How to set up and use eSIM on Android

More and more carriers are turning to eSIMs when releasing their latest phones to connect phones to a mobile network. eSIMs offer various benefits, such as making it easier to switch carriers, possibly in minutes. Nevertheless, getting things up and running isn't as easy as just popping out a physical SIM card and swapping it over to a new phone.

Here's everything you need to know about eSIM and how to get one on your Android phone.

What is eSIM?

Using an eSIM essentially downloads all of the necessary carrier data directly to your phone. Previously, this was primarily handled by a physical SIM card provided by the carrier. However, as manufacturers continue to change their phones, so has the reliability and versatility of using an eSIM.

One of the best reasons to use an eSIM is that you don't need to go into a physical store to activate your phone. You can do it wherever you are, provided you have a stable Wi-Fi connection.

Another benefit of using an eSIM on Android is using multiple phone numbers on a single device. You can have one number for personal use and another for business.

Thankfully, we haven't seen any of the best Android phones ditch the physical SIM card slot completely. However, the same can't be said for the iPhone, as Apple removed this option starting with the iPhone 14.

How to use eSIM on Android

Using an eSIM is straightforward, which is excellent news if you're not tech-savvy. Most of the legwork is already done for you if you purchase a phone from a carrier. All you'll need to do is turn off your old phone, turn on your new phone, and go through the initial setup process.

However, if you already have a phone (or purchased one unlocked), you must find a carrier, ensure your phone is compatible, and sign up for a plan. Whether you're switching to a new carrier with your old phone or want to move your existing number to a different one, we've got you covered.

Set up and use eSIM on Pixel phones

1. Open the Settings app on your Pixel phone.

2. Tap Network & internet.

3. Tap SIMs.

4. Select + Add SIM.

5. Tap the Set up an eSIM button.

6. Select your network.

7. Follow the on-screen steps.

These instructions are similar for phones that follow the "stock" Android UI, like Motorola phones, although there will be slight differences in working or layout.

Set up and use eSIM on Samsung Galaxy phones

1. Open the Settings app on your Samsung phone.

2. Tap Connections.

3. Scroll down and select SIM manager.

4. Tap the Add eSIM button.

5. Select either Scan QR code or Search for eSIMs.

6. If choosing Search for eSIMs, select your carrier.

7. Otherwise, follow the on-screen steps to complete the setup process.

Set up and use eSIM on OnePlus phones

1. Open the Settings app on your OnePlus phone.

2. Tap Mobile network.

3. Tap Tap eSIM.

4. Make sure eSIM is enabled at the top of the screen.

5. Tap Add eSIM.

6. In the bottom right corner, tap the Set up an eSIM button.

7. Follow the on-screen steps to complete the eSIM setup process.

How to you transfer an eSIM

After debuting at MWC 2023, Google's eSIM Transfer Tool is now standard. Samsung introduced an eSIM transfer tool with One UI 5.1, which is now the new norm. eSIM support is standard across new Android smartphones, making activation even more straightforward.

Here's how to transfer your eSIM from one Android device to another.

1. Go through the steps above for either your Google Pixel or Samsung Galaxy device.

2. If using a Pixel, tap the Transfer a SIM from another device button on the Connect to mobile network screen.

3. If using a Samsung, tap Transfer SIM from another device on the Choose how to add your eSIM screen.

4. Follow the on-screen steps to complete the transfer process.

There are benefits, and headaches to using an eSIM

Using an eSIM has benefits, but it's not all a walk in the park when setting it up. For instance, if you have an iPhone 14 or iPhone 15 in the US, are using an eSIM, and want to switch to an Android phone, the process is a pain in the neck. Even with Google or Samsung's built-in eSIM transfer tools, you will likely need to call your carrier or go into a store.

However, as already stated, there are plenty of benefits to using eSIM, and things should only improve as tech support improves.