How to Set Up an eSIM on Your Smartphone

The world of mobile connectivity is changing fast, and eSIM technology is leading the revolution. With an eSIM, you no longer need a physical SIM card—everything is digital, faster, and more convenient. Whether you're switching networks, traveling, or activating a data plan on Aridanet, setting up an eSIM on your smartphone takes only a few minutes.

In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to set up an eSIM on major devices: iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, and Huawei, plus troubleshooting tips for common issues.

What You Need Before Installing an eSIM

Before you begin, make sure you have:

A supported device (iPhone Xr and newer, Samsung S20 and newer, Google Pixel 4 and newer)

A stable internet connection (Wi-Fi recommended)

Your eSIM QR code or activation code from Aridanet

Your phone unlocked or compatible with the eSIM service you purchased

Once you have these, you’re ready to install.

How to Set Up an eSIM on iPhone

Compatible models: iPhone XR and newer (except China models)

Method 1: Install via QR Code

1. Open Settings

2. Tap Mobile Data / Cellular

3. Select Add eSIM or Add Cellular Plan

4. Scan the QR code from Aridanet

5. Tap Continue

6. Your eSIM will activate

Method 2: Install via Manual Code

If your QR doesn’t scan:

1. Go to Settings → Mobile Data → Add eSIM

2. Choose Enter Details Manually

3. Input the SM-DP+ address and activation code given by Aridanet

Method 3: Install Directly from the App (if supported)

Open your eSIM provider app and look for “Install eSIM” or “Add Plan.”

How to Set Up an eSIM on Samsung Galaxy Devices

Compatible models include: S22/S23/S24, Z Fold/Flip series, Note 20 Ultra, A54, A55, etc.

Steps:

1. Open Settings

2. Tap Connections

3. Tap SIM Manager

4. Select Add eSIM

5. Choose:

Scan QR code, or

Add using activation code

6. Wait for the eSIM to download and activate.

💡 Tip: If Samsung says “eSIM not supported,” your model might be a USA carrier-locked or Hong Kong version.

How to Set Up an eSIM on Google Pixel

Compatible models: Pixel 4 and newer.

Steps:

1. go to Settings

2. Select Network & Internet

3. Tap + Add

4. Tap Download a SIM instead?

5. Scan the QR code or enter details manually

6. Activate the eSIM

How to Set Up an eSIM on Huawei Devices

Supported: P40, P50, Mate 40, Mate 50 (Global models only)

China models do NOT support eSIM.

Steps:

1. Open Settings

2. Tap Mobile Network

3. Select SIM Management

4. Choose Add eSIM / eSIM profile

5. Scan the QR code

6. Activate the plan

Troubleshooting: When eSIM Won’t Install

1. “eSIM not supported on this device”

You may have:

a China or Hong Kong model (iPhones ending in CH/A or ZP/A)

a US carrier-locked Samsung or iPhone

outdated software

2. QR code not scanning

Use the manual activation method.

3. No network signal after installation

Try:

enabling data roaming

restarting your phone

selecting the eSIM in “Primary SIM” settings

checking APN settings (Aridanet provides these)

4. eSIM option not showing at all

Your device may not have eSIM hardware.

Final Thoughts: eSIM Is the Future of Mobile Connectivity

eSIMs offer:

faster setup

better security

no physical cards

instant activation

perfect travel connectivity

Whether you're traveling internationally or switching providers, platforms like Aridanet make it effortless to get connected in seconds.

As more devices adopt eSIM-only technology, knowing how to install an eSIM will soon be as common as connecting to Wi-Fi.