eSIM Phone Installation Guide by Device Type

Follow these simple instructions to install and set up your eSIM

Installation guide by device to assist you on installing the eSIM on your device. Please carefully follow the step and make sure you are connected to a stable WiFi connection during installation.

WiFi Connection Required

For the smoothest installation experience, please connect to a stable WiFi network before installing your eSIM. Sometimes the installation happens quietly in the background - that's perfectly normal! Just check your Mobile Services or SIM manager afterwards to confirm your eSIM was successfully added.

Important Notes Before Installation:

  • Installation limits: Some eSIMs can only be downloaded and installed once, while others can be reinstalled multiple times (usually up to 3 times max). We strongly recommend not deleting your eSIM as it may not be able to be reinstalled. This is especially so for single use eSIM issued by local eSIM providers and those with single use disclaimers.
  • Device binding: Each eSIM installation can only be installed on a single device. Once installed, it's tied to that device.
  • Device requirements: Your phone must be carrier-unlocked and eSIM-compatible.
  • Data roaming is mandatory: You MUST enable data roaming for the eSIM to work, even in the destination country.
  • Prevent conflicts: Disable other SIMs/eSIMs when using your travel eSIM.
  • APN configuration: iOS devices auto-configure APN (except IIJ Docomo Japan eSIM). Android users may need to manually set APN unless already configured - please recheck to be sure.
Japan eSIM Special Instructions (Click to expand)
  • Most Japan eSIMs work automatically - no manual configuration needed
  • IIJ Docomo eSIMs only: These specific eSIMs require manual APN configuration to get full connectivity functionality
  • APN setup: If you have an IIJ Docomo eSIM, check your email for the specific APN details
  • iPhone
  • Samsung
  • Pixel
  • OPPO
  • HUAWEI
  • Xiaomi
  • Motorola

iPhone

Learn more about iPhone eSIM

Important: Your phone must be carrier-unlocked to use eSIM. Compatible with(excluding iPhone from China):

  • iPhone XR
  • iPhone XS
  • iPhone XS Max
  • iPhone 11
  • iPhone 11 Pro
  • iPhone 12
  • iPhone 12 Mini
  • iPhone 12 Pro
  • iPhone 12 Pro Max
  • iPhone 13
  • iPhone 13 Mini
  • iPhone 13 Pro
  • iPhone 13 Pro Max
  • iPhone SE 3 (2022)
  • iPhone 14/14 Plus/Pro/Pro Max
  • iPhone 15/15 Plus/Pro/Pro Max
  • iPhone 16/16 Plus/Pro/Pro Max

How to install an eSIM on iPhone

1

Before You Start

IMPORTANT: WiFi Connection Required
Please connect to a stable WiFi network before installing your eSIM for the best experience. Don't worry if the installation seems to happen quietly in the background - just check your Mobile Services or SIM manager page to confirm your eSIM was added successfully!

Additionally, ensure your iPhone is:

  • Carrier-unlocked
  • Running iOS 12.1 or later
  • Connected to a stable WiFi network
Navigation Path:
Preparation
eSIM Setup
2

Installation Method 1: Quick Install (iOS 17.4+)

If you have iOS 17.4 or later, you can use the quick install method:

  1. Click the "Install eSIM" button in your email on your iPhone
  2. A popup will appear asking to add the cellular plan
  3. Tap "Add Cellular Plan"
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions

Note: This method only works when you open the email on the iPhone where you want to install the eSIM.

Navigation Path:
Email>Install eSIM Button>Add Cellular Plan
Step 2: Installation Method 1: Quick Install (iOS 17.4+)
3

Installation Method 2: Scan QR Code

Use this method for any iOS version:

  1. Open your iPhone Camera app
  2. Point it at the QR code in your email
  3. A notification will appear at the top: "Cellular Plan Detected"
  4. Tap the notification
  5. Select "Add Cellular Plan"

Alternative: Go to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan, then scan the QR code.

Navigation Path:
Camera App>Scan QR Code>Add Cellular Plan
Step 3: Installation Method 2: Scan QR Code
4

Label Your eSIM

After adding the plan, you'll be prompted to label your eSIM:

  1. Choose a custom label or select from the list
  2. We recommend using: [Country] eSIM (e.g., "Japan eSIM")
  3. This helps identify the eSIM if you have multiple plans

Important: Remember which device you installed each eSIM on. Each profile can only be installed on one device.

