How to activate an eSIM on every major US carrier
eSIMs are becoming more popular, but activating them isn’t straightforward. SinceApple made the iPhone 14 eSIM exclusive, everyone is wondering when their phone manufacturer will follow suit. However, these steps are still in the early stages, and there isn’t a standard way to activate eSIMs on each carrier or device yet.
While they aren’t eSIM exclusive, thetop Android phoneshave eSIM support so that you can get a head start with eSIMs. We walk you through the process of activating an eSIM on every major U.S. carrier and highlight any device restrictions. If you’re unsure of what an eSIM is, read ourexplanation of SIM card types.
How to activate an eSIM on Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile
New eSIMs need to be activated and then downloaded. Downloading an eSIM is a mostly automatic process, but activating it requires a different method depending on your carrier or phone.
Even within carriers, some devices have different methods of eSIM activation. Read the instructions carefully to ensure you’re following the instructions for your device.
Purchasing an eSIM is done while purchasing your phone plan. Even if you plan solely to use eSIM, your carrier may send you a physical SIM card anyway. Some phones support dual SIM/eSIM cards, so don’t throw away your physical SIM card.
Due to the lack of widespread adoption, activating an eSIM isn’t always a seamless process. If you have trouble following these instructions, contact your carrier’s customer support or go to a physical store to activate your eSIM.
How to activate an eSIM on Verizon
There are two ways to activate an eSIM on Verizon:
The first method to activate your eSIM is through the My Verizon app. This is the easiest method. You can use it whether activating a new device or migrating to an eSIM on an existing device.
Open the app and follow the prompts. You’ll also need to scan a QR code which we copied below. It’s the same code for Android and iOS devices.
You can also contact Verizon’s customer support at (800) 922-0204 to activate your eSIM.
How to activate an eSIM on AT&T
When you purchase an eSIM from AT&T, you should receive an eSIM activation card with a QR code. To activate your eSIM, follow these instructions:
How to activate an eSIM on T-Mobile
If you bought your device from T-Mobile, you should be automatically prompted to activate your eSIM during setup.
If this prompt doesn’t appear, contact T-Mobile customer support at (800) 937-8997, then scan the QR code below.
In December 2022, a T-Mobile representative informed Android Police that its eSIM activation process varies between devices. If you own aGoogle Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, or any iPhone 14 model, contact T-Mobile. A T-Mobile representative may be able to push your activation automatically, and you may not need to scan a QR code.
How to download your eSIM to your Android phone
After activating your eSIM, it’s time to download it to your Android phone. verify you meet the following criteria before beginning:
These instructions are from a Pixel 6 running Android 13. Regardless of your Android device, these steps should be similar. However, some options may have different names. For example, the option for eSIM for Samsung Galaxy phones is underConnections, notNetwork & Internet.
You must enter your Android phone’s settings to activate your device. This is in a slightly different location for each device.
How to activate an eSim for iOS
Activating an eSIM for iOS is similar to activating one on Android. Make sure you meet the same criteria before beginning:
If you bought an iPhone with an eSIM (such as the iPhone 14), tap the notification that saysProvider Mobile Data Plan Ready to Be Installed.This notification appears shortly after turning on your phone, and you only need to make a call to test the connectivity.
Is an eSIM the best option for you?
eSIM cards have many benefits but might not be best for you. If you’re constantly swapping out SIM cards, you’ll want to stick with physical SIM cards. Also, if you’re considering one of thebest prepaid phone plans, note that most MVNOs don’t have eSIM support.
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