel eSIM under "Mobile data." This ensures you're using your travel plan, not your home SIM with expensive roaming.
📞 For calls and texts:
Keep your primary SIM as the default voice line if you want to receive calls on your home number. Turn off "Data roaming" on your home SIM to avoid accidental charges.
⚠️Critical setting: On Samsung devices, go to Settings → Connections → SIM Manager → Mobile data roaming → turn OFF for your home SIM and turn ON for your travel eSIM.
Activating your eSIM at your destination
Most travel eSIMs activate automatically when you arrive and connect to a supported local network. Here's what to do:
✅ Before departure:
- Install the eSIM (can be done anywhere with Wi-Fi)
- Label the eSIM clearly
- Keep the eSIM turned OFF until you arrive
✅ After arrival:
- Go to Settings → SIM Manager
- Turn ON your travel eSIM
- Turn OFF your home SIM's data roaming
- Wait 1-2 minutes for network connection
Android eSIM troubleshooting
❌ "Device doesn't support eSIM" error
Your phone model or regional variant doesn't support eSIM. Check with your manufacturer. Some phones require a software update to enable eSIM.
❌ QR code won't scan
Clean your camera lens, ensure good lighting, or request manual entry details from your provider (SM-DP+ and activation code).
❌ No service after activation
Toggle Airplane mode on/off. Manually select a network: Settings → Connections → Mobile networks → Network operators → Choose a supported partner.
❌ "eSIM not supported by carrier"
Your phone may be carrier-locked. Contact your original carrier to request an unlock. Most carriers unlock after contract completion.
❌ Can't find "Add eSIM" in settings
Some Android skins hide eSIM options. Search "eSIM" in Settings search bar. On Xiaomi: Settings → Mobile network → SIM cards → Add eSIM.
Removing or deleting an eSIM
When your travel plan expires or you no longer need it, you can remove the eSIM from your Android device:
- Go to Settings → Connections → SIM Manager (or Network & internet → Mobile network).
- Tap the eSIM you want to remove.
- Tap Remove or Delete.
- Confirm removal when prompted.
ℹ️Removing an eSIM does not automatically refund your plan. Check eSimTrip's refund policy before deleting. If you need to reinstall the same eSIM later, you may need a new QR code from support.