Navigation Path:
Add Cellular Plan>Label>Continue
Step 4: Label Your eSIM
5

Configure Cellular Settings

Critical Step: You must enable Data Roaming for the eSIM to work:

  1. Go to Settings > Cellular
  2. Tap on your eSIM (shown with the label you created)
  3. Toggle ON "Data Roaming" - This is essential!
  4. Toggle ON "Turn On This Line" if not already enabled
To prevent conflicts: We recommend turning OFF other SIMs/eSIMs when using this eSIM. You can do this in Settings > Cellular by toggling off other lines.
Navigation Path:
Settings>Cellular>[Your eSIM]>Data Roaming>ON
Step 5: Configure Cellular Settings

🔧 Troubleshooting Tips for iPhone

  • No data connection?
    • Verify the APN is set correctly (most important for Android and Japan eSIMs)
    • Check that data roaming is enabled
    • Ensure your eSIM is selected as the active data SIM
  • Can't find network? Try manually selecting a network operator instead of automatic selection
  • Multiple SIMs causing issues? Disable other SIMs/eSIMs temporarily
  • Settings not sticking? Restart your device after making APN changes
  • eSIM not visible? Check Mobile Services/SIM manager - it may have installed without notifications
  • iPhone specific: If quick install doesn't work, try the QR code method or manual entry

Still need help? Contact our support team at support@airdatalink.com with your order number and specific issue.

Samsung

Learn more about Samsung eSIM

How to install an eSIM on Samsung

1

Quick Install (Android 14+)

If your device supports quick install, you can add the eSIM directly from your email:

  1. Open the eSIM email on the same phone
  2. Tap the "Install eSIM" button or link
  3. Confirm "Add eSIM" when prompted

Tip: If the button is not available, use the QR code method below.

Navigation Path:
Email>Install eSIM>Add eSIM
eSIM Setup
2

Scan the QR Code

Scan the eSIM QR code from your email. Tap on "Add plan to phone" when prompted.
Navigation Path:
Camera>Scan QR Code>Add plan to phone
Step 2: Scan the QR Code
3

Confirm and Add Mobile Plan

Click "Confirm", then go to "SIM card manager". Tap on "Add mobile plan".
Navigation Path:
Confirm>SIM card manager>Add mobile plan
Step 3: Confirm and Add Mobile Plan
4

Enable Data Roaming

Critical Step: Data roaming MUST be enabled for your eSIM to work:

  1. Go to Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks
  2. Select your eSIM profile
  3. Toggle ON "Data roaming"
  4. Make sure "Mobile data" is also ON
Important: To prevent conflicts, we recommend disabling other SIMs/eSIMs when using this one. Your eSIM will activate once it connects to a network in your destination country.
Navigation Path:
Settings>Connections>Mobile Networks>Data roaming>ON
Data Roaming
5

Check APN Settings (If Needed)

Check if APN is already configured:

  1. Go to Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks
  2. Ensure your eSIM is selected as the mobile data SIM
  3. Tap "Access Point Names"
  4. Check if an APN is already listed

If no APN is listed:

  1. Tap "+" or "Add"
  2. Enter only the APN field with the APN from your email
  3. Save and select the new APN
  4. Restart your device
Navigation Path:
Settings>Connections>Mobile Networks>Access Point Names>Add
eSIM Setup

🔧 Troubleshooting Tips for Samsung

  • No data connection?
    • Verify the APN is set correctly (most important for Android and Japan eSIMs)
    • Check that data roaming is enabled
    • Ensure your eSIM is selected as the active data SIM
  • Can't find network? Try manually selecting a network operator instead of automatic selection
  • Multiple SIMs causing issues? Disable other SIMs/eSIMs temporarily
  • Settings not sticking? Restart your device after making APN changes
  • eSIM not visible? Check Mobile Services/SIM manager - it may have installed without notifications

Still need help? Contact our support team at support@airdatalink.com with your order number and specific issue.

Pixel

Learn more about Pixel eSIM

How to install an eSIM on Pixel

1

Quick Install (Android 14+)

If your device supports quick install, you can add the eSIM directly from your email:

  1. Open the eSIM email on the same phone
  2. Tap the "Install eSIM" button or link
  3. Confirm "Add eSIM" when prompted

Tip: If the button is not available, use the QR code method below.

