How to Set Up an eSIM on Samsung Galaxy and Android

Why eSIMs make Android travel easier

If you’ve ever landed after a long flight and wrestled with tiny plastic SIM cards, an eSIM feels like magic. It lets you download a mobile data plan digitally—no swapping trays, no store visits. For travelers, that means you can install a plan before take-off, flip it on at the destination, and be online instantly.

This guide walks you through setting up an eSIM on Samsung Galaxy phones and other Android devices, with step-by-step instructions, common pitfalls, and pro tips. We’ll reference IQ Travel’s eSIM service where it’s useful, but the steps apply to most eSIM providers.

What you need before you start

An eSIM-capable, carrier-unlocked Android phone (see compatibility notes below)
A stable Wi‑Fi connection for activation
Your eSIM details:
QR code OR
Manual activation info (SM-DP+ address and activation code), plus APN if provided
A charged battery (30% or more)

If you buy an IQ Travel eSIM, you’ll receive an email with both a QR code and manual activation details. Keep that email handy or save a screenshot.

Check device compatibility and unlock status

Not every Android model supports eSIM, and some carrier-branded variants disable it. Before you buy:

Confirm your model supports eSIM:

Samsung Galaxy: Go to Settings > Connections > SIM manager. If you see “Add eSIM,” your device supports it. Older One UI versions may show “SIM card manager” instead.
Pixels and others: Go to Settings > Network & internet > SIMs. If you see “Add eSIM” or “Download a SIM instead,” you’re good.

Make sure your phone is unlocked:

If you bought the phone from a carrier, contact them to confirm it’s unlocked for international use.
Dual-SIM devices can use your physical SIM and an eSIM together as long as the phone is unlocked.

Watch out for regional or carrier limitations:

Some models sold in certain countries disable eSIM.
A few carrier variants only allow eSIM with that carrier.

If in doubt, test: if “Add eSIM” is missing, the feature might be disabled, or your software needs an update.

Understand the eSIM terms you’ll see

QR code: A scannable image that loads your eSIM profile details automatically.
SM-DP+ address: The server where your eSIM profile is hosted.
Activation code: A unique code paired with the SM-DP+ address to download the profile.
EID: A unique number for your device’s eSIM chip (often used for carrier transfers; not usually needed for travel eSIMs).
APN: Access Point Name—ensures your phone uses the correct data gateway. Many eSIMs configure this automatically; some require manual entry.

With IQ Travel, you’ll get a QR plus the SM-DP+ and activation code, and APN info if needed.

Prepare your phone for a smooth install

Update Android/One UI to the latest version.
Back up important data.
Ensure strong Wi‑Fi (avoid captive portals like “airport_free_wifi” during activation).
Disable VPNs and private DNS while activating.
Have your eSIM email or printout visible on a second screen (or print it).

How to set up an eSIM on Samsung Galaxy (One UI)

Samsung’s menus vary slightly by version. The core flow is the same.

Path to add an eSIM

One UI 6 / 5:
Settings > Connections > SIM manager > Add eSIM
Older One UI:
Settings > Connections > SIM card manager > Add mobile plan or Add eSIM

If you don’t see Add eSIM, update your software, confirm your model supports eSIM, and check your unlock status.

Option A: Install by scanning a QR code

Go to Settings > Connections > SIM manager > Add eSIM.
Tap Scan QR code.
Point your camera at the QR code from your eSIM email.
Review the plan details (name may show as the provider, e.g., “IQ Travel” or network partner).
Tap Add or Install.
Wait for the download and installation to complete (stay on Wi‑Fi).
If prompted, set the eSIM as your mobile data line—or choose later.

Option B: Install by entering an activation code

Use this if you can’t scan the QR (e.g., printing issues):

Go to Settings > Connections > SIM manager > Add eSIM.
Select Enter activation code or Use activation code.
Enter the SM-DP+ address and activation code from your eSIM email exactly as shown.
Proceed to download/install. Keep Wi‑Fi on.

After installation: set your data preferences

In Settings > Connections > SIM manager:

Mobile data: Choose your eSIM for data while abroad.
Calls and Messages: You can keep these on your physical SIM from home if you want to receive SMS and calls.

