How to Install an eSIM on iPhone (2026 Step-by-Step Guide)
Installing an eSIM on iPhone takes about 60 seconds. This guide covers iPhone XS through iPhone 16 Pro Max, with both QR code and manual setup methods.
Compatible iPhones
eSIM works on all iPhones from iPhone XS / XR (2018) onwards. iPhone 14, 15 and 16 sold in the US are eSIM-only — no physical SIM tray.
Before You Start
- 1Connect to WiFi — you need internet to download the eSIM profile
- 2Update iOS to the latest version
- 3Have your QR code ready — open the email or screenshot from another device
Method 1: QR Code (Easiest)
- 1Open Settings → Cellular (or Mobile Data)
- 2Tap Add eSIM or Add Cellular Plan
- 3Tap Use QR Code
- 4Scan the QR code from Wanderly''s confirmation email
- 5Tap Continue → Add Cellular Plan
- 6Label your line (e.g., "Travel" or the country name)
- 7Choose your default line for calls/iMessage
- 8Choose which line uses cellular data (set this to your travel eSIM)
✅ Done.
Method 2: Manual Setup
If you can''t scan a QR code:
- 1Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Enter Details Manually
- 2Enter the SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code from your confirmation email
- 3Follow the on-screen prompts
After Installation: Critical Settings
When you arrive in your destination:
- 1Settings → Cellular → tap your travel eSIM
- 2Turn ON Data Roaming (yes — it''s safe with an eSIM, no surprise charges)
- 3Set Cellular Data to your travel eSIM
- 4Keep your home line ON for SMS (e.g., bank 2FA codes)
Troubleshooting
"Could not activate cellular plan" → Check WiFi, then try again. The activation server may be busy.
No signal after landing → Toggle Airplane Mode on/off. Then go to Settings → Cellular → Network Selection → Auto.
Slow speeds → Settings → Cellular → eSIM → Voice & Data → ensure 5G or LTE is enabled.
QR code already used → Each QR works once. Contact support if you accidentally deleted the eSIM.
Pro Tips
- Install your eSIM before you fly — you don''t need WiFi at the destination if it''s already installed
- Don''t delete your home eSIM — keep it for SMS even if data is on the travel line
- Label clearly — "Home" and "Italy" beats "Primary" and "Secondary"
Get an eSIM for your next trip →
How to Install eSIM on Samsung Galaxy
- 1Settings → Connections → SIM Card Manager
- 2Tap Add Mobile Plan → Scan Carrier QR Code
- 3Scan your Wanderly QR code
- 4Set it as your data line in SIM Card Manager
How to Install eSIM on Google Pixel
- 1Settings → Network & Internet
- 2Tap + next to SIMs
- 3Tap "Download a SIM instead?"
- 4Scan your Wanderly QR code
Total time on any device: 2-3 minutes.
Troubleshooting
"QR code already used" — the profile may already be installed. Check Settings → Cellular.
"No service" after installing — enable Data Roaming and confirm the Wanderly eSIM is your active data line.
Can not scan the QR code — screenshot it and use "Enter Details Manually", or contact Wanderly support.
More help in our activation guide.