How to Set Up an eSIM on Different Devices

If you’re tired of juggling tiny SIM cards every time you switch mobile plans or travel to a new country, you’re not alone. eSIM technology is here to simplify things. An eSIM is a digital version of the physical SIM, embedded directly in your phone, tablet, or even your smartwatch. Instead of swapping out plastic cards, you just download or scan a profile and you’re all set. But how exactly do you set it up, and does it work the same way on every device? That’s what we’re here to explore.

In this guide, we’ll walk through the process of setting up an eSIM on iPhones, Android phones, and other devices like tablets and smartwatches. We’ll cover common pitfalls—like device compatibility and carrier requirements—and share practical tips to make your eSIM experience smooth and hassle-free. If you’re the type who loves to hop from one country to another—maybe you’re planning a getaway to Spain or the United States—this article will help you prep your device so you can land with a working data plan already in place.

So whether you’re a frequent flyer, a digital nomad, or just someone who wants to keep a work and personal line on the same phone, read on. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to set up an eSIM on different devices—and why it’s one of the best ways to stay connected in our increasingly mobile world.

1. Why eSIM Setup Matters

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s talk about why the setup process is worth your attention. Traditional SIM cards require you to physically remove one and insert another whenever you change carriers. That might be fine if you do it once in a blue moon. But if you’re travelling a lot—say, you pop over to France for a business trip, then head to Italy for a holiday—you’ll quickly realise that fumbling with physical SIMs can get old fast.

eSIM setup is basically a one-time (or occasionally repeated) process of downloading and activating a digital profile. Once that profile is on your device, you can switch it on or off without physically touching anything. This is especially handy if your phone supports multiple eSIM profiles, letting you store data plans for different destinations and swap between them in your settings. So a bit of initial setup can save you a ton of time and headache later on.

2. Check If Your Device Supports eSIM

The first big step is to confirm whether your phone, tablet, or smartwatch even supports eSIM. Many modern smartphones do, but it’s not guaranteed. Apple started including eSIM functionality in iPhones from the XR and XS models onward (though some regional variants might differ). Google’s Pixel devices from Pixel 3 up generally support eSIM. Samsung began rolling it out in select Galaxy models like the S20 and later. However, older or budget models might still rely solely on physical SIM slots.

A quick way to check is to look at your device specs on the manufacturer’s website. Or, head to your phone’s settings and see if there’s an “Add eSIM” or “Add Cellular Plan” option. If you don’t see it, there’s a good chance your device doesn’t have eSIM functionality—or it might be locked to a specific carrier that hasn’t enabled it. Make sure your phone is unlocked if you plan to use eSIM from multiple carriers around the globe.

Also, keep in mind that some newer devices might be eSIM-only in certain regions. For instance, certain iPhone 14 models in the US come without a physical SIM tray at all. If that’s your phone, you’ll definitely need to figure out how to add eSIM profiles—there’s no fallback to a plastic SIM card.

3. Setting Up eSIM on iPhone

Apple has done a decent job of making eSIM setup straightforward, at least for iPhones released in the past few years. Here’s a step-by-step look at how to get started:

Buy an eSIM Plan: First, you’ll need an eSIM plan from a carrier or an eSIM provider. Many carriers let you purchase these online, after which you’ll receive a QR code via email.
Open Settings: On your iPhone, go to Settings > Mobile Data (or Cellular), then tap Add Data Plan. This option might be named slightly differently depending on your iOS version.
Scan the QR Code: Use your iPhone’s camera to scan the QR code you received. If the carrier gave you an activation code, you can also enter that manually.
Label the Plan: Once your phone detects the new eSIM, you can label it something like “Travel Data” or “Work Line.” This helps you distinguish it from any other SIM or eSIM profiles you might have.
Choose Your Default Line (Optional): If you have multiple plans, iOS will ask you which one to use as your default for calls and data. You can always change this later.

After these steps, you should see your new eSIM plan in the Mobile Data or Cellular settings. You can toggle it on or off as needed, which is super convenient if you’re switching between, say, a local plan in Spain and another plan you use at home.