Toggle Data roaming ON for the eSIM.
Turn Data roaming OFF for your home SIM to avoid accidental charges.
Optional: Enable Mobile data switching on Samsung if you want the phone to temporarily use the other SIM when your chosen data SIM has no signal (be careful—this can incur roaming charges on your home SIM).

APN settings on Samsung (if needed)

Most travel eSIMs auto-configure APN. If you can’t get data:

Go to Settings > Connections > Mobile networks > Access Point Names.
Tap Add.
Enter the APN name and value exactly as provided by your eSIM provider (IQ Travel will include APN details in your confirmation if manual setup is needed).
Save, then select the new APN.
Toggle Airplane mode ON, wait 10 seconds, then OFF.

How to set up an eSIM on other Android phones

Menu names vary by brand, but the flow is similar.

Google Pixel (Android 13/14)

Settings > Network & internet > SIMs.
Tap Add SIM > Download a SIM instead.
Scan the QR code or select Need help? > Enter code manually to input SM-DP+ and activation code.
Install and set the eSIM as your data SIM if desired.
Toggle Roaming ON for the eSIM.

APN (if needed): Settings > Network & internet > SIMs > [Your eSIM] > Access Point Names.

Motorola, OnePlus, Oppo/Realme, Xiaomi

Look for Settings > Network & internet (or SIM & network) > eSIM or SIMs > Add eSIM.
Choose Scan QR or Enter code manually.
After install, select eSIM as Preferred SIM for data and enable Data roaming for the eSIM.

APN menus are typically under Mobile network > Access Point Names.

The best way to use an eSIM while traveling

Many travelers want data abroad while keeping their home number active for SMS and two-factor codes. Here’s a reliable setup:

Before you fly:

Install your eSIM at home over Wi‑Fi (most IQ Travel plans activate on first connection in the destination, not on install—but check your plan’s activation rule).
Leave your home SIM as default for calls and texts.
Do not switch mobile data to the eSIM yet.

After landing:

Turn off Airplane mode.
Switch Mobile data to your eSIM.
Turn ON Data roaming for the eSIM and OFF for your home SIM.
Confirm APN is set correctly.
If you use messaging apps (WhatsApp, iMessage, Telegram), they’ll keep your existing number and use eSIM data seamlessly.

Cost control tips:

Set a data warning/limit: Settings > Connections/Network & internet > Data usage.
Enable Data Saver on Android to reduce background data use.
If your plan includes 5G but speeds are unstable, try forcing 4G/LTE for reliability.

With IQ Travel’s data eSIM, hotspot/tethering is supported on many plans—great for laptops and tablets. Always check your specific plan details.

Troubleshooting: common issues and quick fixes

“Add eSIM” is missing or greyed out

Update software (Settings > Software update).
Confirm your exact model supports eSIM (some regional/carrier variants disable it).
Check that your phone is unlocked.
Restart the phone.

QR code won’t scan

Increase screen brightness on the device showing the QR.
Hold the camera steady and fill the frame.
Use the manual activation option (SM-DP+ + code).
Ensure you’re on trusted Wi‑Fi (no captive logins).

“Activation code invalid” or can’t download

Double-check you entered the SM-DP+ address and activation code exactly (case sensitive).
Make sure the code hasn’t already been used on another device (most travel eSIMs are single-use).
Temporarily disable VPN and Private DNS.
Try a different Wi‑Fi network.
Contact your eSIM provider’s support. With IQ Travel, reply to your order email or use the support channel noted in your confirmation.

eSIM installed but no data

Confirm Mobile data is set to your eSIM in SIM manager.
Turn ON Data roaming for the eSIM.
Check APN; enter it manually if provided.
Toggle Airplane mode ON/OFF.
Reboot the phone.
Manually select a network:
Samsung: Settings > Connections > Mobile networks > Network operators > Search networks, then pick a supported partner.
Force LTE/4G if 5G is patchy:
Samsung: Settings > Connections > Mobile networks > Network mode > LTE/3G/2G (Auto).
Disable any battery/data saver that restricts background data if your apps seem offline.

