How to Install an eSIM on Android: Samsung, Pixel & More (2026)
On most Android phones, open Settings, find SIM manager (Samsung) or SIMs (Pixel), tap Add eSIM or Add SIM, then scan your provider's QR code over Wi-Fi. Menu names differ by brand, but the steps are similar.
To install an eSIM on Android, open Settings, find the SIM section — called SIM manager on Samsung and SIMs on Pixel — then tap Add eSIM or Add SIM and scan the QR code from your provider. Do this on Wi-Fi, because the profile downloads over the internet. Menu wording differs between brands and Android versions, but the overall flow is the same.
If you have not chosen a plan yet, you can browse eSIM destinations first, then return with your QR code ready.
Before you start
- Confirm your phone supports eSIM — see does my phone support eSIM? if unsure.
- Make sure the phone is carrier-unlocked.
- Connect to Wi-Fi.
- Have the QR code ready, ideally on a second screen or printed, since you cannot always scan a code shown on the same phone.
Samsung Galaxy
- Open Settings.
- Tap Connections.
- Tap SIM manager (older models may show SIM card manager).
- Tap Add eSIM.
- Tap Scan QR code from service provider and scan your code.
- Follow the prompts to download and add the plan.
Google Pixel
- Open Settings.
- Tap Network & internet.
- Tap SIMs (if you already have a SIM, you may need to tap + or Add SIM).
- Tap Download a SIM instead? or Set up an eSIM.
- Tap Next and scan your QR code.
- Follow the prompts to finish.
Other Android brands
The idea is the same on other phones, only the menu names change. On many devices the path is Settings > Mobile network, Connections, or SIM & network, then an option to add a mobile plan or eSIM. If you cannot find it, open Settings search and type “eSIM” or “SIM” to jump straight to the right screen. Because the exact labels vary by manufacturer and Android version, treat the words above as a guide rather than an exact script.
Entering details manually
If you cannot scan a QR code, most providers let you type the details instead. During setup, look for a link such as Need help? or Enter it manually, then enter the activation code (and SM-DP+ address, where asked) from your provider and continue. This is handy when the code is only available on the same phone you are setting up.
Using your provider’s app
Many eSIM providers offer an Android app that installs the profile automatically after purchase. This avoids QR codes and is often the easiest option on a single device — buy, tap install, and approve the system prompt.
After installing: name and select your lines
Once added, you can name each SIM (for example Home and Travel) and choose which one is used for mobile data, calls, and texts. On Samsung this is under SIM manager; on Pixel it is under Network & internet > SIMs. For travel, a common choice is to keep your home SIM for calls and set the eSIM as your preferred data SIM on arrival.
Installing is not activating
Adding the eSIM profile does not usually start your plan. For most travel eSIMs, the plan begins when the eSIM connects to a network at your destination, and you must switch on Data roaming for the eSIM line. See how to activate your eSIM for the full sequence.
Troubleshooting
- No Add eSIM option: Your phone or carrier variant may not support eSIM, or it may be network-locked.
- QR will not scan: Brighten the other screen, clean your camera, or switch to manual entry.
- Installed but no data: Set the eSIM as your data SIM and turn on data roaming for it.
- Added but shows as inactive: Open the eSIM in SIM settings and toggle the line on; some phones add the profile switched off by default.
A quick note on Wi-Fi and timing
You need Wi-Fi only to download the profile, not to use the plan later, so installing at home or at your hotel is fine. Many travellers install the eSIM a day or two before departure and keep data roaming switched off for it until they land — that way the profile is ready but your plan’s validity window does not start early. If your phone offers it, you can also rename each SIM straight after install so it is obvious which line is your home number and which is the travel data plan. Because manufacturers change these menus between Android versions, use your phone’s built-in Settings search for “eSIM” whenever a label does not match exactly.
Still weighing it up? Read eSIM vs physical SIM, or when you are ready, choose a destination like Japan or the USA and browse all eSIM destinations.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the eSIM option on Samsung?
Open Settings, tap Connections, then SIM manager, and choose Add eSIM. Older models may call it SIM card manager.
Where is the eSIM option on Pixel?
Open Settings, tap Network & internet, then SIMs, and choose to download a SIM or set up an eSIM.
Do all Android phones support eSIM?
No. Support is common on recent flagships such as Samsung Galaxy S20 and later and Pixel 4 and later, but many budget and older models do not include it.
Can I use an eSIM and a physical SIM at once on Android?
On most eSIM-capable Android phones, yes. You can run a physical SIM and an eSIM together and choose which handles data.
Why can't I scan the QR code shown on my phone?
A phone generally cannot scan a code displayed on its own screen. Use manual entry, the provider's app, or display the code on another device.
Compare travel eSIMs on price, data and coverage for your destination.
Browse eSIM destinations →