I Have Only One Phone, How Do I Scan the QR Code? (eSIM Installation Guide)

You’ve purchased an eSIM for your upcoming trip, and the QR code has arrived in your email. But there’s a catch: The QR code is on your phone screen, but your camera is on the back! You can’t take a picture of your own screen, right?

Don't worry, you are not alone. We call this the "Single Device Paradox," and the solution is much simpler than you think. You don’t need a second phone or a computer screen.

Here are 3 guaranteed ways to install your eSIM in seconds using just one device.

Method 1: The "Magic Touch" for iPhone Users (iOS 17.4 and later)

This is the easiest way! If your iPhone is up to date, you don’t even need to go into settings.

Apple has introduced a lifesaver feature in recent updates. You don't need to take a screenshot or forward the email.

Step-by-Step:

1. Open the email we sent you or the page on our website displaying the QR code.

2. Long Press (tap and hold) directly on the QR code image.

3. In the menu that pops up, you will see an option that says "Add eSIM".

4. Tap it, and your phone will automatically launch the setup wizard.

Method 2: The "Screenshot" Method for Android & Older iOS

Using a Samsung, Google Pixel, Xiaomi, or an older iPhone? The solution is in your Gallery.

Modern QR code scanners on phones can scan images from your gallery, not just through the camera lens.

Step-by-Step:

1. Capture: Take a screenshot of the page showing the QR code.

2. Go to Settings:

   • Samsung: Settings > Connections > SIM Manager > Add eSIM.

   • Google/Pixel: Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > Add SIM.

3. Select: Choose "Scan QR code from service provider" or "Set up an eSIM".

4. Upload: When the camera opens, don't try to scan anything. Look for a small "Gallery" or "Image" icon (usually in the corner). Tap it.

5. Select the screenshot you just took. Your phone will read the code from the image automatically.

Method 3: Manual Entry (The Guaranteed Backup)

Technology can be stubborn sometimes. If the methods above don't work, this one works 100% of the time.

In the details we sent you, you'll see more than just a QR code; there are two lines of text called the SM-DP+ Address and the Activation Code. These are simply the text version of the QR code.

Pro Tip: These codes are very long. Never try to type them by hand. We will Copy & Paste!

Step-by-Step:

1. Copy the SM-DP+ Address from our website/email.

2. Go to Settings > Cellular (or Network) > Add eSIM and select "Enter Details Manually".

3. Paste the address into the first box.

4. Go back to our site/email and copy the Activation Code.

5. Return to settings, paste the code into the second box, and tap "Next/Continue".

Checklist After Installation

You've installed it, but you might not get internet immediately. Don't panic—check these settings:

• ✅ Turn on Roaming: Go to your new eSIM settings and ensure "Data Roaming" is switched ON. (You can keep it off for your main home line).

• ✅ Select the Line: Make sure your phone uses the new eSIM for "Cellular Data".

• ✅ Just Wait: If you haven't arrived in the destination country yet, it is normal to see "No Service" or "Activating...". The signal will connect automatically once you land.

Still having trouble? Our support team is here to help you the moment you can't get that code to scan. Safe travels!