Slow speeds or unstable connection

Move to an area with better coverage (indoors can be weak).
Switch between 5G and 4G to see which is more stable.
Manually lock to a different partner network if allowed by your plan.
Clear VPN/proxy settings.

Hotspot/tethering not working

Confirm your plan permits tethering (many IQ Travel plans do; check your plan page).
Try toggling hotspot OFF/ON and rebooting.
Ensure APN type includes “dun” if your provider specifies a custom APN.

SMS and voice issues

Most travel eSIMs are data-only; use OTT apps (WhatsApp, FaceTime, Signal, Google Voice, Skype) for calls and messages over data.
Keep your physical/home SIM active for receiving SMS codes, but turn OFF its data roaming to avoid charges.

Advanced tips and good-to-know details

Install at home, activate on arrival

Many eSIM plans only start the clock when the eSIM first connects in the destination. Installing at home ensures you won’t be troubleshooting on the tarmac.
Read your plan notes: some plans start upon installation or within a set window after purchase.

Keep your eSIM profile after your trip (if reusable)

You can usually Disable a profile without deleting it if you plan to top up later.
If the plan is truly one-time-use, you can delete it:
Samsung: Settings > Connections > SIM manager > [Your eSIM] > Remove.
Deleting a profile typically cannot be undone without a new purchase.

Multiple eSIM profiles

Many Android phones can store multiple eSIM profiles but only use one at a time (varies by model).
Label each profile clearly (e.g., “IQ Japan Oct 2026”) to avoid confusion.

Finding your EID and ICCID

EID (for eSIM chip): Settings > About phone > Status information > EID.
ICCID (SIM number) often appears after install under SIM manager > [Your eSIM].

These can help support diagnose issues if needed.

Security and privacy

Treat your QR code as sensitive—anyone who scans it can claim the eSIM.
If your phone is lost, your eSIM can’t be physically removed, which is a plus. Use Find My Device to lock or erase.

Step-by-step quick reference

Samsung (One UI 6/5)

Settings > Connections > SIM manager > Add eSIM
Scan QR or Use activation code
Set eSIM as Mobile data line
Turn Data roaming ON for eSIM; OFF for home SIM
Check APN; add manually if required

Pixel (Android 13/14)

Settings > Network & internet > SIMs > Add SIM > Download a SIM instead
Scan QR or Enter code manually
Set Preferred SIM for data = eSIM
Turn Roaming ON for eSIM
Verify APN

How IQ Travel fits into your setup

Simple install: You receive a QR code plus manual activation details (SM-DP+ and code) for flexibility.
Travel-first support: Plans are designed for international use; most activate on first connection at your destination.
Clear instructions: APN details and network tips are included if manual steps are required.
Hotspot on the go: Many plans support tethering so your laptop and tablet can share data—check the plan’s notes.

With IQ Travel eSIMs, a typical flow is: install over home Wi‑Fi before departure, leave your home SIM active for calls/SMS, switch mobile data to the eSIM when you land, and roam confidently.

Frequently asked questions

Can I move my travel eSIM to another phone?
Usually no. Most travel eSIMs are single-use and locked to the first device that installs them.

Will I lose my WhatsApp number?
No. WhatsApp (and similar apps) keep your existing number and just use whatever data connection is available.

Do I need to remove my physical SIM?
No. You can keep it in and choose which line handles data, calls, and SMS.

When does my plan start?
Often on first network connection in the destination. Always check your plan’s activation terms before installing.

What if my Android menus look different?
Search your Settings for “eSIM,” “Add eSIM,” or “SIMs.” The wording varies by brand and Android version, but the steps are similar.

Conclusion

Setting up an eSIM on Samsung Galaxy or other Android phones is straightforward once you know where to look: add the eSIM via Settings, install using a QR or activation code, select it for mobile data, and enable roaming. The real travel hack is preparing at home—install over Wi‑Fi before you fly, then just switch data to your eSIM when you land.

IQ Travel’s eSIMs come with both QR and manual activation details, plus clear APN information if you need it, making setup smooth even if airport Wi‑Fi is spotty. With a few minutes of prep and the steps above, you’ll step off the plane connected, ready to navigate, translate, ride, and share—no tiny SIM tools required.