Installing an eSIM for the first time can feel intimidating, especially when you’re preparing for international travel and want to ensure everything works before departure. Unlike physical SIM cards that simply slot into your device, eSIM technology requires digital installation through your phone’s settings—a process that takes just two to three minutes once you understand the steps. This comprehensive guide walks you through eSIM installation and activation for both iPhone and Android devices, covering everything from compatibility verification to troubleshooting common issues that might prevent successful activation.
The eSIM installation process varies slightly between iOS and Android platforms, and even among different Android manufacturers like Samsung, Google, and Huawei. However, the fundamental workflow remains consistent: verify device compatibility, purchase your eSIM plan, receive a QR code, scan it through your device settings, and configure your data preferences. Understanding these steps before your trip eliminates the stress of troubleshooting connectivity issues in unfamiliar airports or hotels where reliable Wi-Fi might be scarce.
This guide focuses on RedEx eSIM installation, though the principles apply universally to most eSIM providers. We’ll cover critical prerequisites like carrier unlock status and eSIM support verification, provide detailed step-by-step instructions with specific settings paths for major device types, explain how to manage multiple eSIM profiles alongside your physical SIM, and address the most common installation errors with proven solutions. Whether you’re a tech-savvy traveler or someone who prefers clear, jargon-free instructions, this guide ensures you’ll have working mobile data the moment you land at your destination.
Before You Begin: Essential Prerequisites
Successful eSIM installation requires meeting three critical prerequisites that you should verify before purchasing any eSIM plan. First, your device must support eSIM technology. Most smartphones released after 2019 include eSIM capability, but older models and some budget devices lack the necessary embedded chip. Second, your device must be carrier-unlocked, meaning it’s not restricted to a specific mobile operator. Locked devices will reject eSIM profiles from third-party providers, displaying error messages during installation. Third, you need stable internet connectivity during installation—either Wi-Fi or mobile data from your existing SIM card—because the eSIM profile downloads from the provider’s server during setup.
Verifying eSIM compatibility takes just seconds. iPhone users can dial *#06# from the Phone app; if an EID (eSIM Identifier) appears alongside your IMEI number, your device supports eSIM. The EID is a 32-digit number that uniquely identifies your device’s embedded SIM chip. Android users can check Settings > About Phone > Status > EID. If you see an EID number, your device supports eSIM technology. Alternatively, RedEx and most eSIM providers offer compatibility checkers on their websites where you can enter your device model for instant verification.
Checking carrier unlock status requires contacting your current mobile operator or attempting eSIM installation. If you purchased your phone directly from Apple, Samsung, or Google without carrier financing, it’s likely unlocked. Devices purchased through carrier contracts or installment plans often remain locked until you complete payments and request unlocking. In the United States, carriers must unlock devices upon request once contracts are fulfilled. Contact your carrier’s customer service and ask specifically: “Is my device carrier-unlocked?” If locked, request unlocking before purchasing eSIM plans—the process typically takes 24-48 hours.
Step-by-Step: Installing eSIM on iPhone (iOS 12 and Later)
iPhone eSIM installation follows Apple’s standardized process across all compatible models from iPhone XS, XS Max, XR, and newer, including all iPhone 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15 series devices. The process takes approximately two minutes from start to finish, assuming you have your QR code ready and stable Wi-Fi connectivity. Before beginning, ensure your iPhone is running iOS 12 or later—earlier versions don’t support eSIM. You can check your iOS version in Settings > General > About > Software Version.
Begin by purchasing your RedEx eSIM plan through their website or mobile app. Within 60 seconds of purchase, you’ll receive an email containing your unique QR code and installation instructions. Open this email on a separate device (laptop, tablet, or another phone) so you can scan the QR code with your iPhone’s camera. Alternatively, if you’re installing on the same device that received the email, RedEx provides a direct installation link that automatically opens your Settings app—simply tap this link and skip the QR scanning step.
