How to install an eSIM on Android (Samsung, Pixel and others)

Updated 30 October 2026

Most Android phones from 2020 on support eSIM. Menu names differ a little between brands, so below are the exact paths for Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel, and what to look for on others.

Before you start

Check your phone supports eSIM: dial *#06#. If you see an EID number, it does.
Your phone isn't locked to a carrier.
You're on Wi-Fi, and the QR code is open on another screen (a laptop or a printout).

Samsung Galaxy

Settings → Connections → SIM manager → Add eSIM.
Tap Scan QR code from service provider and scan the code.
Confirm to add the eSIM, and give it a name such as “Travel”.
In SIM manager, keep your usual SIM for calls, messages and (for now) mobile data.

Google Pixel

Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → Add SIM (or the + button).
Choose Download a SIM instead? → Next, and scan the QR code.
Confirm the download and name the new SIM, for example “Travel”.
Keep your usual SIM as the one for calls, texts and (for now) mobile data.

Other Android phones

Xiaomi, OnePlus, Motorola, Oppo and others use similar menus: look in Settings for SIM cards, SIM manager or Mobile network, then Add eSIM or Download SIM, and scan the QR code.

Can't scan? Choose Enter code instead (or similar) and type the full activation code from your order page, starting with LPA:1$.

When you land

Open the SIM settings (Samsung: Connections → SIM manager; Pixel: Network & internet → SIMs) and switch the travel eSIM on.
Set Mobile data to the travel eSIM.
Turn on Roaming for the travel eSIM (Samsung: Connections → Mobile networks → Data roaming). Keep roaming off on your usual SIM.
Switch Wi-Fi off and open a website to check.

If it doesn't connect

Turn Airplane mode on for 10 seconds, then off.
Check that roaming is on for the travel eSIM and that mobile data is set to it.
In the travel eSIM's settings, turn off automatic network selection and pick a network manually.
Restart the phone. Still nothing? Write to us with your order email.

Questions

Can I install the eSIM before my trip?

Yes. Install at home on Wi-Fi; the plan starts only when you first connect at your destination.

Does it replace my SIM?

No. Your usual SIM stays in the phone for calls and texts; the eSIM is used for data abroad.

Can I delete the eSIM after the trip?

Better not: each eSIM can be installed only once. Turn it off, and next time add a new plan to the same eSIM.