How to Set Up eSIM on Android: Complete Guide

Android eSIM Compatibility

Samsung Galaxy Devices

eSIM support on Samsung:

• Galaxy S20 series and newer
• Galaxy Z Fold series (all)
• Galaxy Z Flip series (all)
• Galaxy Note 20 series
• Select Galaxy A series models

Google Pixel Devices

eSIM support on Pixel:

• Pixel 2 and newer (all models)
• Pixel Fold
• Most reliable Android eSIM experience

Other Android Devices

eSIM also available on:

• OnePlus 12, 11, and newer
• Motorola Razr series
• Oppo Find series
• Xiaomi select models
• Many other flagship devices

How to Check eSIM Support

1. Go to Settings > About Phone
2. Look for EID (eSIM Identifier)
3. If you see an EID number, your phone supports eSIM

Samsung Galaxy eSIM Setup

Method 1: QR Code Scan

Step 1: Access eSIM Settings

• Open Settings
• Tap Connections
• Tap SIM manager (or SIM card manager)
• Tap Add eSIM

Step 2: Scan QR Code

• Select Scan QR code from service provider
• Point camera at your eSIM QR code
• Wait for code recognition

Step 3: Activate

• Review plan details
• Tap Confirm
• Wait for activation (1-5 minutes)

Step 4: Configure

• Name your plan (e.g., "Travel Data")
• Set preferences for data, calls, texts
• Tap Done

Method 2: Manual Activation

If QR code isn't working:

1. In Add eSIM, select Enter activation code manually
2. Enter SM-DP+ address
3. Enter activation code
4. Tap Connect
5. Complete activation

Google Pixel eSIM Setup

Standard Setup Process

Step 1: Open SIM Settings

• Go to Settings
• Tap Network & internet
• Tap SIMs
• Tap + Add SIM (or Add)

Step 2: Choose Method

• Scan QR code: Use your camera
• Activation code: Enter manually
• Carrier app: Some carriers have dedicated apps

Step 3: Scan and Activate

• Point camera at QR code
• Wait for detection
• Confirm activation
• Set up preferences

Step 4: Configure Dual SIM

• Choose default for calls
• Choose default for texts
• Choose default for data
• Name your SIMs for easy identification

Other Android Devices

The process is similar across Android:

1. Find SIM settings (usually in Network or Connections)
2. Look for Add eSIM or + button
3. Scan QR code or enter details manually
4. Configure preferences

Specific locations vary by manufacturer, but the core process remains consistent.

Managing Multiple eSIMs

Viewing Installed eSIMs

• Go to SIM settings
• See all installed profiles
• Check status (active/inactive)

Switching Active eSIM

• Tap on the eSIM you want to use
• Toggle Use this SIM
• Only one eSIM can be active at a time (plus physical SIM)

Removing an eSIM

1. Go to SIM settings
2. Tap on the eSIM
3. Select Delete or Remove
4. Confirm deletion

Note: Deletion is permanent. You'll need a new QR code to reinstall.

Dual SIM Configuration

Using eSIM + Physical SIM

Android lets you use both simultaneously:

Data Line

• Choose which SIM handles mobile data
• Can be changed anytime
• Consider speed and cost

Default Call Line

• Which SIM makes outgoing calls
• Can choose per-contact
• Incoming calls work on both

Default Text Line

• Which SIM sends SMS/MMS
• Important for verification codes
• Can switch as needed

Per-Contact Settings

Assign specific SIMs to contacts:

1. Open contact
2. Find SIM or Preferred SIM option
3. Select which line to use
4. Saves your preference

Troubleshooting Android eSIM

eSIM Won't Activate

Check internet connection

• Need stable WiFi or cellular
• Try different network

Verify QR code validity

• QR codes can expire
• Contact provider for new code

Restart device

• Sometimes fixes connectivity issues
• Try again after restart

Check carrier lock

• Some phones are carrier-locked
• May need to be unlocked first

No eSIM Option in Settings

• Verify device supports eSIM (check for EID)
• Update to latest software
• Some carriers disable eSIM on their phones

Data Not Working After Setup

1. Ensure eSIM is set as data SIM
2. Check APN settings (usually automatic)
3. Toggle airplane mode on/off
4. Restart device

Can't Delete eSIM

• Try restarting first
• Check if it's currently active
• Reset network settings (last resort)

Pro Tips for Android eSIM

1. Screenshot QR codes: Save before scanning for backup
2. Name SIMs clearly: "Home" and "Travel Japan" better than "SIM 1"
3. Test before traveling: Activate and verify before departure
4. Know your settings location: Varies by manufacturer
5. Keep physical SIM as backup: Useful if eSIM issues arise

Conclusion

Android eSIM setup is straightforward once you know where to find the settings. Whether you have a Samsung, Pixel, or other Android device, the process is similar: access SIM settings, scan your QR code, and configure your preferences.

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