To install via QR code, open Settings on your iPhone and tap Cellular (or Mobile Data in some regions). Tap “Add Cellular Plan” or “Add eSIM” depending on your iOS version. Your camera activates automatically. Position your iPhone’s camera over the QR code displayed on your other device, ensuring the entire code fits within the frame. The camera recognizes the QR code within 2-3 seconds and displays a confirmation prompt: “Cellular Plan Ready to Be Added.” Tap Continue to proceed with installation.
Configuring Your eSIM Settings
After the eSIM profile downloads (typically 15-30 seconds), iOS prompts you to label your new plan. This label helps you distinguish between your primary SIM and travel eSIM, especially important if you’re maintaining both simultaneously. Tap the “Cellular Plan Label” field and either select a preset option (Travel, Business, Personal) or create a custom label. We recommend descriptive labels like “RedEx Travel” or “Europe eSIM” that clearly indicate the plan’s purpose.
Next, iOS asks which line you want to use for iMessage and FaceTime. If you’re keeping your primary SIM active to receive calls and texts from your home number, select your primary line here. This ensures your contacts can still reach you through iMessage using your regular phone number. For data usage, iOS asks which line should be your default for cellular data. Select your newly installed RedEx eSIM to route all internet traffic through your travel data plan, avoiding expensive roaming charges on your primary carrier.
The final critical setting is Data Roaming. Navigate to Settings > Cellular > select your RedEx eSIM > toggle Data Roaming ON. This step confuses many first-time eSIM users because “roaming” typically implies expensive charges. However, with eSIM plans, data roaming must be enabled for the service to function—you’re intentionally “roaming” on international networks, but at the prepaid rates you’ve already purchased. Without enabling data roaming, your eSIM won’t connect to any networks, leaving you without service despite successful installation.
Verifying Successful Installation
After completing configuration, verify your eSIM installed correctly by checking several indicators. In Settings > Cellular, you should see your RedEx eSIM listed alongside your primary SIM (if present). The eSIM should display “No Service” or “Searching…” until you arrive at your destination country—this is normal behavior before reaching covered territories. Once you land and power on your device, the eSIM should automatically connect to a partner network within 30-60 seconds, displaying the carrier name (like “Vodafone” or “Orange”) and signal bars.
To confirm data connectivity, disable Wi-Fi temporarily and open a web browser or app that requires internet access. If pages load normally, your eSIM is functioning correctly. Check Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data to verify that data is routing through your RedEx eSIM rather than your primary SIM. You can also download the RedEx app (if you haven’t already) to monitor real-time data usage and confirm your plan is active. The app dashboard displays your current network connection, remaining data allocation, and validity period countdown.
Step-by-Step: Installing eSIM on Android Devices
Android eSIM installation varies slightly among manufacturers due to customized user interfaces, but the fundamental process remains similar across Samsung, Google Pixel, Huawei, and other brands. We’ll cover the three most common Android implementations, which collectively represent approximately 80% of eSIM-compatible Android devices in use. Before beginning, ensure your Android device is running version 9.0 (Pie) or later—earlier versions lack eSIM support. Check your Android version in Settings > About Phone > Software Information.
Like iPhone installation, you’ll need your QR code ready. After purchasing your RedEx plan, you’ll receive an email with your unique QR code within 60 seconds. Open this email on a separate device for easy scanning, or use RedEx’s direct installation link if installing on the same device that received the email. Ensure you have stable Wi-Fi connectivity before beginning, as the eSIM profile downloads during installation and requires active internet access.
Samsung Galaxy Devices (One UI)
Samsung’s One UI provides one of the most intuitive eSIM installation experiences on Android. Begin by opening Settings and tapping Connections. Scroll down and tap “SIM card manager” (or “SIM manager” on some models). At the bottom of the screen, tap “Add mobile plan” or “Add eSIM.” Samsung presents two options: “Scan carrier QR code” and “Enter activation code manually.” Select “Scan carrier QR code” to proceed with QR installation.
