Prerequisites

Before You Start

Make sure you have everything ready for a smooth CelleSIM eSIM installation experience.

Compatible Device

Your phone must support eSIM technology. Most smartphones from 2019 onwards are compatible, including iPhone XS+, Samsung S20+, Google Pixel 3+.

Check Settings → About

Unlocked Phone

Your device must be carrier-unlocked to use an eSIM from a different provider. Check with your original carrier if unsure.

Required for travel eSIMs

Stable WiFi Connection

You need an active internet connection to download and activate your eSIM profile. Ensure stable WiFi before starting.

Recommended

QR Code or Activation Details

Have your CelleSIM QR code ready (from email or CelleSIM app), or the SM-DP+ address and activation code for manual setup.

Check your email
Step-by-Step Guide

eSIM Installation Guide

Follow the interactive guide for your device type. Click each step to see details and watch the simulation. CelleSIM makes eSIM installation simple and straightforward.

iPhone / iPad
iPhone XS & newer, iPad Pro & Air
Android
Samsung, Google Pixel, Xiaomi & more
1

Open Settings

Open the Settings app on your iPhone and tap on Cellular (or Mobile Data in some regions).

Make sure you're connected to WiFi before proceeding.
2

Add eSIM

Tap Add eSIM or Add Cellular Plan. On iOS 16+, you may see "Set Up Cellular" option.

  • iOS 17+: Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM
  • iOS 12-16: Settings → Cellular → Add Cellular Plan
3

Scan QR Code

Choose Use QR Code and point your camera at the QR code provided by CelleSIM. The camera will automatically detect and scan it.

Can't scan? On iOS 17+, take a screenshot of the QR code, then tap "Open Photos" to select it.
4

Confirm & Activate

Review the cellular plan details and tap Continue. If prompted for a confirmation code, enter the one provided by CelleSIM.

  • Label your eSIM (e.g., "Travel", "Work")
  • Choose default line for calls if asked
  • Wait for activation to complete
5

Enable Data Roaming

Go back to Settings → Cellular, select your CelleSIM eSIM, and enable Data Roaming. This is essential for CelleSIM travel eSIMs!

Important: Turn OFF data roaming on your primary SIM to avoid charges!
Settings
Wi-Fi
Connected
Cellular
👆 Tap here
Cellular
Add eSIM
👆 Tap here
Scan QR Code
Place QR code in frame
📱
Plan Detected
CelleSIM Travel plan
ready to install
Continue
eSIM Active!
Enable Data Roaming
to connect
1

Open Settings

Open Settings on your Android device. Navigate to Connections or Network & Internet (varies by manufacturer).

  • Samsung: Settings → Connections → SIM Manager
  • Google Pixel: Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs
  • Xiaomi: Settings → SIM Cards & Mobile Networks
2

Add eSIM / Mobile Plan

Look for Add eSIM, Add Mobile Plan, or the + icon. Tap it to start the eSIM installation process.

On Samsung devices, you might see "Add eSIM" under SIM Manager.
3

Scan QR Code

Select Scan carrier QR code and point your camera at the CelleSIM QR code. The phone will automatically detect and process it.

For manual installation, select Enter code manually or Add manually instead and enter:

  • SM-DP+ Address
  • Activation Code
4

Download & Activate

Tap Connect or Download to install the CelleSIM eSIM profile. Wait for the download to complete - this usually takes 30-60 seconds.

  • Tap "Confirm" when prompted
  • Wait for "Download complete" message
  • Your CelleSIM eSIM is now installed!
5

Enable Data Roaming

Go to your CelleSIM eSIM settings and enable Data Roaming. Also ensure the CelleSIM eSIM is set as your Mobile Data source.

Samsung users: Enable "Allow mobile data switching" for seamless connectivity.
Settings
Network & internet
👆 Tap here
Connected devices
Bluetooth
SIM Manager
Add eSIM
👆 Tap here
Scan QR Code
Place QR code in frame
📲
Profile Detected
CelleSIM travel plan
ready to download
Download
eSIM Active!
Enable Data Roaming
to connect
Installation Methods

Choose Your Installation Method

There are multiple ways to install your CelleSIM eSIM. Choose the method that works best for your situation.

QR Code Scan

The fastest method. Scan the CelleSIM QR code with your phone's camera. Works when you have another device or printout to display the code.

Recommended

Direct / In-App

Install directly from the CelleSIM app. The app handles everything automatically - just tap "Install eSIM" and you're ready to go.

Easiest

Manual Entry

Enter the SM-DP+ address and activation code manually. Use this when you can't scan a QR code or prefer typing the details.

Alternative

Carrier Activation

For carrier eSIMs, activation may happen automatically or through your carrier's app/website. Contact your carrier for specific instructions.

