Background

How To Set Up an eSIM on Android: A Complete Guide

July 16, 2024

Here’s everything you need to know about setting up and using an eSIM on your Android or Samsung device.

What is it and How Does It Work?

An eSIM is a digital SIM card that is already in your phone. It removes the need for physical SIM cards that you have to put in and take out. eSIMs let you hold multiple carriers at the same time and switch between them.

Android and Samsung eSIM Set-Up

Check Compatibility

Before setting up your eSIM, ensure that your Android device supports eSIM technology. Click here for our comprehensive list of eSIM compatible phones.

Choose a Plan

Navigate to KnowRoaming’s website. Select the eSIM package that suits your needs, considering your destination and data requirements.

Before You Travel

Scan the QR Code

With a stable Internet connection, scan the QR code provided to you on the checkout page or confirmation email you received. Click on the eSIM popup. Add this plan to connect to a new mobile network. Accept and continue all prompts.

When You Arrive

Switch Mobile Data to eSIM

  • Go to Settings.
  • Tap on Connections.
  • Select SIM Manager.
  • Tap on Mobile Data.
  • Set it to your eSIM.
  • Turn Roaming On

    1. Go to Settings.

    2. Tap on Connections.

    3. Select Mobile Networks.

    4. Toggle Data Roaming to on.

    Troubleshooting

    Check your eSIM settings.

    1. Go to Settings.

    2. Tap on Connections.

    3. Tap on Mobile Networks.

    4. Tap on Access Point Names.

    5. Select the eSIM (typically at the bottom of your screen).

    6. Ensure an option is selected that has the APN globaldata (no capital letters and no spaces).

    Confirm APN Details

  • Each APN option on the list will have a name in bold, and the APN address below it.
  • If no options include the APN globaldata, click on Add (usually top right of your screen),
  • Tap on Name and label it esim, then tap on APN and label it globaldata (no capital letters and no spaces).
  • Then Tap on the back arrow or save, depending on your device, and select the APN with the Name esim and the APN globaldata
  • Then tap on the back arrow or save, depending on your device and exit settings.
  • How Do I Know If My eSIM Is Activated?

    After setting up your eSIM, check its activation status by navigating to Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile network > Advanced > Carrier.

    If activated, it will display the carrier name and network status under Carrier.

    Is Your Android Phone eSIM Compatible?

    Compatible phones include models from Samsung, Google, and other leading manufacturers. Click here for our comprehensive list of eSIM compatible phones.

    How to Check if Your Phone Supports eSIMs?

    Most Android and Samsung devices support eSIM. To check compatibility:

  • Dial *#06# to display your IMEI number.
  • Confirm eSIM support in your device's settings.
  • Click here for our comprehensive list of eSIM compatible phones.

    Reasons Why It May Not Work

    Network Locked: Some devices are locked to specific networks, preventing eSIM activation with other carriers.

    Not Compatible: Certain older Android devices may not support eSIM technology, leading to compatibility issues.

    Lack of Data: Ensure your eSIM plan has sufficient data or consider topping up to maintain connectivity.

    How to Fix Your eSIM Issues

    Contact our dedicated 24/7 Support team.

    Restart Your Device: A simple reboot can resolve minor eSIM glitches.

    Check Network Coverage: Ensure you're in an area with adequate network coverage for eSIM connectivity.

    Verify Activation: Double-check eSIM activation and configuration settings.

    Update Software: Ensure your device's software is up-to-date to avoid compatibility issues.

    Reset Network Settings: Resetting network settings can resolve connectivity problems.

    Reinstall eSIM Profile: Remove and reinstall the eSIM profile to refresh settings.

    How to Fix Network Locked Phones

    What does it mean if your network is locked? Network locks restrict your device to a specific carrier's SIM cards, limiting eSIM activation and carrier switching options.

    Solution:

    Contact your home network provider to assist you.

    Can You Use an eSIM on Your Laptop?

    Most laptops do not support eSIM technology. However, you can use your Android device as a mobile hotspot to share its internet connection with your laptop.

    Setup Mobile Hotspot on Android Devices

    Setting up a mobile hotspot on your Android device enables you to share its internet connection with other devices.

    Follow these steps:

  • Access Settings: Open the Settings app on your Android device.
  • Navigate to Network & Internet: Tap on "Network & Internet" or "Connections," depending on your device.
  • Enable Mobile Hotspot: Look for "Mobile Hotspot" and toggle it on. Customize your hotspot settings, including the network name and password.
  • Connect Devices: Other devices can now connect to your Android device’s hotspot by selecting it from their Wi-Fi networks list and entering the password you set.
  • Usage Tips: Monitor your data usage, especially if you have limited data. You can manage data consumption by setting data limits and reviewing connected devices.
  • Managing Your eSIM: Removing and Disabling

    If you need to remove or disable your eSIM from your Android device, follow these steps:

  • Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile network > Advanced > Carrier settings.
  • Tap on the eSIM you want to remove or disable.
  • Select "Remove" or "Disable" to deactivate the eSIM.
  • Frequently Asked Questions

    How do I set up eSIM on Android?

    Setting up eSIM on Android involves navigating to Settings, selecting Network & Internet, then Advanced, followed by Carrier settings. Tap Add carrier and follow the prompts to scan your eSIM QR code or enter the details manually.

    How can I check if my eSIM is activated on Android?

    To verify eSIM activation, go to Settings, tap on Network & Internet, then Mobile network, and finally Carrier settings. Your active eSIM plan should be displayed here.

    Is my Android phone compatible with eSIM?

    Most recent Android models from manufacturers like Samsung, Google, and others are compatible. Confirm by dialling *#06# to display your IMEI number. Click here for our comprehensive list of eSIM compatible phones.

    Can I activate eSIM on android phone

    Yes you can. Follow these simple steps.

    How long does eSIM take to activate

    Activation is immediate. Or when you touch down in the eSIM country.

    What is an eSIM and how does it work on Android?

    An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital SIM card integrated into your device's chipset. It allows you to switch carriers without changing physical SIM cards, offering flexibility and convenience.

    How do eSIMs work on Android smartphones?

    eSIMs on Android store multiple carrier profiles digitally, enabling seamless switching between mobile plans directly from your device's settings.

    Can I use my Android phone as a hotspot for my laptop?

    Yes, you can use your Android phone as a hotspot to share its internet connection with other devices like laptops. Set up your mobile hotspot by accessing Settings, Network & Internet, and enabling Mobile hotspot.