Your camera activates automatically. Position your device’s rear camera over the QR code, ensuring adequate lighting and that the entire code fits within the frame guidelines. Samsung’s camera recognizes the QR code within 2-3 seconds and displays a preview of the plan details, including the provider name (RedEx) and plan description. Tap “Add” or “Confirm” to download the eSIM profile. The download typically completes in 15-30 seconds, after which Samsung displays a success message: “Mobile plan added.”
After installation, configure your eSIM settings by returning to Settings > Connections > SIM card manager. You’ll see both your physical SIM and your new RedEx eSIM listed. Tap your RedEx eSIM to access its settings. Toggle “Mobile data” ON to enable data connectivity through this profile. Critically, you must also enable “Data roaming”—tap the eSIM, scroll down, and toggle “Data roaming” ON. As with iPhone, this setting is essential for eSIM functionality despite the potentially confusing terminology. Without data roaming enabled, your eSIM won’t connect to international networks.
Google Pixel Devices (Stock Android)
Google Pixel devices running stock Android offer clean, straightforward eSIM installation. Open Settings and tap “Network & Internet.” Tap the plus icon (+) next to “SIMs” or tap “SIMs” and then “Add a SIM.” Pixel presents two options: “Download a SIM instead?” and “Need help?” Select “Download a SIM instead?” to proceed with eSIM installation. On the next screen, tap “Next” when prompted with “Set up your phone with a SIM.”
Pixel’s camera activates for QR code scanning. Position your device over the QR code, ensuring the entire code is visible within the frame. The camera recognizes the code within 2-3 seconds and displays a confirmation screen showing the carrier information. Tap “Download” to proceed. The eSIM profile downloads in 15-30 seconds, after which Pixel displays “SIM downloaded” with a checkmark. Tap “Done” to complete installation.
Configure your eSIM by returning to Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs. You’ll see your RedEx eSIM listed alongside any physical SIM. Tap the RedEx eSIM to access its settings. Toggle “Use SIM” ON to activate the profile. Scroll down and toggle “Roaming” ON—this critical setting enables connectivity on international networks. You can also set your RedEx eSIM as the default for mobile data by tapping “Mobile data” at the top of the SIMs screen and selecting your RedEx profile. This ensures all internet traffic routes through your travel data plan rather than your primary carrier.
Huawei Devices (EMUI/HarmonyOS)
Huawei devices running EMUI or HarmonyOS support eSIM on select models, though availability varies by region due to regulatory restrictions. Open Settings and tap “Mobile Network.” Tap “SIM Management” and then “Add eSIM.” Huawei presents options for QR code scanning or manual entry. Select “Scan QR code” to proceed with camera-based installation.
Position your device’s camera over the QR code. Huawei’s camera recognizes the code and displays plan details including provider name and data allocation. Tap “Add” or “Continue” to download the profile. After successful download (15-30 seconds), Huawei displays a confirmation message. Return to Settings > Mobile Network > SIM Management to configure your eSIM. Tap your RedEx eSIM and toggle “Mobile data” ON. Critically, also enable “Data roaming” by toggling the roaming switch ON. Without this setting, your eSIM won’t connect to networks despite successful installation.
Managing Multiple SIM Profiles: Dual SIM Configuration
One of eSIM technology’s most valuable features is enabling true dual SIM functionality without requiring two physical SIM slots. You can maintain your primary SIM card for receiving calls and texts on your home number while routing all data traffic through your cost-effective eSIM plan. This configuration eliminates the need to inform contacts of temporary number changes or miss important calls while traveling. However, proper configuration is essential to avoid accidentally using your primary carrier’s expensive roaming data.
On iPhone, configure dual SIM behavior in Settings > Cellular. You’ll see both your primary SIM and RedEx eSIM listed. Tap “Cellular Data” and select your RedEx eSIM as the default data line—this routes all internet traffic through your travel plan. For “Default Voice Line,” select your primary SIM so outgoing calls use your regular number. Under “Cellular Data Switching,” toggle this OFF to prevent iOS from automatically switching to your primary SIM’s data if your eSIM signal weakens temporarily. This setting is critical for avoiding surprise roaming charges.