Carrier-specific
Troubleshooting

eSIM Problems & Solutions

Having issues with your CelleSIM eSIM? Find quick solutions to the most common problems below. Our support team is always ready to help.

eSIM Won't Activate

Possible Causes

Device is carrier-locked to another provider
No internet connection during activation
QR code has already been used (one-time use)

Solutions

1 Check if your phone is unlocked: Settings → General → About → Carrier Lock
2 Ensure you have a stable WiFi connection before scanning
3 Contact CelleSIM support for a new QR code if already used

No Network / No Signal

Possible Causes

Data roaming is not enabled on the eSIM
eSIM not set as mobile data source
You're not in the eSIM's coverage area

Solutions

1 Enable Data Roaming: Settings → Cellular → [Your eSIM] → Data Roaming ON
2 Set eSIM as cellular data: Settings → Cellular → Cellular Data → Select eSIM
3 Restart your device in Airplane Mode, then turn it back on

Invalid QR Code Error

Possible Causes

QR code is blurry or partially visible
QR code has expired
Device camera can't focus properly

Solutions

1 Ensure QR code is clearly visible with good lighting
2 Try manual entry instead: Enter the SM-DP+ address and activation code
3 Contact CelleSIM support for a new QR code if expired

eSIM Stuck on Activating

Possible Causes

Poor or interrupted internet connection
Server-side issues with the eSIM provider
Device software needs updating

Solutions

1 Wait 5-10 minutes - activation can sometimes take time
2 Restart your device and check eSIM status
3 Update iOS/Android to the latest version

Data Not Working

Possible Causes

Incorrect APN (Access Point Name) settings
Data allowance has been exhausted
Network congestion in your area

Solutions

1 Check APN settings: Settings → Cellular → [eSIM] → Cellular Data Network
2 Reset network settings: Settings → General → Reset → Reset Network Settings
3 Check data balance in the CelleSIM app or your account dashboard

Can't Download eSIM

Possible Causes

Maximum eSIM profiles reached (varies by device)
Device has reached eSIM download limit
Software compatibility issues

Solutions

1 Delete unused eSIM profiles: Settings → Cellular → [eSIM] → Delete eSIM
2 Update your device to the latest software version
3 Restart device and try again with stable WiFi
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to the most common eSIM questions from our CelleSIM customers worldwide.

All Basics Setup Usage Technical
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card built directly into your device. Unlike traditional physical SIM cards that you insert into your phone, an eSIM is already integrated into the device's hardware. You can activate cellular plans digitally by scanning a QR code or entering activation details, without needing to physically swap cards. This technology allows for greater flexibility, including the ability to store multiple carrier profiles and switch between them easily.
How do I know if my phone supports eSIM?
iPhone: Go to Settings → General → About. Look for "Digital SIM" section with an EID number. All iPhones from iPhone XS (2018) onwards support eSIM.

Android: Go to Settings → About Phone. Look for EID or IMEI2. Alternatively, check Settings → Network → SIM Manager for "Add eSIM" option.

Most smartphones from 2019 onwards support eSIM, including Samsung Galaxy S20+, Google Pixel 3+, and many Xiaomi, Oppo, and OnePlus models.
Can I use eSIM and physical SIM at the same time?
Yes! Most modern smartphones support Dual SIM functionality, allowing you to use both a physical SIM and an eSIM simultaneously. This is perfect for travelers who want to keep their home number active while using a local travel eSIM for data. You can configure which SIM to use for calls, texts, and data separately in your device settings.
When should I install my travel eSIM?
We recommend installing your CelleSIM eSIM 1-2 days before your trip while you still have WiFi access. This ensures you're ready to connect immediately upon arrival. The eSIM won't activate until you reach your destination and enable data roaming. Installing early gives you time to troubleshoot any issues before you travel.
Will I get a phone number with my eSIM?
CelleSIM travel eSIMs are data-only and don't include a phone number. However, you can still make calls and send messages using apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, Telegram, or Zoom over your data connection. Your existing phone number on your physical SIM will continue to receive calls and texts (standard roaming rates may apply unless disabled).
Can I use my eSIM for hotspot/tethering?
Yes, CelleSIM eSIM plans fully support personal hotspot/tethering, allowing you to share your data connection with other devices like laptops or tablets. This is perfect for working remotely while traveling. Hotspot usage typically consumes more data than regular mobile usage, so keep an eye on your data balance in the CelleSIM app.
What happens to my eSIM if I reset my phone?
If you perform a factory reset or erase all content, your eSIM profile will be permanently deleted. Unlike physical SIM cards, you cannot simply re-insert an eSIM. You'll need to contact CelleSIM support for a new QR code to reinstall the eSIM. Always back up your eSIM details before resetting your device.
How many eSIMs can I have on my phone?
The number of eSIM profiles you can store varies by device. Most iPhones can store 8 or more eSIM profiles, while Android devices typically support 5-10 profiles. However, only one or two can be active at a time (depending on whether your device is Dual eSIM capable). You can easily switch between stored profiles without reinstalling.
Is eSIM more secure than physical SIM?
Yes, eSIMs offer enhanced security benefits. Since eSIMs cannot be physically removed, they're protected against SIM swap attacks where criminals steal your number by replacing your SIM card. eSIMs are harder to clone and support remote locking features. If your phone is lost or stolen, your eSIM profile remains secure within the device.
Can I transfer my eSIM to a new phone?
For iPhone to iPhone: iOS 16+ supports eSIM Quick Transfer, allowing you to transfer your eSIM directly during device setup without contacting your carrier.

For carrier eSIMs: Contact your carrier to transfer the eSIM to your new device.

For CelleSIM travel eSIMs: Contact CelleSIM support for transfer options or a new eSIM QR code for your new device.

Want to learn more about eSIM technology and travel tips from CelleSIM experts?

Visit CelleSIM Blog →

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