How to Install an eSIM on Android (2026 Step-by-Step Guide)
Android eSIM setup varies slightly by manufacturer, but the core steps are the same. This guide covers Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, Motorola, OnePlus, and Sony.
Compatible Android Phones
- Samsung Galaxy: S20 and newer, Z Fold/Flip series, Note 20
- Google Pixel: Pixel 3 and newer (some carrier-locked models excluded)
- Motorola: Razr, Edge 40+, G54+
- OnePlus: 11 and newer (region-dependent)
- Sony: Xperia 10 IV and newer
⚠️ Some phones sold in China and Hong Kong have eSIM disabled by the carrier.
Before You Start
- 1Connect to WiFi
- 2Update Android to the latest version
- 3Have your QR code ready (email or printed)
Samsung Galaxy: Step-by-Step
- 1Open Settings → Connections → SIM Manager
- 2Tap Add eSIM
- 3Tap Scan QR code from service provider
- 4Scan the Wanderly QR code
- 5Tap Add → Confirm
- 6Choose Add new plan
- 7Enable the new eSIM and set it as your mobile data line
Google Pixel: Step-by-Step
- 1Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs
- 2Tap + Add SIM
- 3Tap Download a SIM instead?
- 4Tap Next → scan the QR code
- 5Tap Activate → Done
- 6Choose your data preference
Motorola / OnePlus / Sony
The path is similar: Settings → Network & Internet (or SIM cards) → Add SIM → Download eSIM
After Installation
When you arrive: 1. Settings → SIM Manager → tap your travel eSIM 2. Turn ON Mobile Data 3. Turn ON Data Roaming (required for international eSIMs) 4. Disable mobile data on your home SIM to avoid accidental roaming
Troubleshooting
"Unable to download profile" → Check WiFi. Restart the phone. Try again.
No signal after landing → Settings → SIM Manager → eSIM → Network operators → Search → select manually.
Calls work but no internet → Set the eSIM as the default mobile data line in SIM Manager.
APN issues (Samsung specifically) → Settings → Connections → Mobile networks → Access Point Names. Most modern eSIMs auto-configure; if not, your provider will email APN settings.
Pro Tips
- Samsung lets you rename your eSIMs with custom colors — use it
- On Pixel, you can store up to 8 eSIMs but only 2 active at once
- If your phone was carrier-locked, you may need to unlock it before adding a foreign eSIM