On Android, dual SIM configuration varies by manufacturer but follows similar principles. Samsung users navigate to Settings > Connections > SIM card manager and tap “Mobile data” to select which SIM handles data traffic—choose your RedEx eSIM. For calls and texts, you can set defaults or choose manually for each call. Google Pixel users access Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs, tap “Mobile data,” and select their RedEx eSIM. Both platforms allow you to customize which SIM handles calls, texts, and data independently, providing granular control over your connectivity.
Optimizing Battery Life with Dual SIM
Running two SIM profiles simultaneously increases battery consumption because your device maintains connections to two separate networks. To optimize battery life while traveling, consider these strategies. First, if you don’t need to receive calls on your primary number, turn off that SIM completely in your device settings—this eliminates the battery drain of maintaining that network connection. You can still access voicemail and messages when you return home or periodically enable the SIM to check for urgent communications.
Second, disable automatic app updates and background app refresh for non-essential apps. These features consume data and battery in the background, depleting your eSIM allocation faster than necessary. On iPhone, go to Settings > General > Background App Refresh and toggle OFF for apps you don’t need updating constantly. On Android, navigate to Settings > Apps > select individual apps > Mobile data & Wi-Fi > toggle “Background data” OFF for non-essential apps. These adjustments can extend battery life by 20-30% while traveling.
Troubleshooting Common eSIM Installation Issues
Despite following installation instructions carefully, you may encounter errors that prevent successful eSIM activation. Understanding common issues and their solutions helps you resolve problems quickly, ideally before departing for your trip. The most frequent installation errors relate to carrier lock status, incorrect settings, or temporary server issues—all solvable with systematic troubleshooting.
“Cellular Plan Cannot Be Added” or “Unable to Complete Cellular Plan Change”
This error typically indicates your device is carrier-locked, meaning it’s restricted to your current mobile operator and cannot accept eSIM profiles from third-party providers. Verify your unlock status by contacting your carrier directly and asking: “Is my device carrier-unlocked for use with other providers?” If locked, request unlocking—most carriers comply within 24-48 hours once contract obligations are met. In the United States, carriers are legally required to unlock devices upon request after contracts are fulfilled.
Occasionally, this error appears on unlocked devices due to temporary server issues or corrupted QR codes. Try these solutions: restart your device completely and attempt installation again; ensure you have strong Wi-Fi connectivity (weak signals can interrupt profile downloads); request a new QR code from RedEx support if the original code is damaged or won’t scan properly. If problems persist after trying these steps, contact RedEx’s 24/7 support team through live chat or phone—they can verify your eSIM status on their backend and push a manual refresh if needed.
“No Service” or “Searching…” After Installation
If your eSIM installs successfully but displays “No Service” or continuously searches for networks, the most common cause is disabled data roaming. Navigate to your eSIM settings (Settings > Cellular > [your eSIM] on iPhone; Settings > Connections > SIM card manager > [your eSIM] on Samsung) and verify that “Data Roaming” is toggled ON. This counterintuitive setting must be enabled for eSIM functionality—you’re intentionally roaming on international networks at your prepaid rates.
If data roaming is already enabled, try manually selecting a network. On iPhone, go to Settings > Cellular > [your eSIM] > Network Selection, toggle “Automatic” OFF, and wait 30-60 seconds for available networks to appear. Select one of RedEx’s partner carriers (like Vodafone, Orange, or AT&T depending on your location). On Android, navigate to Settings > Connections > Mobile networks > Network operators, toggle “Select automatically” OFF, and manually choose a carrier. Manual selection often resolves connectivity issues when automatic network detection fails.
