How to Use eSIM on Android: Complete Guide 2026

Most Android flagships from 2020 onward support eSIM, though the process varies slightly between manufacturers. This guide covers eSIM setup on Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, OnePlus, Xiaomi, and other Android phones — from installation through dual SIM configuration.

Compatible Android phones

eSIM support on Android is less uniform than iPhone. Major compatible devices include: Samsung: Galaxy S20 and newer, Galaxy Z Flip/Fold series, Galaxy A54 and newer. Google Pixel: Pixel 3a and newer. OnePlus: OnePlus 12 and newer (varies by region). Xiaomi: Selected models in certain markets. Motorola: Razr series, Edge series. Check our full compatibility list to verify your specific model — regional variants of the same phone may differ in eSIM support.

How to install a travel eSIM on Android

Step 1: Purchase your eSIM plan from Airalo, Yesim, Saily, or Drimsim. You will receive a QR code or activation link.

Step 2: Open SIM settings. The exact path varies by phone: Samsung: Settings → Connections → SIM Manager → Add eSIM. Pixel: Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → Add SIM. OnePlus: Settings → Mobile Network → Add eSIM. Most phones also support scanning directly from the camera app.

Step 3: Scan the QR code. Point your camera at the QR code from your provider's app. The phone will download and install the eSIM profile. This requires WiFi or an existing data connection.

Step 4: Configure dual SIM. After installation, go to SIM settings and set your travel eSIM for "Mobile Data" and keep your home SIM for "Calls." On Samsung, this is under SIM Manager → Preferred SIMs. On Pixel, under Network → SIMs → select each SIM's role.

Step 5: Activate on arrival. Enable the travel eSIM and ensure mobile data is routing through it. Toggle airplane mode if needed to force connection.

Samsung-specific tips

Samsung's One UI adds extra layers to the SIM setup process. The SIM Manager is the central hub — access it via Settings → Connections → SIM Manager. Samsung phones support naming each SIM plan, choosing per-app data routing, and setting temporary data switching (automatically use the other SIM if your primary loses signal). For Samsung-specific details, see our Samsung eSIM guide.

Google Pixel-specific tips

Pixel phones run stock Android, making eSIM setup the cleanest on any Android device. The path is straightforward: Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → + Add. Pixel phones from the 7 series onward support multiple active eSIM profiles, which is useful if you want to keep plans from different providers installed simultaneously. See our Pixel eSIM guide.

Troubleshooting Android eSIM

QR code does not scan: Try using the manual entry option instead — enter the SM-DP+ address and activation code provided by your eSIM provider. eSIM option not visible: Your phone may not support eSIM, your carrier may have locked eSIM functionality, or your phone's software may need updating. No data connection: Ensure the APN settings are correct. Most providers set APN automatically, but some Android phones require manual APN configuration. Check your provider's support page for the correct APN settings. Dual SIM conflicts: If both SIMs try to handle data, you may get slow speeds or connection drops. Explicitly set one SIM for data only. See our troubleshooting guide.