4. Setting Up eSIM on Android

Android phones can vary widely in their settings menus, but the general process is pretty similar to iOS. Here’s a generic approach that works for many Android devices:

Check Your Phone Model: Not all Android phones have eSIM, so confirm compatibility first. Google Pixel devices (Pixel 3 and later) and many Samsung Galaxy models (S20 series and above) are safe bets, but double-check the specs.
Purchase or Obtain an eSIM Plan: Just like on iPhone, you’ll need a QR code or activation code from your chosen carrier or eSIM provider.
Open Network Settings: Go to Settings > Network & Internet (or something similar, depending on your device). Look for an option that says SIMs or Mobile Network.
Add eSIM: Tap + Add eSIM or Add Carrier. Your phone might open its camera to scan the QR code, or prompt you to enter an activation code.
Label the New Profile: Once the profile is downloaded, give it a name. This is especially helpful if you plan to store multiple eSIMs for different countries or carriers.
Select Preferred SIM for Data/Calls (If Applicable): If you have a physical SIM installed as well, your phone may ask which SIM you want to use for mobile data, calls, and texts.

After the eSIM is added, you can switch between SIM profiles without removing anything. It’s as simple as toggling a setting in your Network & Internet menu. So if you’re bouncing between the United States and Canada, for example, you can keep both eSIM plans on your phone and switch as needed.

5. Setting Up eSIM on Tablets and Smartwatches

eSIM isn’t limited to smartphones. You’ll find it in some tablets (like iPad models that support eSIM) and even certain smartwatches (like the Apple Watch or Samsung Galaxy Watch). The setup process is generally similar, but the menus can differ slightly:

iPad: Go to Settings > Mobile Data, tap Add a New Plan, and follow the prompts. You’ll scan a QR code or enter an activation code, just like on iPhone.
Apple Watch: If your Apple Watch supports cellular, you can add an eSIM plan via the Watch app on your iPhone. Look for Mobile Data or Cellular settings within the Watch app.
Samsung Galaxy Watch: You’ll typically pair the watch with your phone using the Galaxy Wearable app. During setup, it should prompt you to add a mobile plan if the watch model supports eSIM.

Keep in mind that not every tablet or smartwatch supports eSIM, so you’ll need to confirm compatibility before assuming you can just download a profile. Also, some carriers might require you to have a phone plan with them before you can add a watch plan, so it’s always wise to check the fine print.

6. Common Pitfalls and Troubleshooting

As straightforward as eSIM can be, there are still a few snags you might run into. Here are some of the most common:

Incompatible Device: Double-check your phone’s model and region. Some phones sold in certain markets disable eSIM functionality.
Carrier Lock: If your phone is locked to a specific network, you might not be able to add a different carrier’s eSIM profile.
QR Code Issues: If you’re having trouble scanning the code, make sure your camera is focusing properly. Alternatively, try entering the activation details manually.
Profile Download Errors: A flaky internet connection can disrupt the download. Switch to Wi-Fi if possible, or try again in an area with better signal.
Roaming Restrictions: Some eSIM profiles might be region-specific. If you’re attempting to set it up outside the intended region, you could run into errors.

If all else fails, your best bet is to contact the eSIM provider or your carrier. They can often reset your activation code or walk you through the process step by step.

7. Activating eSIM for Travel

One of the coolest perks of eSIM is how easily you can set it up for travel. Let’s say you’re jetting off to Spain for a week. Instead of waiting until you arrive to find a local SIM card, you can buy a Spanish data plan online ahead of time. The provider emails you a QR code, you add the eSIM to your phone, and the moment your plane touches down, you can activate local data. No searching for kiosks, no fiddling with your SIM tray in the middle of the airport.

This is a lifesaver if you have to do something urgent—like confirm a hotel booking or order a ride—right after you land. And it’s not just for short trips. If you’re moving around different countries, you can collect multiple eSIM profiles. For instance, you could have a plan for France, one for Germany, and another for Italy, all stored on your device. Switch between them whenever you cross a border.

8. Managing Multiple eSIM Profiles

Depending on your phone, you might be able to store more than one eSIM profile at a time. For example, some iPhones let you have multiple profiles loaded, but you can only keep two active at once (one physical SIM and one eSIM, or two eSIMs in newer models). Android phones vary by manufacturer, so it’s worth looking up your specific model to see how many eSIMs you can store and run simultaneously.

