Set up eSIM: Your guide for iPhone, Samsung and Android

Setting up an eSIM is quick and easy. Here you'll learn how to activate your eSIM on iPhone, Samsung and other Android devices, and what you can do if it doesn't work right away.

18.09.2026 | Reading time: 4 minutes

• Preparation: Make sure you have a stable internet connection and keep your activation details ready.
• iPhone: You can add your eSIM directly via the mobile network settings.
• Android and Samsung: Depending on the manufacturer, you'll find the eSIM settings in different places.

You've purchased an eSIM and aren't sure how to set it up? This guide takes you through the setup process step by step on iPhone, Samsung and other Android devices.

Before you get started, make sure you're connected to the internet and have your activation details ready.

Set up an eSIM on iPhone

On iPhone, you can add your eSIM directly via the mobile network settings.
Here's how:

• Open «Settings».
• Tap «Mobile Service».
• Select «Add eSIM».
• Choose the option to use a QR code.
• Scan the QR code provided by your mobile provider.
• Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.
  
  

If you use multiple SIMs, you can then choose which line you want to use for mobile data, calls and messages.

Set up an eSIM on Samsung

On compatible Samsung Galaxy smartphones, you'll find the eSIM settings under SIM Manager.
Here's how:

• Open «Settings».
• Tap «Connections».
• Open «SIM Manager».
• Select «Add eSIM».
• Tap «Scan QR code».
• Scan the QR code provided by your mobile provider.
• Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup.
  
  

Depending on your Samsung model and software version, the names of the menu options may vary slightly.

Set up an eSIM on Android

On Android devices, the menu options vary depending on the manufacturer and software version. Below, you'll find instructions for Google Pixel as an example. On other devices, the eSIM setup may be located in a different submenu in the settings.
Here's how to set it up on a Google Pixel:

• Open «Settings».
• Tap «Network & internet».
• Select «SIMs».
• Tap «Add SIM».
• Select «Set up an eSIM».
• Follow the instructions on the screen.
  
  

Using a different Android smartphone? Search for «eSIM» or «SIM» in the settings. On many devices, this is the quickest way to find the right option.

What to do if your eSIM isn't working

You've set up your eSIM, but your smartphone isn't connecting to the mobile network?
These steps may help:

• Check in the settings whether your eSIM is activated.
• Make sure you're using the correct eSIM profile.
• Check which line you're using for mobile data.
• If you're using a roaming eSIM, make sure data roaming is activated.
• Make sure you have a stable internet connection.
• Restart your smartphone.
• Install any available software updates.
  
  

Good to know: Don't delete your eSIM profile right away. Depending on your mobile provider, you may need new activation details to install it again.

Need help with activation? You'll find step-by-step instructions in the yallo help article «Get started with and set up your eSIM».

FAQ: Set up an eSIM

Where can I get the QR code for my eSIM?
You'll receive the QR code from your mobile provider. Where it's provided depends on the provider. Keep your activation details until your eSIM has been fully set up.

Can I activate an eSIM without a QR code?
This is possible with certain smartphones and mobile providers. Some devices support direct activation or the transfer of an existing eSIM. You'll see which options are available during the setup process on your smartphone.

What happens to my eSIM when I get a new smartphone?
Whether you can transfer your eSIM directly or need to set it up again on your new smartphone depends on the device and mobile provider. Don't delete the eSIM from your old smartphone until the setup on your new device is complete.

Can I use an eSIM and a physical SIM at the same time?
Many current smartphones support an eSIM together with a physical SIM. This allows you to manage two mobile plans on one device, for example. Which SIMs can be active at the same time depends on your smartphone model.