How To Activate eSIM with QR Code on iPhone - Full Guide, by How To BOZ on YouTube. 1 min 19 s.
- Video length
- 1 min 19 s
- Time to do it
- 10 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 8
What you need
Steps
Ask your carrier for an eSIM QR code before you start. Most send it by email or show it in your online account, and some hand out a printed card in store.
Show the QR code on a second device or print it out. You cannot scan it from the same iPhone screen you are setting up.
Connect your iPhone to Wi-Fi. Activation needs a data connection to reach the carrier servers, and Wi-Fi saves your mobile data.
Open Settings and tap Cellular. On some models and regions this menu is called Mobile Service or Mobile Data.
Tap Add eSIM. On older iOS versions the button reads Add Cellular Plan.
Hold the iPhone about 15 cm from the QR code and point the rear camera at it. Wait for the plan details or the eSIM Detected message to appear, then tap Continue.
Give the new line a label such as Work or Travel, then choose which line handles calls, messages and mobile data.
Wait a minute or two while the iPhone contacts the carrier. When signal bars and the carrier name appear, make a test call or load a web page to confirm it works.
Tips and common mistakes
If the camera will not read the code, tap Enter Details Manually and type the SM-DP+ address and activation code from the same carrier email.
Only scan a QR code from your own carrier account, since each code installs a plan linked to your details.
Keep the QR code until activation is confirmed, because some carriers ask for it again if the first attempt fails.
Turn on Data Roaming in the line settings when you are using a travel eSIM outside your home country.
Questions
Do I have to remove my physical SIM first?
No. The iPhone can store several eSIMs and keep a physical SIM in the tray. You choose which lines are switched on in Settings, Cellular.
How do I know the eSIM is active?
You will see a second line listed under Settings, Cellular with the carrier name and signal bars. A test call or a quick web page load confirms it.
Can I use the same QR code twice?
Usually not. Most codes work once only, so if you delete the plan you will need to request a new QR code from your carrier.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
