Which Android phones support eSIM?

Google Pixel 3 and newer (except some carrier variants), Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer, Galaxy Z Fold/Flip series, and recent models from Motorola, Oppo, Xiaomi, Honor and others. Check Settings for an 'Add eSIM' or 'Download a SIM' option, or dial *#06#: if an EID number appears, your phone supports eSIM.

Where is the eSIM setting on Samsung Galaxy?

On Samsung phones go to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager > Add eSIM. On Google Pixel it is Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > Add SIM > Download a SIM. Other brands place it under Settings > Mobile Network or Settings > SIM cards & mobile networks.

Do I need internet to install an Android eSIM?

Yes. The eSIM profile downloads to your phone, so install over Wi-Fi before you travel. After installation, the eSIM connects to local networks on arrival with no further downloads.

Can I use my home SIM and a travel eSIM at the same time on Android?

Yes. Android dual-SIM lets your home SIM handle calls and SMS while the travel eSIM handles mobile data. Set the eSIM as the preferred data SIM and disable data roaming on your home line to avoid roaming charges.

What if the QR code won't scan?

Use the manual entry option shown during eSIM setup and type the SM-DP+ address and activation code from your confirmation page. If setup fails entirely, confirm the phone is carrier-unlocked, update Android, and try again on stable Wi-Fi.

When does my eSIM plan start after installing on Android?

With nadanada, validity starts when the eSIM first connects to a network at your destination, not at purchase and not at installation. Install at home, days or weeks ahead, and the clock starts when you land.

How to Install an eSIM on Android (2026): Samsung, Pixel & More

Android eSIM installation is quick once you know where your manufacturer hides the setting. This guide covers Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel and other Android phones, with both QR-code and manual methods.

Before you start

Check eSIM support. Dial *#06#. If you see an EID number alongside the IMEI, your phone supports eSIM. Pixel 3+, Samsung Galaxy S20+, Z Fold/Flip and most recent flagships qualify.
Check the phone is unlocked. A carrier-locked phone rejects third-party eSIMs. If you bought the phone on a contract installment plan, confirm with the carrier that it is unlocked.
Connect to Wi-Fi. The eSIM profile is a download; you cannot install it offline.

Install on Samsung Galaxy

Settings > Connections > SIM Manager
Tap Add eSIM
Choose Scan QR code and point the camera at the QR code from your confirmation page
- If the code is on the same phone: screenshot it, then tap the gallery/photo icon in the scanner and pick the screenshot
Tap Add / Confirm and wait for the download
Name the plan (e.g. "Travel eSIM") when prompted

Manual entry on Samsung: in the QR scanner screen, tap Enter activation code (or Add using activation code) and paste the SM-DP+ address and activation code from your confirmation page.

Install on Google Pixel

Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs
Tap Add SIM (or the + next to SIMs)
Choose Download a SIM instead?
Scan the QR code, or tap Need help? > Enter it manually and paste the SM-DP+ address and activation code
Confirm the download and enable the new SIM

Install on other Android brands

Xiaomi/Redmi/POCO: Settings > SIM cards & mobile networks > Add eSIM (or Manage eSIM)
Oppo/OnePlus/Realme: Settings > Mobile network > SIM management > Add eSIM
Motorola: Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > Add eSIM
Huawei/Honor: Settings > Mobile network > SIM management > eSIM (note: many Huawei models lack eSIM entirely)

If you cannot find the option, search "eSIM" in the Settings search bar. Every eSIM-capable Android surfaces it there.

Dual-SIM travel setup

After installation, configure the two lines:

Preferred SIM for mobile data: the travel eSIM
Preferred SIM for calls/SMS: your home SIM (keeps iMessage/WhatsApp/banking texts on your normal number)
Data roaming: ON for the travel eSIM (travel eSIMs work by roaming, so there are no surprise charges on a prepaid plan), OFF for your home SIM (this is where bill shock comes from)

If it does not connect on arrival

Give it two minutes, then: toggle airplane mode once, check the eSIM line is enabled, and confirm data roaming is on for the eSIM. If it still won't connect, see our eSIM not connecting troubleshooting guide.

When you buy a nadanada eSIM, the QR code, activation link and manual codes appear on the confirmation page instantly, with no email or account needed, so screenshot or bookmark that page for peace of mind.