Navigation Path:
Email>Install eSIM>Add eSIM
eSIM Setup
2

Access Network Settings

Navigate to the network settings on your Pixel:
  1. Go to Settings
  2. Tap "Network & Internet"
  3. Tap "Mobile network" or "+"
  4. Tap "Add more"
Navigation Path:
Settings>Network & Internet>Mobile network>Add more
Step 2: Access Network Settings
3

Download and Scan QR Code

Follow the on-screen instructions to download your eSIM:
  1. Tap "Download your eSIM"
  2. Tap "Next"
  3. Scan the QR code from your order email
Navigation Path:
Download your eSIM>Next>Scan QR code
Step 3: Download and Scan QR Code
4

Enable Mobile Data and Roaming

Critical Step: Both mobile data and roaming MUST be enabled:

  1. Turn ON "Mobile data"
  2. Turn ON "Roaming"
  3. Ensure your eSIM is selected as the active mobile data SIM
Important: Your eSIM won't work without roaming enabled, even if you're in the correct country. We recommend turning OFF other SIMs/eSIMs to prevent conflicts while using this eSIM.
Navigation Path:
Mobile data>Roaming>ON
Data Roaming
5

Configure APN Settings

Check if your eSIM already has APN configured:

  1. Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile network
  2. Make sure your eSIM is selected
  3. Tap "Advanced" > "Access Point Names"
  4. Check if an APN is already active

If no APN appears:

  1. Tap "+" to add new APN
  2. Enter only the APN field with the APN from your email
  3. Save and select the new APN
  4. Restart your device
Navigation Path:
Settings>Network & Internet>Mobile network>Advanced>Access Point Names>+
eSIM Setup

🔧 Troubleshooting Tips for Pixel

  • No data connection?
    • Verify the APN is set correctly (most important for Android and Japan eSIMs)
    • Check that data roaming is enabled
    • Ensure your eSIM is selected as the active data SIM
  • Can't find network? Try manually selecting a network operator instead of automatic selection
  • Multiple SIMs causing issues? Disable other SIMs/eSIMs temporarily
  • Settings not sticking? Restart your device after making APN changes
  • eSIM not visible? Check Mobile Services/SIM manager - it may have installed without notifications

Still need help? Contact our support team at support@airdatalink.com with your order number and specific issue.

OPPO

Learn more about OPPO eSIM

How to install an eSIM on OPPO

1

Quick Install (Android 14+)

If your device supports quick install, you can add the eSIM directly from your email:

  1. Open the eSIM email on the same phone
  2. Tap the "Install eSIM" button or link
  3. Confirm "Add eSIM" when prompted

Tip: If the button is not available, use the QR code method below.

Navigation Path:
Email>Install eSIM>Add eSIM
eSIM Setup
2

Access SIM Settings

Navigate to your SIM card settings: Go to Settings > SIM card and Mobile/Cellular Data
Navigation Path:
Settings>SIM card and Mobile/Cellular Data
Step 2: Access SIM Settings
3

Select eSIM Option

From the SIM card menu:
  1. Select "eSIM"
  2. Accept the terms and continue
  3. Select "Add eSIM"
Navigation Path:
eSIM>Accept terms>Add eSIM
Step 3: Select eSIM Option
4

Scan QR Code

Follow the on-screen instructions:
  1. When prompted, scan the QR code from your order email
  2. Wait for the installation to complete
Navigation Path:
Scan QR code>Wait for installation
Scan QR Code
5

Enable Data Roaming and Configure Settings

Enable your eSIM for data connectivity:

  1. Enable your eSIM profile
  2. Turn ON "Data roaming" for your eSIM profile
  3. Ensure "Mobile data" is also enabled
  4. Disable other SIMs/eSIMs to prevent conflicts
Important: Go through setup step by step. Manually set the correct eSIM for mobile data or disable all other eSIMs to prevent conflicts.
Navigation Path:
eSIM profile>Data Roaming>ON
Data Roaming
6

Configure APN Settings

Check if APN is already configured:

  1. Go to Settings > SIM Card & Mobile Data
  2. Select your eSIM
  3. Tap "Access Point Names" or "APN"
  4. Check if an APN is already listed

If no APN exists:

  1. Tap "+" or "Add"
  2. Enter only the APN field with the APN from your email
  3. Save and select as active
  4. Restart device
Navigation Path:
Settings>SIM Card & Mobile Data>eSIM>Access Point Names>Add
eSIM Setup

🔧 Troubleshooting Tips for OPPO

  • No data connection?
    • Verify the APN is set correctly (most important for Android and Japan eSIMs)
    • Check that data roaming is enabled
    • Ensure your eSIM is selected as the active data SIM
  • Can't find network? Try manually selecting a network operator instead of automatic selection
  • Multiple SIMs causing issues? Disable other SIMs/eSIMs temporarily
  • Settings not sticking? Restart your device after making APN changes
  • eSIM not visible? Check Mobile Services/SIM manager - it may have installed without notifications

Still need help? Contact our support team at support@airdatalink.com with your order number and specific issue.

