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How to install eSIM on iPhone/iPad

iPhone / iPad eSIM Installation Guide

Written by Michael Peftiev
Updated today

Check eSIM Compatibility

Before installing an eSIM, make sure your device supports eSIM.

  1. Open Settings.

  2. Tap Cellular or Mobile Data.

  3. Look for Add eSIM or Add Cellular Plan.

If this option is available, your device supports eSIM.


Method 1: Install Using QR Code

Step 1: Install eSIM

  1. Open Settings.

  2. Tap Cellular / Mobile Data.

  3. Tap Add eSIM or Set Up Cellular / Mobile Service.

  4. Select Use QR Code.

  5. Scan the QR code.

    Optional (iOS 17.3 and earlier)

    • Take a screenshot of the QR code.

    • Tap Open Photos.

    • Select the screenshot and tap Next.

  6. Tap Continue and wait for the eSIM to activate.
    Activation may take a few minutes.

  7. Tap Done when installation is complete.

  8. Choose a label for your new eSIM plan.

  9. Select your default line for calls and messages, then tap Continue.

  10. Choose which cellular plan to use with iMessage and FaceTime, then tap Continue.

  11. Select your new eSIM for Mobile Data, then tap Continue.


Step 2: Enable Data, Calls, and Text

  1. Go to Settings → Cellular / Mobile Data.

  2. Select the newly installed eSIM.

  3. Enable Turn On This Line.

  4. Select your eSIM for Cellular / Mobile Data.

  5. Tap Default Voice Line, then select your eSIM for calls and messages.

  6. Tap Network Selection.

  7. Turn Automatic off if needed and select a supported network manually.

  8. Enable Data Roaming for the eSIM.


Step 3: Configure APN (Optional)

  1. Go to Settings → Cellular / Mobile Data.

  2. Select your new eSIM plan.

  3. Tap Cellular Data Network.

  4. Enter the APN settings provided by your network provider.

  5. Save the settings.


Method 2: Manual Installation

Device-Specific Note (iPhone 15 Series)

For iPhone 15 models, you may receive a direct Install eSIM link from your provider.

  1. Ensure your device is connected to Wi-Fi.

  2. Open the eSIM delivery page provided by your provider.

  3. Tap Install eSIM or the installation button on the page.

  4. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete installation.

⚠️ Note:
eSIM installation can typically be performed only once and on one device.


Step 1: Install eSIM Manually

  1. Open Settings.

  2. Tap Cellular / Mobile Data.

  3. Tap Add eSIM or Set Up Cellular / Mobile Service.

  4. Select Enter Details Manually.

  5. Enter the SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code.

  6. Tap Next.

  7. Tap Continue and wait for the eSIM to activate.

  8. Tap Done once installation is completed.

  9. Choose a label for your new eSIM plan.

  10. Select your default line for calls and messages, then tap Continue.

  11. Choose the plan to use with iMessage and FaceTime, then tap Continue.

  12. Select your new eSIM for Mobile Data, then tap Continue.


Step 2: Enable Data, Calls, and Text

  1. Go to Settings → Cellular / Mobile Data.

  2. Select the installed eSIM.

  3. Enable Turn On This Line.

  4. Select your eSIM for Mobile Data.

  5. Tap Default Voice Line, then select your eSIM.

  6. Tap Network Selection.

  7. Turn Automatic off if needed and manually choose a supported network.

  8. Enable Data Roaming.


Step 3: Configure APN (Optional)

  1. Go to Settings → Cellular / Mobile Data.

  2. Select your eSIM plan.

  3. Tap Cellular Data Network.

  4. Enter the APN settings provided by your network provider.

  5. Save the settings.

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