How to easily add eSIM to Android devices
Need to add eSIM to Android? This article will guide you through each step, from verifying device compatibility to learning how to activate eSIM using QR codes or manual entry. Follow along to get your eSIM working seamlessly.
Anastasia Masalova
Capo Redattore
6 feb 2025
·
4 min di lettura
Table of contents
Get your Android ready
Before setting up your eSIM, a few quick checks will ensure a smooth installation:
✔ Make sure your phone is unlocked:
If your device was purchased through a carrier, it might be locked. Check with your provider to ensure it’s unlocked for eSIM use.
✔ Stay connected to Wi-Fi:
You need a stable internet connection to activate your eSIM. Ensure your smartphone is connected to WiFi or a mobile data network before proceeding.
✔ Have your activation details ready:
After purchasing your JetSim eSIM, you’ll receive a QR code or manual activation details (SM-DP+ address & activation code). Keep these handy for installation.
Checking eSIM compatibility on Android devices
Before you can activate your eSIM, you need to ensure your Android device is compatible. Follow these simple steps to check:
1. Open the Settings App: Tap on Settings.
2. Go to Network & Internet or Connections: Look for Network & Internet or Connections in your settings.
3. Access Mobile networks or SIM card manager: Tap on Mobile Networks or SIM Card Manager.
4. Check for eSIM option – If you see an option for eSIM or Add Mobile Plan, your device is eSIM-ready.
Need help? Check our eSIM compatibility guide for a full list of supported devices.
Adding a new eSIM mobile plan
Now that your device is ready, let’s install your JetSim eSIM.
Step 1: Open the SIM Card Manager
1. Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager.
2. Look for the Add eSIM option and tap it.
Step 2: Choose your installation method
1. QR code method: Scan the QR code you received via email using your camera app.
2. Manual entry: If scanning isn’t an option, enter the SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code manually.
Step 3: Scan the QR code (recommended method)
1. Open Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager > Add eSIM.
2. Select Scan QR Code and point your camera at the code to scan carrier QR code.
3. Wait for your phone to detect the plan and tap Add to install it.
Tip: Make sure you’re in good lighting and your camera lens is clean for a smooth scan.
Step 4: Enter eSIM details manually (if needed)
If the QR code doesn’t work:
1. Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager > Add eSIM.
2. Select Enter Details Manually.
3. Copy and paste the SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code from your order confirmation email.
4. Tap Next and follow the on-screen steps.
Step 5: Confirm & label your eSIM profile
After installation, name your eSIM (e.g., ‘JetSim Europe’) for easy identification.
Finalizing your eSIM setup
1. Activate your eSIM
For eSIM activation, go to Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager, select your new eSIM, and toggle it ON.
2. Set your default mobile data plan
If you’re using multiple SIMs, go to Settings > Mobile Networks > Mobile Data and select your JetSim eSIM.
3. Enable Data Roaming for international use
Some eSIMs require Data Roaming to be turned on. Go to Settings > Mobile Networks > Data Roaming > toggle ON.
Troubleshooting common issues
1. QR code not working? Try this:
- Ensure you have a stable internet connection and good lighting when scanning.
- Clean your camera lens and try again.
- If the QR code still won’t scan, switch to manual entry (instructions above).
2. eSIM not activating?
- Make sure your device is unlocked, running the latest software update, and follow the specific steps for activating eSIM on your device.
- Restart your phone and toggle Airplane Mode ON/OFF to refresh network settings.
- Check if Data Roaming is enabled in Settings > Mobile Networks.
3. No mobile data after installation?
- Go to Settings > Mobile Networks > Access Point Names (APN) and ensure the correct APN settings are applied (most eSIMs configure this automatically).
- Try switching to another available network manually.
4. Switching between eSIM and physical SIM?
Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager and select your preferred SIM for calls, texts, and mobile data.
Using dual SIM functionality
Many Android phones, including the Pixel 3a and newer models, support both an eSIM and a physical SIM simultaneously using Dual SIM Dual Standby (DSDS).
Certain devices, such as the Google Pixel 7 and later, even allow the use of two eSIM profiles at the same time, depending on carrier support. This dual SIM functionality makes it easier to manage multiple mobile plans – perfect for keeping one number for home and another for travel.
1. Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager.
2. Select your default SIM for calls, texts, and mobile data.
3. Switch between eSIM and physical SIM anytime, based on your needs.
Final thoughts
Activating an eSIM on Android is quick, straightforward, and eliminates the hassle of physical SIM swaps. Whether you’re traveling, managing multiple numbers, or upgrading to a more flexible mobile setup, eSIM technology gives you instant connectivity and control.
With JetSim eSIM, you get:
✔ Instant activation
✔ Reliable coverage
✔ Seamless plan switching
Ready to activate your JetSim eSIM? Follow the steps above and enjoy seamless connectivity anywhere you go.
Your questions answered
How do I check if my Android device supports eSIM?
Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager. If you see an Add Mobile Plan option, your phone supports eSIM. Need more details? Check our eSIM compatibility guide.
What if the QR code doesn’t scan?
Make sure your internet connection is stable, your camera lens is clean, and you have good lighting. If it still doesn’t work, manually enter the SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code from your order confirmation.
Can I use eSIM and a physical SIM at the same time?
Yes! Most modern Android phones support Dual SIM Dual Standby (DSDS), allowing you to use both an eSIM and a physical SIM simultaneously.
How do I switch between my eSIM and physical SIM?
Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager and select your preferred SIM for calls, texts, and mobile data.
Why isn’t my eSIM getting mobile data?
Check your APN settings in Settings > Mobile Networks > Access Point Names (APN). If no APN is set, your carrier may configure it automatically. Also, ensure Data Roaming is enabled if you’re traveling internationally.