HUAWEI

Learn more about HUAWEI eSIM

How to install an eSIM on HUAWEI

1

Quick Install (Android 14+)

If your device supports quick install, you can add the eSIM directly from your email:

  1. Open the eSIM email on the same phone
  2. Tap the "Install eSIM" button or link
  3. Confirm "Add eSIM" when prompted

Tip: If the button is not available, use the QR code method below.

Navigation Path:
Email>Install eSIM>Add eSIM
eSIM Setup
2

Access SIM Management

Navigate to your SIM management settings: Go to Settings > Mobile network > SIM management

Note: Even if your device only supports one physical SIM card, SIM 1 and SIM 2 options are displayed. The eSIM card is installed in the SIM 2 slot by default.

Navigation Path:
Settings>Mobile network>SIM management
Step 2: Access SIM Management
3

Add eSIM

From the SIM management screen:
  1. Go to SIM 2
  2. Select "Add eSIM"
  3. Scan the QR code received from your order email
Navigation Path:
SIM 2>Add eSIM>Scan QR code
Step 3: Add eSIM
4

Enable Data Roaming

After installing your eSIM, make sure to:
  1. Enable your eSIM profile
  2. Enable data roaming for your eSIM (essential for connectivity)
  3. Disable other SIMs/eSIMs to prevent conflicts

Important: Your eSIM won't work without roaming enabled, even if you're in the correct country.

Navigation Path:
eSIM profile>Data Roaming>ON
Data Roaming
5

Check APN Settings (If Needed)

Check if your eSIM already has APN configured:

  1. Go to Settings > Mobile network > SIM management
  2. Select your eSIM (SIM 2)
  3. Tap "Access Point Names" or "Mobile data"
  4. Check if an APN is already active

If no APN exists:

  1. Tap "+" or "New APN"
  2. Enter only the APN field with the APN from your email
  3. Save and select the new APN
  4. Restart device
Navigation Path:
Settings>Mobile network>SIM management>eSIM>Access Point Names
eSIM Setup

🔧 Troubleshooting Tips for HUAWEI

  • No data connection?
    • Verify the APN is set correctly (most important for Android and Japan eSIMs)
    • Check that data roaming is enabled
    • Ensure your eSIM is selected as the active data SIM
  • Can't find network? Try manually selecting a network operator instead of automatic selection
  • Multiple SIMs causing issues? Disable other SIMs/eSIMs temporarily
  • Settings not sticking? Restart your device after making APN changes
  • eSIM not visible? Check Mobile Services/SIM manager - it may have installed without notifications

Still need help? Contact our support team at support@airdatalink.com with your order number and specific issue.

Xiaomi

Learn more about Xiaomi eSIM

How to install an eSIM on Xiaomi

1

Quick Install (Android 14+)

If your device supports quick install, you can add the eSIM directly from your email:

  1. Open the eSIM email on the same phone
  2. Tap the "Install eSIM" button or link
  3. Confirm "Add eSIM" when prompted

Tip: If the button is not available, use the QR code method below.

Navigation Path:
Email>Install eSIM>Add eSIM
eSIM Setup
2

Access SIM Settings

Navigate to your SIM settings: Go to Settings > SIM cards & mobile networks
Navigation Path:
Settings>SIM cards & mobile networks
Step 2: Access SIM Settings
3

Manage eSIM

From the SIM & mobile networks menu:
  1. Scroll down until you see the option "Manage eSIM" and click on it
  2. Tap "Add mobile plan"
Navigation Path:
Manage eSIM>Add mobile plan
Step 3: Manage eSIM
4

Scan QR Code

Follow the on-screen instructions:
  1. When prompted, scan the QR code from your order email
  2. Wait for the installation to complete
Navigation Path:
Scan QR code>Wait for installation
Scan QR Code
5

Enable Data Roaming and Configure Settings

Configure your eSIM for data connectivity:

  1. Enable your eSIM profile
  2. Enable "Data roaming" for your eSIM (essential for connectivity)
  3. Make sure "Mobile data" is enabled
  4. Set your eSIM as the preferred data SIM
  5. Disable other SIMs/eSIMs to prevent conflicts
Important: Go through setup step by step. Manually set the correct eSIM for mobile data or disable all other eSIMs to prevent conflicts.
Navigation Path:
eSIM profile>Data Roaming>ON
Data Roaming
6

Check APN Settings (If Needed)

Check if APN is already configured:

  1. Go to Settings > SIM cards & mobile networks
  2. Select your eSIM
  3. Tap "Access Point Names"
  4. Check if an APN is already listed and active

If no APN exists:

