How To Install & Activate eSIM on iPhone (Step-by-Step Guide), by UnlockRiver on YouTube. 3 min 50 s.
- Video length
- 3 min 50 s
- Time to do it
- 10 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 9
What you need
Steps
Check that your iPhone supports eSIM. Most models from iPhone XS, XR and newer do, but some regional versions do not. Connect to Wi-Fi before you begin.
Get your eSIM QR code or activation details from your provider. Save a screenshot or print the code so you can scan it from another screen.
Open Settings, tap Cellular (or Mobile Data), then tap Add eSIM or Add Cellular Plan.
To add the plan by hand, choose Enter Details Manually and type the SM-DP+ address and activation code your provider gave you.
To use the QR code, tap Use QR Code and point your camera at the code. Keep the phone steady until the profile is read.
Wait for the profile to install, then give the line a label such as Travel so you can tell it apart from your main number.
Turn on the new eSIM line and enable Data Roaming on it if your provider says the plan needs roaming.
Set the eSIM as your Mobile Data line. Turn off Allow Cellular Data Switching so your phone does not fall back to your main plan.
Turn off Wi-Fi and open a website to test the connection. Check your data balance in your provider's app or website.
Tips and common mistakes
Installing a profile and activating the plan are separate steps, so check with your provider when the plan's validity period actually starts.
Do not delete the eSIM after installing it unless your provider tells you to, as you may not be able to reinstall it yourself.
Keep your main line on for calls and texts while using the eSIM for data, if your phone allows two active lines.
For travel plans, install the eSIM before you fly but only switch the data line over when you arrive.
Questions
Do I need Wi-Fi to install an eSIM?
Yes, connect to Wi-Fi before adding the profile so the install does not use your data. Once it is installed, you can switch to the eSIM for mobile data.
How do I know the eSIM is installed?
Go back to Settings, then Cellular, and check that the new line appears in the list. If it is there, the profile is installed even if the plan has not started yet.
Why does my eSIM show no service?
Check that the line is turned on, that it is selected for Mobile Data, and that Data Roaming is enabled if your provider requires it. Then restart your iPhone and test again.
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.
