eSIM Guide

Switch to Virtual SIM Card: The Complete Guide to iPhone eSIM Activation

Written by Rebecca
April 27, 2023
3 mins

Welcome to the exciting world of eSIM, the embedded SIM that's changing the game! Say goodbye to the hassle of physical SIM cards and embrace the future of digital SIM technology. In this guide, we'll walk you through the step-by-step process of activating, setting up manually, activating abroad, and removing your eSIM when necessary. And as a bonus, we'll share some fun tips and tricks to help you along the way!

Before we dive into the exciting world of eSIM, make sure your iPhone is:

How to Activate eSIM on iPhone:

Ready to activate your eSIM? Here's how:

  1. If you have a QR code provided by your carrier, scan it with your iPhone camera. 
  2. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the activation process.
How to activate eSIM on iPhone - Steps

Manual Setup of eSIM:

If the QR code doesn’t work, or you prefer to set up your eSIM manually:

  1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
  2. Tap on Cellular or Mobile Data.
  3. Select Add Cellular Plan.
  4. Choose Enter Details Manually.
  5. Input the required information provided by your carrier.
  6. Follow the prompts to complete the activation process.

If you're having trouble activating eSIM, ensure that your device is up to date and that your carrier supports eSIM activation.

After activating an eSIM, iOS15 or older version users may have to set it as the default line for cellular data if you want to use it now; or you can use it as a secondary line if you plan to activate and use it at a later time. Your data plan will not start until you connect to the local networks.

How Long Does An eSIM Take to Activate?

The activation time of your eSIM can vary depending on your carrier. Some carriers may activate your eSIM immediately, while others may take up to 2 hours to complete the process.

Activation of eSIM Abroad:

To activate your eSIM abroad, it's recommended that you install your new eSIM a day or two before leaving on your trip and activate it once you arrive at your destination. This way, you can ensure a stable internet connection and get connected to the internet as soon as you land without any delays.

This way, you can ensure a stable internet connection to download and install everything without any interruptions. By doing so, you can get connected to the internet as soon as you land without any delays.

To Verify Your eSIM Activation:

  1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
  2. Tap on "Cellular".
  3. Select the active plan from the list of available plans.
  4. If the plan is active, then eSIM has been successfully activated.

Having Trouble Activating your eSIM on iPhone?

It could be because your device is not up to date, or your carrier doesn't support eSIM activation. So make sure your iPhone has the latest software update and contact your carrier to see if they support eSIM activation.

Removing eSIM:

There are various reasons to remove eSIM, such as switching carriers, needing to replace a damaged device, or if you no longer require the plan:

  1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone
  2. Tap on the "Cellular" option
  3. Tap on the active plan which you want to remove
  4. Tap on the "Remove Cellular Plan" option
  5. Tap on "Remove" to confirm the action

By following these simple steps, you can activate your eSIM on your iPhone, set it up manually, activate it abroad, and remove it when necessary. With eSIM activation, you can enjoy the convenience and flexibility of having multiple phone plans on one device.

Interested in eSIM plans? Check out popular Textr eSIM plans

About the Writer

Written by Rebecca

As a blogger, traveler, and food lover, I'm always on the hunt for new taste sensations. I'm excited to share my tips and tricks to help you have the most memorable travels. Come along and let's savor the journey!

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