How to install an eSIM on Android
The path changes with the brand, but the idea is always the same: Settings, the SIM or networks section, “Add eSIM”, and you scan the QR from the email. On Samsung it's under Connections, SIM manager. On Pixel, under Network & Internet, SIMs. Do it at home on Wi-Fi.
Updated on
Before you start
- You need Wi-Fi: installation downloads the profile from the internet.
- The phone has to support eSIM and be free of operator lock. Dial *#06#: if an “EID” shows up, it supports it.
- Have the QR to hand, on another screen or printed.
- The profile downloads once and is tied to that phone.
On a Samsung Galaxy
- Settings, “Connections”, “SIM manager”.
- Tap “Add eSIM”.
- Choose “Scan QR code from service provider”.
- Point it at the QR in the email and confirm the download.
- Give the line a name to tell it apart from yours.
On a Google Pixel
- Settings, “Network & Internet”.
- Tap “SIMs” and then the add button.
- Choose the option to download a SIM instead, or “Add eSIM”.
- Scan the QR and confirm.
On other brands
On Xiaomi, OPPO, Motorola or Honor the names change but the path is the same: look for “SIM”, “SIM cards” or “SIM manager” inside Settings and find the option to add an eSIM. If you can't find it, type “eSIM” into the settings search box: almost every Android skin has one.
If the QR doesn't work
Every skin allows manual installation. Look for the option to enter the details by hand and copy the SM-DP+ address and the activation code shown on your order page, exactly as they are and without spaces. If that doesn't work either, write to us with your order number.
When you arrive
- Switch on the eSIM line in the SIM manager.
- Set it as the preferred SIM for mobile data.
- Turn off data roaming on your Spanish line.
- Leave roaming switched on on the eSIM line: it needs it to connect to the local network.
A travel eSIM connects to local operators as a guest, so it needs roaming switched on on its own line. The one to turn off is your Spanish SIM's, which is the one that charges you.
How do I know if my Android supports eSIM?
Dial *#06# on the phone's keypad. If an “EID” appears among the codes, your phone supports eSIM. You can also search for “eSIM” in the settings search box.
Can I have two eSIMs and the physical SIM at once?
On most recent Androids you can store several eSIM profiles, though only a few lines can be used at once. Check your phone's SIM manager to see how many it allows active.
Why don't I see the option to add an eSIM?
Because the model doesn't support it or because it's locked to an operator. Check the EID first with *#06#; if it shows up and you still don't see the option, ask your operator to unlock it.
Do I lose the eSIM if I reset the phone?
Yes, a factory reset erases installed profiles and they can't always be downloaded again. Don't reset your phone during the trip unless you have to.
Something off, or a price changed? Write to ayuda@zasesim.com and we'll fix it. Data when you land.