How To Active An eSIM

So, you've ditched the plastic and gone digital - or you're just about to. Whether you're using your first eSIM or transferring your number to a new device, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about activating an eSIM.

We'll cover how eSIM activation works on iPhone, Android, and with gosimless, along with:

• What to check before you start
• Which phones support eSIM
• What to do if activation fails
• FAQs and security tips

Let's get started.

What is an eSIM and why are people switching?

An eSIM (short for embedded SIM) is a built-in digital version of a traditional SIM card. It's stored on a chip inside your phone, not something you can pop out and swap.

Instead of inserting a plastic card, you simply:

1. Scan a QR code (or use a carrier app)
2. Download your mobile plan
3. Activate your number - all in minutes

Why use an eSIM?

• No waiting for postage or fiddling with trays
• Use multiple plans on one phone
• Secure and encrypted (harder to clone or steal)
• Perfect for travellers and remote workers

According to a report from Statista, over 60% of new smartphones sold worldwide in 2025 supported eSIM and adoption is expected to continue rising rapidly.

Before you activate: What you'll need

To avoid hitting a snag mid-process, check off this quick list first:

Device Compatibility

Not all phones support eSIM, but most modern ones do.

eSIM Compatible iPhone devices

• iPhone XS, XS Max, XR or later and IOS 12.1 or later
• iPhone 13 & 14 support dual eSIMs
• iPhone 14 (US) has no SIM tray at all

eSIM Compatible Android devices

Example of some compatible android phones:

• Google Pixel 3 and newer
• Samsung Galaxy S20, S21, S22, S23+
• Motorola Razr, Sony Xperia 10 III, Oppo Find X5 and more

Full list of Samsung Galaxy phones that support eSIM

Google Pixel eSIM info

Wi-Fi or mobile data

eSIM activation requires internet access.

A QR code or activation link

Provided by your mobile network, in gosimless's case, it's available in your account dashboard.

How to Activate an eSIM on iPhone

There are three ways to activate an eSIM on an iPhone:

1. Using a QR code

1. Go to Settings > Mobile Data > Add eSIM
2. Choose “Use QR Code”
3. Scan the QR code provided by your network (e.g. from your gosimless dashboard)
4. Follow the prompts to label your line (e.g. “Work”, “Personal”)
5. Restart your phone if prompted

2. Using eSIM quick transfer

Only works if both devices are nearby and using iOS 16 or newer. This is useful if you want to transfer your eSIM to a new phone.

1. Go to Settings > Mobile Data > Add eSIM > Transfer from nearby iPhone
2. Confirm with Face ID / Passcode
3. Your number will move automatically

3. Using carrier app

Some mobile providers allow eSIM activation via their own apps. This method is less common but still supported by larger carriers.

How to Activate an eSIM on Android

Steps vary slightly by brand, but the process is broadly the same.

1. Using a QR code

1. Go to Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > Add eSIM
2. Tap “Use QR code” or “Download a SIM instead?”
3. Scan your gosimless QR code
4. Follow on-screen setup steps

Activating your eSIM with gosimless

With gosimless, eSIM activation is as simple as it gets.

Here's how the process works:

1. Purchase a plan from the gosimless eSIM shop
2. Log into your account and select your number
3. Click “Activate eSIM” to view your unique QR code
4. Follow the platform-specific steps above to scan it

If you're switching devices, you'll need to request a new QR code. We usually issue these within 1 business hour, but allow up to 24 hours.

We do not offer physical SIMs, and every eSIM we distribute is digitally controlled and serial-locked, meaning your number can't be hijacked or copied onto a different phone.

Is eSIM activation safe?

You may be skeptical of the safety of eSIMs but they are absolutely safe, in fact, eSIMs are designed to be safer than traditional SIMs.

• All eSIM profiles are encrypted and tied to your phone's unique hardware ID
• Your eSIM can't be cloned, reused, or removed without your permission
• You can remotely wipe or move your number if your phone is lost

Common activation issues

QR code won't scan?

• Make sure the code hasn't already been used
• Clean your camera lens and keep your hand steady
• Try adjusting lighting or manually entering activation details

Activation failed?

• Confirm your phone supports eSIM and is carrier-unlocked
• Double check you're connected to Wi-Fi or mobile data
• Restart your device and try again

Still stuck? Just contact the gosimless support team - we'll walk you through it. No bots, no queues.

eSIM tips for travellers

eSIMs are ideal for international travel and activation is often faster than buying a SIM abroad. Here are some top tips:

• Activate before your trip while on Wi-Fi
• Use dual SIM mode: one for your UK number, one for local data
• Check if your plan includes inclusive roaming, gosimless offers O2 EU roaming and Vodafone EU and global roaming

You can check Vodafone and O2 eSIM roaming details for extra information on what they include and pricing

Getting connected with gosimless

Activating an eSIM is fast, secure, and more flexible than a traditional SIM. Whether you're switching phones, travelling abroad, or going digital for the first time - you can be up and running in just a few taps.

At gosimless, we make the entire process easy. From secure QR provisioning to fast support and flexible plans, you're in safe hands and already one step closer to going SIM-free for good.

Frequently asked questions