How to Install eSIM on Android - [Samsung - Xiaomi - Motorola]

If you use Android, you are already aware of eSIM, first presented by Google Pixel in 2017 and has since been adopted by major mobile companies, including Samsung, Xiaomi, and Motorola.

However, changing from a conventional SIM card to an eSIM can be complicated for Android users. Installing and activating an eSIM is compulsory to ensure a smooth change.

This article will show you how to install and activate an eSIM on your Android devices. We'll also explain how to make sure that your device is compatible, prepare for installation, and successfully activate your eSIM. With our easy instructions, your eSIM will operate perfectly and instantly.

Check Device Compatibility

Not all Android devices enable eSIM, so ensure your device is compatible before you begin.

To quickly review if your phone supports eSIM, look for an 'Add Carrier' option in the 'Network & Internet' or 'Mobile Network' settings. Another option is to check our eSIM compatibility page where we have listed all eSIM compatible Android devices. Once you've verified these facts, you can set up your eSIM.

Installing eSIM Card on Android (Video Guide)

Installing eSIM Card on Android (Textual Guide)

Before installing an eSIM on your Android device, confirm everything is prepared for a seamless setup. This will allow you to bypass any problems during the installation. Here's a simple guide to help you get prepared:

• Make Sure Your Device is Network Unlocked (not tied to a single carrier)
• Have a Stable Internet Connection
• Have a QR Code or Manual Installation Code

How Do You Install an eSIM on Your Android?

To install an eSIM card on your Android device follow the steps below:

1. Go to “Settings”
   
   
2. Now select “Connections”.
   
   
3. Tap on “Sim Card Manager”
   
   
4. Now tap on Add Mobile Plan.
   
   

Here you have two options:

1. To install the eSIM with a QR code which is easier but requires a printed or QR code opened on another device. 
2. To install the eSIM manually with an activation code.

Both methods are explained in details below.

Method 1: Using a QR Code

1. Tap on “Scan carrier QR code”.
   
   
2. Here you need to have the QR code open on another device such as mobile phone, tablet or laptop; or printed on a paper. Position the QR code in the center of the camera scanner. 
3. Within a few seconds, the data plan will be recognized and your eSIM package will be added to your device.

Method 2: Manual Installation

The other way is to activate the eSIM plan manually from the QR code scanning window.

1. Tap on enter activation code. 
   
   
2. Now open your email app and find the Android activation code we sent to you after you purchased your plan on our website. 
3. Copy and paste the manual activation code from the email and tap on Connect.
   
   
4. If the code is valid, you should receive a final prompt. Just tap on confirm, and the eSIM will be installed within a few seconds.
   
   

How Do You Activate An eSIM On Android?

After installing the eSIM package we recommend labeling it for easy recognition and management in the future. This is optional and not something you must do in order to make the eSIM card functional. If you dont want to label your newly installed eSIM just skip to the next heading.

To add a custom name label you have to do the following:

1. Go to “Settings”
   
   
2. Now select “Connections”.
   
   
3. Tap on “Sim Card Manager”
   
   
4. Select your newly installed eSIM
   
   
5. Tap on "Name" option
   
   
6. Type in the name and tap on "Done"
   
   

Finally, your eSIM package has been successfully labeled.

Activating your eSIM plan on Android

So far, we learned about installing and renaming your eSIM plan and now it's time to activate it. Right before entering the destination country do the following to activate your eSIM package:

1. Go to “Settings”
   
   
2. Now select “Connections”.
   
   
3. Tap on “Sim Card Manager”
   
   
4. Select your newly installed eSIM as the default "Mobile Data" option
   
   
   
   
   
5. If you want to keep your default SIM card active during your travels it's super important to make the "Auto data switching" option disabled to avoid expensive roaming fees.
   
   

Congratulations, your eSIM card is installed and activated and you are free to surf the Internet!

Installing eSIM Card on Android (infographic)