How to Activate eSIM on Android (Samsung, Pixel & More)
Activating an eSIM on your Android phone is quick and easy. Here's how to do it on Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, and other Android devices.
March 16, 2026
8 min read
Before You Start
Make sure you have:
- ✅ An eSIM-compatible Android phone
- ✅ A stable internet connection (WiFi recommended)
- ✅ Your eSIM QR code from your provider
- ✅ An unlocked phone (not carrier-locked)
Activating eSIM on Samsung Galaxy
Samsung Galaxy S Series & Z Series
Step 1: Open SIM Manager
- Open Settings
- Tap Connections
- Tap SIM card manager (or SIM manager on newer models)
Step 2: Add eSIM
- Tap Add eSIM or Add mobile plan
- Select Scan carrier QR code
Step 3: Scan Your QR Code
- Point your camera at the QR code provided by Teraroma or your eSIM provider
- Wait for the profile to be recognized
Step 4: Confirm Installation
- Tap Confirm to add the plan
- Wait for the download to complete (1-3 minutes)
- The eSIM will appear in your SIM manager
Step 5: Configure
- Choose which SIM to use for Calls, Messages, and Mobile data
- For travel eSIMs, set the eSIM as your Mobile data line
- Enable Data roaming if traveling internationally
Samsung-Specific Tips
- One UI 5+: Samsung redesigned the SIM manager interface; look for a "+" button to add eSIM
- Samsung Account: Not required for eSIM installation
- Dual SIM mode: Samsung phones support using physical SIM + eSIM simultaneously
Activating eSIM on Google Pixel
Step 1: Access SIM Settings
- Open Settings
- Tap Network & internet
- Tap SIMs
Step 2: Download eSIM
- Tap the + button or Download a SIM instead
- Select Next on the "Download a SIM?" screen
Step 3: Scan QR Code
- Point your Pixel's camera at the QR code
- Wait for the profile to be recognized
- Tap Download to install the profile
Step 4: Activate
- Tap Settings when prompted
- Select the new eSIM as your preferred data line
- Toggle Mobile data on for the eSIM
- Enable Roaming if needed
Pixel-Specific Notes
- Pixel 2-3: eSIM support may be limited to Google Fi
- Pixel 3a+: Full eSIM support with any compatible carrier
- Pixel 8+: Support for multiple active eSIM profiles
Activating eSIM on Other Android Phones
OnePlus
- Settings → Mobile Network → Add eSIM
- Scan QR code and follow prompts
Xiaomi
- Settings → SIM cards & mobile networks → Add eSIM
- Scan QR code and confirm
Motorola
- Settings → Network & Internet → Mobile network
- Tap Advanced → Carrier → Add carrier
- Scan QR code
Oppo
- Settings → SIM card & mobile data → Add eSIM
- Scan QR code and install
How to Switch Between SIMs on Android
Setting Default Data SIM
- Go to Settings → Connections (Samsung) or Network & Internet (Pixel)
- Tap SIM manager or SIMs
- Under Mobile data, select your preferred SIM/eSIM
Setting Default Call/SMS SIM
- In the same SIM manager
- Tap Calls and choose your preferred line
- Tap Text messages and choose your preferred line
Removing an eSIM from Android
On Samsung
- Settings → Connections → SIM manager
- Tap the eSIM profile
- Tap Remove
On Google Pixel
- Settings → Network & internet → SIMs
- Select the eSIM
- Tap Erase SIM
⚠️ Removing an eSIM is permanent — you'll need a new QR code to reinstall.
Troubleshooting Android eSIM Issues
"No eSIM option in settings"
- Verify your phone model supports eSIM
- Check for software updates — some phones received eSIM support via updates
- Confirm your phone isn't carrier-locked
"eSIM download failed"
- Check your WiFi connection
- Restart your phone and try again
- Ensure the QR code hasn't expired
- Try entering details manually instead
"eSIM installed but no signal"
- Enable Data Roaming in the eSIM settings
- Toggle Airplane Mode on/off
- Make sure the eSIM is selected for Mobile Data
- Check if you're in a coverage area
- See our full troubleshooting guide
Pro Tips for Android eSIM Users
- Install before traveling: Download your eSIM while on stable WiFi at home
- Label your eSIMs: Give each eSIM a recognizable name (e.g., "Japan Travel")
- Disable home data abroad: Turn off mobile data on your home SIM to prevent roaming charges
- Screenshot your QR code: Save it before deleting the email, just in case
- Check APN settings: Some eSIMs require manual APN configuration — your provider will supply these
Get Your eSIM Now
Browse Teraroma's eSIM plans for 190+ countries. Get your QR code in seconds and follow the guide above to activate in minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Go to Settings → Connections → SIM card manager → Add eSIM. Scan the QR code provided by your eSIM provider and follow the on-screen prompts. The entire process takes about 3-5 minutes.
Not all Android phones support eSIM. Check our compatibility list to verify your model. If supported, make sure your phone's software is up to date and that it's not carrier-locked.
Yes! Most eSIM-capable Android phones support Dual SIM Dual Standby, meaning you can have both a physical SIM and eSIM active simultaneously. You can choose which to use for data, calls, and texts.
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