  1. Tap "+" or "Add"
  2. Enter only the APN field with the APN from your email
  3. Save and make it active
  4. Restart device
Navigation Path:
Settings>SIM cards & mobile networks>eSIM>Access Point Names>Add
eSIM Setup

🔧 Troubleshooting Tips for Xiaomi

  • No data connection?
    • Verify the APN is set correctly (most important for Android and Japan eSIMs)
    • Check that data roaming is enabled
    • Ensure your eSIM is selected as the active data SIM
  • Can't find network? Try manually selecting a network operator instead of automatic selection
  • Multiple SIMs causing issues? Disable other SIMs/eSIMs temporarily
  • Settings not sticking? Restart your device after making APN changes
  • eSIM not visible? Check Mobile Services/SIM manager - it may have installed without notifications

Still need help? Contact our support team at support@airdatalink.com with your order number and specific issue.

Motorola

Learn more about Motorola eSIM

How to install an eSIM on Motorola

1

Quick Install (Android 14+)

If your device supports quick install, you can add the eSIM directly from your email:

  1. Open the eSIM email on the same phone
  2. Tap the "Install eSIM" button or link
  3. Confirm "Add eSIM" when prompted

Tip: If the button is not available, use the QR code method below.

Navigation Path:
Email>Install eSIM>Add eSIM
eSIM Setup
2

Access Network Settings

Navigate to your network settings:
  1. Go into Settings
  2. Click on "Network & Internet"
Navigation Path:
Settings>Network & Internet
Step 2: Access Network Settings
3

Access Mobile Network and Carrier Settings

Navigate through the network settings:
  1. Click on "Mobile Network"
  2. Click the drop-down menu named "Advanced"
  3. Click on "Carrier"
Navigation Path:
Mobile Network>Advanced>Carrier
Step 3: Access Mobile Network and Carrier Settings
4

Add Carrier and Scan QR Code

Continue with the setup:
  1. Tap "Add carrier" and go next
  2. Scan the QR code from your order email
  3. Wait for the installation to complete
Navigation Path:
Add carrier>Scan QR code
Step 4: Add Carrier and Scan QR Code
5

Enable Data Roaming and Configure Settings

Activate your eSIM for data use:

  1. Enable your eSIM profile
  2. Enable "Data roaming" for your eSIM (required for connectivity)
  3. Ensure "Mobile data" is turned on
  4. Set your eSIM as the data SIM if you have multiple SIMs
  5. Disable other SIMs/eSIMs to prevent conflicts
Important: Go through setup step by step. Manually set the correct eSIM for mobile data or disable all other eSIMs to prevent conflicts.
Navigation Path:
eSIM profile>Data Roaming>ON
Data Roaming
6

Check APN Settings (If Needed)

Check if your eSIM already has APN configured:

  1. Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile network
  2. Make sure your eSIM is selected
  3. Tap "Advanced" > "Access Point Names"
  4. Check if an APN is already active

If no APN exists:

  1. Tap "+" or "Add"
  2. Enter only the APN field with the APN from your email
  3. Save and select the new APN
  4. Restart device
Navigation Path:
Settings>Network & Internet>Mobile network>Advanced>Access Point Names>Add
eSIM Setup

🔧 Troubleshooting Tips for Motorola

  • No data connection?
    • Verify the APN is set correctly (most important for Android and Japan eSIMs)
    • Check that data roaming is enabled
    • Ensure your eSIM is selected as the active data SIM
  • Can't find network? Try manually selecting a network operator instead of automatic selection
  • Multiple SIMs causing issues? Disable other SIMs/eSIMs temporarily
  • Settings not sticking? Restart your device after making APN changes
  • eSIM not visible? Check Mobile Services/SIM manager - it may have installed without notifications

Still need help? Contact our support team at support@airdatalink.com with your order number and specific issue.

📋 Quick Setup Checklist

Follow these steps regardless of your device type:

  1. ✓ Connect to WiFi before installation
  2. ✓ Go to device settings under Mobile Services or SIM manager
  3. ✓ Find option to add eSIM, then scan QR code or enter details manually
  4. ✓ Follow onscreen instructions and label your eSIM for easy identification
  5. ✓ Enable your eSIM profile when you want to use it
  6. ✓ Enable roaming for the eSIM profile (mandatory!)
  7. ✓ Configure APN if required (especially for Android and Japan eSIMs)
  8. ✓ Disable other SIMs to prevent conflicts
  9. ✓ Restart device after setup for best results

Need Additional Help?

📧 Email Support

Contact support@airdatalink.com

Include your order number and device type

📊 Check eSIM Usage

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Use your ICCID from the email

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