How to Set Up an eSIM on Android (Google Pixel & Samsung)

Introduction

Android devices support eSIM technology, allowing you to activate mobile data without a physical SIM card. While the overall process is similar across devices, the menu names and steps can vary by manufacturer.

This guide explains how to set up an eSIM on Android, focusing on Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy devices. It includes QR code installation, manual installation, and the required steps to ensure mobile data access.

Google Pixel

QR Code Installation

Step 1: Install the eSIM

1. Go to Settings > Network & internet and tap the plus sign (+) next to your SIM.
   If this option is not available, select SIMs or Mobile network.

2. Select Download a SIM instead? > Next.

3. Choose Use a different network if you want to connect to a specific network.

4. Scan the QR code from another device or a printed copy.

5. Tap Continue > Download / Activate.

6. When you see Download Finished, tap Settings or Done.

Step 2: Access Mobile Data

1. Go to SIMs and select your new eSIM.

2. Enable Use eSIM.

3. Select Yes to confirm.

4. Enable Mobile data.

5. Enable Roaming.

6. Disable Automatically select network.

7. Manually select the eSIM’s supported network.

Manual Installation (Google Pixel)

Step 1: Install the eSIM

1. Go to Settings > Network & internet and tap the plus sign (+) next to your SIM.

2. Select Download a SIM instead? > Next.

3. Choose Use a different network, if required.

4. Tap Need help? > Enter it manually.

5. Enter the SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code.

6. Tap Continue > Download / Activate.

7. When the download is complete, tap Settings or Done.

Step 2: Access Mobile Data

Follow the same Access Mobile Data steps listed above for QR installation.

Other Android Devices (Generic Android)

QR Code Installation

Step 1: Install the eSIM

1. Go to Settings > Mobile networks.

2. Enable Turn on eSIM or Use eSIM, then tap OK if prompted.
   (If you don’t see this option, you may need to change your device region.)

3. Tap Manage eSIM > Add eSIM. This may appear as Add mobile plan or Add operator.

4. Select Set up an eSIM and choose the option to scan a QR code.

5. Scan the QR code from another device or a printed copy.

6. Tap Add or Set up, and enter a confirmation code if required.

7. Wait while the eSIM activates (do not exit the process; it may take a few minutes).

8. Tap Got it, Done, or Finish when prompted.

Step 2: Access Mobile Data

1. Go to Settings > Mobile networks and ensure your new eSIM is enabled.

2. Enable Mobile data and select your new eSIM as the Data SIM, if prompted.

3. Go to Data roaming and enable it.

4. Select Always (or For exceptions if you want to limit data usage to specific apps).

Samsung Galaxy

QR Code Installation

Step 1: Install the eSIM

1. Go to Settings > Connections > SIM card manager.

2. Select Add mobile plan > Scan carrier QR code.

3. Scan the QR code from another device or a printed copy.

4. Tap Confirm.

Step 2: Access Mobile Data

1. Go to SIM card manager and enable your new eSIM.

2. Tap OK.

3. Select your eSIM as the Mobile data SIM.

4. Go to Connections > Mobile Networks.

5. Enable Data roaming and make sure the correct eSIM is selected.

6. Tap Network operators and disable Select automatically.

7. Manually select the supported network.

Manual Installation (Samsung Galaxy)

Step 1: Install the eSIM

1. Go to Settings > Connections > SIM card manager.

2. Select Add mobile plan > Scan carrier QR code.

3. Enter the SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code.

4. Tap Connect.

5. Tap Confirm.

Step 2: Access Mobile Data

Follow the same Access Mobile Data steps listed above for QR installation.

Final Tips for Android eSIM Setup

• Keep your device connected to Wi‑Fi during eSIM installation.

• Do not leave the setup screen while the eSIM is activating.

• If mobile data does not work immediately, restart your phone and recheck Network selection and Data roaming.

By following this guide, you can successfully install and activate an eSIM on Android devices, including Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy phones.