How to Set Up an eSIM on Android: Complete Guide for Samsung, Google Pixel, and More
Marissa Ling
April 14, 2026 17:01
eSIM Guide
Setting up an eSIM on your Android phone doesn't have to be complicated. Whether you're using a Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, or another Android device, this guide walks you through the exact steps to get connected before your next trip.
Most Android eSIM setup takes less than 5 minutes once you have your QR code. The process varies slightly between manufacturers, but the core steps remain the same across all devices.
What You Need Before Starting #
Before you start the Android eSIM setup process, make sure you have:
- An eSIM-compatible Android device (most flagships from 2019 onwards)
- Your eSIM QR code or activation details
- A stable WiFi connection
- Your device unlocked (not carrier-locked)
Check if your Android phone supports eSIM by going to Settings > Connections > SIM card manager. If you see an "Add eSIM" or "Add mobile plan" option, you're good to go.
Quick eSIM Setup for Most Android Devices #
The general Android eSIM installation process works for most devices:
- Open Settings and find Connections or Network & Internet
- Look for SIM card manager, Mobile network, or SIMs
- Tap Add eSIM, Add mobile plan, or the + icon
- Choose Scan QR code or Add using QR code
- Point your camera at the eSIM QR code
- Follow the prompts to download and activate your eSIM
- Name your eSIM plan (like "Travel Data")
- Set it as your data connection if needed
Your eSIM should activate within minutes. Some carriers require a restart, but most connect automatically.
Samsung Galaxy eSIM Setup #
Samsung devices have a slightly different interface for eSIM setup:
For Samsung Galaxy S22, S23, S24 Series: #
- Go to Settings > Connections > SIM card manager
- Tap Add eSIM at the bottom
- Select Scan carrier QR code
- Scan your eSIM QR code with the camera
- Tap Add when the plan details appear
- Choose a name for your eSIM (like "Europe Travel")
- Select Done
For Older Samsung Models: #
- Open Settings > Connections > Mobile networks
- Tap Add mobile plan
- Choose Scan QR code
- Scan your eSIM activation code
- Complete the setup process
Samsung phones often show a notification when your eSIM activates successfully. You can manage both your physical SIM and eSIM from the SIM card manager.
Google Pixel eSIM Setup #
Google Pixel phones have one of the cleanest eSIM setup experiences:
For Pixel 6, 7, 8, and 9 Series: #
- Open Settings > Network & internet > SIMs
- Tap Add more or the + icon
- Select Download a SIM instead?
- Choose Scan QR code
- Point your camera at the eSIM QR code
- Tap Download when prompted
- Name your eSIM plan
- Choose whether to use it for calls, texts, or data
Pixel devices typically activate eSIMs faster than other Android phones. The setup usually completes in 2-3 minutes.
OnePlus eSIM Setup #
OnePlus phones running OxygenOS 12 or newer support eSIM:
- Navigate to Settings > Mobile network > SIM & network settings
- Tap Add eSIM
- Select Scan QR code
- Scan your eSIM activation code
- Confirm the carrier details
- Name your eSIM plan
- Complete activation
OnePlus devices may take slightly longer to activate eSIMs compared to Samsung or Pixel phones.
Xiaomi eSIM Setup #
Xiaomi phones with MIUI 13+ support eSIM in most regions:
- Go to Settings > SIM cards & mobile networks
- Tap Add eSIM or +
- Choose Scan QR code
- Scan your eSIM QR code
- Follow the activation prompts
- Set your eSIM preferences
Note that some Xiaomi models sold in certain regions may have eSIM functionality disabled.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting #
eSIM Won't Activate #
- Check your internet connection
- Restart your phone and try again
- Make sure your device isn't carrier-locked
- Verify the QR code isn't damaged or expired
Can't Find eSIM Settings #
- Update your Android version to the latest
- Check if your specific model supports eSIM
- Some carrier-locked phones hide eSIM options
eSIM Shows No Service #
- Toggle airplane mode on and off
- Manually select your network operator
- Check if the eSIM plan has data remaining
- Restart your device
QR Code Won't Scan #
- Clean your camera lens
- Ensure good lighting when scanning
- Try manually entering the activation code instead
- Check if the QR code is complete and not cut off
Testing Your eSIM Connection #
After setup, test your eSIM connection:
- Check the signal bars next to your eSIM name
- Try opening a website or app that needs internet
- Send a test message if your plan includes SMS
- Make a call if voice service is included
Most travel eSIMs are data-only, so don't worry if calling doesn't work.
Managing Multiple eSIMs #
Android phones can store multiple eSIM profiles:
- Go to Settings > SIMs to see all your plans
- Switch between eSIMs by selecting different ones for data
- Delete old eSIM profiles you no longer need
- Most phones can have 1 physical SIM + 1 active eSIM running simultaneously
You can keep travel eSIMs stored on your phone and reactivate them for future trips.
When you need affordable travel data for your next adventure, services like Roamify make it simple to get connected in over 200 countries starting at just $2. The instant digital delivery means you can buy and install your eSIM right before boarding your flight.
FAQs #
What Android phones support eSIM in 2026? #
Most flagship Android phones from 2019 onwards support eSIM, including Samsung Galaxy S20+, Google Pixel 4+, OnePlus 8+, and many others. Check your phone's specifications or look for eSIM options in your network settings.
Can I use both a physical SIM and eSIM at the same time? #
Yes, most Android phones support dual SIM functionality with one physical SIM and one active eSIM. You can choose which SIM to use for calls, texts, and data in your settings.
How many eSIMs can I store on my Android phone? #
Most Android devices can store 5-10 eSIM profiles, but only one can be active alongside your physical SIM. The exact number varies by manufacturer and model.
Do I need to delete my old eSIM before adding a new one? #
No, you can keep multiple eSIM profiles stored on your phone. Just make sure to switch to the correct one for data when traveling. Delete old profiles only if you're running out of storage space.
Why won't my eSIM QR code scan? #
Common issues include poor lighting, dirty camera lens, damaged QR code, or using a screenshot instead of the original code. Try cleaning your camera, improving lighting, or manually entering the activation details.
Can I transfer my eSIM to a new Android phone? #
eSIMs are typically tied to one device and can't be transferred. You'll need to contact your eSIM provider for a new activation code when switching phones.
What happens if I factory reset my phone with an eSIM installed? #
Factory resetting will delete your eSIM profile. Make sure to have your activation details saved or contact your provider for a new QR code before resetting your device.
Setting up an eSIM on Android is straightforward once you know the steps for your specific device. With instant activation and no physical SIM cards to swap, eSIMs make staying connected while traveling simpler than ever.
Related eSIM destination plans
Frequently asked questions
- What will I learn in How to Set Up an eSIM on Android: Complete Guide for Samsung, Google Pixel, and More?
- You will learn how eSIM activation works, how to compare data plans, and which setup steps matter most before and during your trip.
- How do I choose the right eSIM plan for Japan?
- Match your plan to trip length, expected daily data use, hotspot needs, and network quality in your destination. Short stays usually need less data, while remote work and video calls need more.
- Where can I buy travel eSIM plans for Japan and Thailand?
- Use the destination links in this guide to go directly to Roamify country pages, compare plan options, and complete checkout before departure.