When you have multiple eSIMs, you can label each one. Maybe you name them after the countries—like “Spain eSIM,” “US eSIM,” or “Germany eSIM.” That way, you won’t accidentally activate the wrong plan. In many devices, you can also set a default line for calls, texts, or data, so you don’t have to keep toggling every time you make a phone call.

If you’re the type who travels for business, this can be a dream come true. You can maintain your personal number while adding temporary data plans in each country you visit. No more messing around with separate phones or rummaging for a SIM eject tool in your seat pocket.

9. Removing or Transferring eSIM Profiles

What if you no longer need a particular eSIM, or you’re switching to a new phone? Removing or transferring an eSIM profile is usually just as simple as adding it. In your device settings, you’ll see an option to remove or deactivate the eSIM. This won’t cancel the plan itself; it just removes the profile from your device. If you’re changing phones, you’ll typically need a fresh QR code or activation code to download the profile again on your new device, though some providers offer an easy transfer method.

Keep in mind that some carriers may limit how many times you can re-download a particular eSIM plan. Others might let you do it as often as you want, or charge a small fee for reissuing the QR code. It’s worth checking the terms and conditions so you don’t get caught off guard.

10. What About Devices Without eSIM?

If your phone or tablet doesn’t have eSIM capability, you’re stuck with physical SIMs for now. That said, you could consider upgrading to a device that supports eSIM, especially if you travel frequently or love the idea of switching carriers on the fly. As time goes on, more manufacturers are adopting eSIM, and some are even removing the physical SIM tray altogether. So if you’re shopping for a new phone, keep an eye out for eSIM in the spec list.

For those who aren’t ready to upgrade, you can still benefit from local SIMs in each country. But you might miss out on the ease of toggling between eSIM profiles. If you only travel occasionally, it might not be a huge deal. But if you’re a frequent flier or digital nomad, eSIM can be a real time-saver.

11. Security and Privacy

One of the questions people often ask is whether eSIM is secure. The short answer is yes. eSIM follows strict security standards set by the GSMA, which ensures your profile data is encrypted and can’t be easily tampered with. In many ways, it’s more secure than a physical SIM that could be lost or stolen. If someone grabs your phone, they’d still need your passcode or biometric authentication to mess with your eSIM settings.

Of course, you should still be vigilant. Only scan QR codes from trusted sources, and keep your device locked when not in use. If you do lose your phone, contact your carrier immediately so they can disable the eSIM profile and prevent any unauthorised usage.

12. Final Thoughts

Setting up an eSIM on your device might sound daunting at first, but it’s really just a matter of scanning a QR code and following a few on-screen prompts. Once you’re up and running, you’ll wonder how you ever put up with physical SIMs—especially if you’re the type who travels to places like the United States or Spain multiple times a year. You can have local data ready to go the moment you land, without the usual fuss.

Whether you’re on an iPhone, an Android phone, a tablet, or even a smartwatch, the process is roughly the same: purchase an eSIM plan, open your settings, add a new plan, and scan or enter the activation details. After that, it’s smooth sailing. You can label each plan, pick which one handles your data, and even switch between them if your device allows multiple active lines. And if you’re juggling personal and work numbers, or you’re a digital nomad hopping across borders, eSIM can save you a ton of hassle.

Of course, not every carrier supports eSIM just yet, and not every device is compatible. But the trend is moving fast, and more providers and manufacturers are jumping on board. If you’re curious to see how it all works, consider grabbing an eSIM plan from a site like Simplysim, which specialises in travel data for various destinations. With a quick QR code scan, you could be set up for your next trip to France, Germany, or beyond, all without swapping a single piece of plastic.

In short, eSIM is changing how we stay connected, one QR code at a time. If you haven’t given it a shot yet, now’s a great time to see what the fuss is about. Setting it up might only take a few minutes, but it can save you countless hours of messing with physical SIMs, searching for local SIM shops, or dealing with inflated roaming bills. For travellers and multi-line users, it’s basically a must-have feature. So check your device, grab a compatible plan, and enjoy the freedom that comes with a digital SIM.