The Ultimate Guide to Installing Your Cellesim eSIM (iPhone & Android): A Step-by-Step Walkthrough

Why Switching to eSIM is the Smartest Travel Move

The days of hunting for a SIM card vendor at a foreign airport are over. With an eSIM (embedded SIM), you can download a digital data plan directly to your phone, eliminating physical cards entirely. It is cheaper, faster, and more secure.

However, we know that trying new technology can be intimidating. You might be asking: "Will I lose my phone number?" or "Is it difficult to set up?"

The answer is simple: It is easy, and you keep your number. This guide will walk you through the entire process with Cellesim, ensuring you are connected the moment your plane lands.

Before You Start: The Pre-Flight Checklist

Before you attempt to scan your QR code, you must ensure your device is ready.

1. Check Device Compatibility: Your phone must be eSIM-compatible. Most modern phones (iPhone XR and newer, Samsung S20 and newer, Google Pixel 3 and newer) support this technology. You can verify your specific model on our eSIM Supported Devices List.

2. Ensure Your Phone is Unlocked: This is the most critical step. If your phone is "carrier locked" (tied to a specific network like AT&T or Verizon), you cannot use an eSIM from another provider. Contact your carrier to unlock it before you travel.

3. Stable Internet Connection: You need Wi-Fi or mobile data to install the eSIM profile. We recommend doing this at home or in the office before you leave for the airport.

Part 1: How to Install Cellesim eSIM on iPhone (iOS)

Apple has made the process very intuitive. Follow these steps to get your data plan ready.

Step 1: Add the eSIM

• Open your Settings app.

• Tap on Cellular (or Mobile Data).

• Tap Add eSIM (or Add Cellular Plan).

• Select Use QR Code.

• Scan the QR code you received in your Cellesim confirmation email. (If you cannot scan it because it is on the same device, select "Enter Details Manually" and copy-paste the activation code sent to you).

Step 2: Label Your Plans

• After the scan is complete, your iPhone will ask you to label the new line.

• We recommend labeling your main SIM as "Primary" (or Home) and your new Cellesim eSIM as "Travel" or the name of the country (e.g., "Europe").

• This helps you distinguish between your home number and your travel data.

Step 3: Configure Default Lines (Crucial Step)

Your iPhone will ask you which line to use for calls and data. Set this up correctly to avoid roaming fees from your home carrier:

• Default Line for Voice/SMS: Select your Primary line. (This ensures you keep your WhatsApp number and can receive 2FA codes from your bank).

• iMessage & FaceTime: Select your Primary line.

• Cellular Data: Select your Travel (Cellesim) line.

• Allow Cellular Data Switching: Turn this OFF. (If you leave this on, your phone might switch back to your home carrier if the signal is weak, causing expensive roaming charges).

Part 2: How to Install Cellesim eSIM on Android (Samsung & Google Pixel)

Android menus can vary slightly depending on the brand, but the core process is the same.

For Samsung Devices:

1. Go to Settings > Connections.

2. Tap on SIM Manager.

3. Select Add eSIM.

4. Tap Scan QR code from service provider.

5. Scan the Cellesim QR code or tap "Enter activation code" if you are doing it manually.

For Google Pixel Devices:

1. Go to Settings > Network & internet.

2. Tap the plus sign (+) next to SIMs.

3. Select Download a SIM instead?.

4. Follow the prompts to scan the QR code.

Managing Your Android Settings

Once installed, you will see two SIMs in your manager.

• Calls: Set to your home SIM.

• Messages: Set to your home SIM.

• Mobile Data: Set to Cellesim.

• Data Roaming: Ensure Data Roaming is turned ON for the Cellesim eSIM, but OFF for your home SIM.

Part 3: Arrival & Activation (When You Land)

You have installed the eSIM at home, but it likely won't connect until you arrive in the destination country. Here is what to do when your plane lands:

1. Turn Off Airplane Mode.

2. Go to your Settings and select your Cellesim line.

3. Turn On "Data Roaming" for the Cellesim line. (Note: This is required for the eSIM to connect to local networks like Vodafone, Orange, or AT&T. Do not worry, Cellesim does not charge extra roaming fees; it is a prepaid plan).

4. Wait 1-2 minutes for the phone to find the signal. You should see 4G, LTE, or 5G in the status bar.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When should I buy and install my eSIM? We recommend buying your eSIM a few days before your trip. You can install it at home. The validity period (e.g., 7 days, 30 days) typically only begins once the eSIM connects to the network in the destination country, not when you install it.

Can I keep my WhatsApp number? Yes. When you open WhatsApp, it might ask if you want to switch numbers. Select "Keep Existing Number." This way, you use Cellesim for data, but all your chats and contacts remain the same.

Can I share my internet (Hotspot)? Yes, most Cellesim plans support mobile hotspot/tethering. You can share your data with your laptop or travel companions.

How much money do I save? Carriers often charge $10 per day for international passes. For a 15-day trip, that is $150. A Cellesim plan might cost you around $20 to $30. That is a savings of over $100 per trip.

Ready to Connect?

Now that you know how easy it is to install, stop paying expensive roaming fees. Choose your destination and get your instant data plan today.

Find your destination and buy your eSIM here

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