Back to All Guides
Setup & Activation 6 min read August 2026

How to Install and Activate an eSIM on iPhone and Android

Installing a digital travel eSIM on your smartphone takes less than two minutes. Follow these step-by-step instructions for iPhone and Android devices.

Direct Summary
To install a travel eSIM, connect to Wi-Fi, open your device Settings, navigate to Cellular / Mobile Data, tap "Add eSIM" (or "Add Mobile Plan"), and scan the QR code provided in your UniSimCard confirmation email or app.
Key Takeaways
Always install your eSIM over a stable Wi-Fi connection prior to flight departure.
Label the line "Travel Data" in your settings for easy management.
Never delete your eSIM profile if experiencing temporary connection issues.
Enable Data Roaming for the UniSimCard eSIM line upon arrival at your destination.

How to Install an eSIM on Apple iPhone (iOS)

Follow these steps on iPhone XS, iPhone 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, or newer:

  • 1. Connect to a stable Wi-Fi network.
  • 2. Open Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data).
  • 3. Tap Add eSIM (or Add Cellular Plan).
  • 4. Select Use QR Code and frame the UniSimCard QR code on screen.
  • 5. Label your new line as "Travel" or "UniSimCard".
  • 6. Set Default Voice Line to your Primary SIM and Mobile Data to UniSimCard.
  • 7. Turn Data Roaming ON for the UniSimCard line upon arriving at your destination.

How to Install an eSIM on Android Devices (Samsung, Google Pixel, Xiaomi)

Exact menu names vary slightly by manufacturer, but the general flow remains consistent across Android 10+:

  • Samsung Galaxy: Settings > Connections > SIM Manager > Add eSIM > Scan QR Code.
  • Google Pixel: Settings > Network & internet > SIMs (+) > Download a SIM instead > Scan QR Code.
  • Xiaomi / Motorola: Settings > SIM cards & mobile networks > Add eSIM > Scan QR Code.
  • Set Mobile Data preference to the newly added UniSimCard profile.
  • Turn Data Roaming ON for the UniSimCard profile when you land.

Critical Installation Checklist

To ensure a seamless connection without issues, keep these four golden rules in mind:

  • Ensure your phone is unlocked by your home carrier.
  • Do NOT delete your eSIM profile after installation if troubleshooting; profiles cannot be re-scanned once deleted.
  • Keep stable Wi-Fi active during QR code scan.
  • Enable Data Roaming strictly on the UniSimCard line when you land.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I cannot scan the QR code with my phone camera?

You can use Manual Installation. Copy the SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code provided in your UniSimCard confirmation email and paste them directly into your device eSIM setup screen.

Can I transfer an installed eSIM to another phone?

Prepaid travel eSIM profiles are single-installation passes tied to the device where they are first scanned.

Related Travel Guides

Ready for Your Trip?

Select your destination to view instant high-speed data plans.

UniSimCard Mobile App
Track real-time data usage and top up anytime on iOS & Android.