“SIM Not Supported” or “Invalid SIM”
These errors indicate either device incompatibility or carrier lock issues. First, verify your device actually supports eSIM by dialing *#06# and checking for an EID number. If no EID appears, your device lacks eSIM capability and cannot use digital SIM profiles—you’ll need to use traditional physical SIM cards instead. If an EID is present, the error likely stems from carrier lock restrictions. Contact your current carrier to verify unlock status and request unlocking if necessary.
In rare cases, these errors occur on compatible, unlocked devices due to software bugs or corrupted eSIM profiles. Try these advanced troubleshooting steps: update your device to the latest iOS or Android version (Settings > General > Software Update on iPhone; Settings > Software update on Android); reset network settings (Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings on iPhone—note this erases saved Wi-Fi passwords); delete the problematic eSIM profile completely and reinstall from scratch using a fresh QR code from RedEx. If issues persist, contact RedEx support for backend verification and potential profile reset.
eSIM Installation Comparison: iPhone vs Android
| Feature | iPhone (iOS) | Samsung (One UI) | Google Pixel (Stock Android) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compatible Models | iPhone XS/XR and newer | Galaxy S20 and newer | Pixel 3 and newer |
| OS Requirement | iOS 12.1+ | Android 9.0+ | Android 9.0+ |
| Settings Path | Settings > Cellular > Add Plan | Settings > Connections > SIM Manager | Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs |
| Installation Time | 2-3 minutes | 2-3 minutes | 2-3 minutes |
| QR Code Support | Automatic camera activation | Automatic camera activation | Automatic camera activation |
| Manual Installation | Yes (Enter Details Manually) | Yes (Enter activation code) | Yes (Enter manually) |
| Dual SIM Support | 1 physical + 1 eSIM | 1 physical + 1 eSIM (varies by model) | 1 physical + 1 eSIM |
| Roaming Setting | Cellular > [eSIM] > Data Roaming | SIM Manager > [eSIM] > Data roaming | Network & Internet > [eSIM] > Roaming |
Frequently Asked Questions About eSIM Installation
Can I install an eSIM without Wi-Fi or mobile data?
No, eSIM installation requires active internet connectivity because the eSIM profile downloads from the provider’s server during setup. You need either Wi-Fi or mobile data from your existing SIM card to complete installation. This requirement means you should install your eSIM before departing for international travel, using your home Wi-Fi network or reliable mobile data connection. Attempting installation in airports or hotels with unreliable public Wi-Fi often results in failed downloads or corrupted profiles. If you forget to install before departure and lack Wi-Fi at your destination, most airports offer free Wi-Fi in arrival areas—connect to airport Wi-Fi and complete installation before leaving the terminal. Alternatively, some cafes and hotels provide guest Wi-Fi that you can use for the brief 2-3 minute installation process.
How many eSIM profiles can I store on my device?
Storage capacity varies by device. Most iPhones can store 8-10 eSIM profiles simultaneously, though only one eSIM can be active at a time (alongside one physical SIM for dual SIM functionality). Android capacity varies by manufacturer: Samsung devices typically store 5-7 profiles, Google Pixel devices store 4-5 profiles, and Huawei devices store 3-5 profiles depending on model. Storing multiple profiles proves convenient for frequent travelers who visit the same destinations repeatedly—you can keep region-specific eSIMs installed and simply reactivate them when returning to those areas. To manage stored profiles on iPhone, go to Settings > Cellular and tap on individual plans to activate, deactivate, or delete them. On Android, navigate to your SIM management settings and select profiles to enable, disable, or remove. Deleting unused profiles frees storage space for new ones, though you’ll need to reinstall if you want to use that provider again in the future.
What happens if I accidentally delete my eSIM profile?
Deleting an eSIM profile removes it from your device, but your purchased plan remains valid on the provider’s servers. You can reinstall using the same QR code you received originally—the QR code doesn’t expire and can be used multiple times to reinstall the same profile. Simply navigate to your eSIM installation settings (Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan on iPhone; Settings > Connections > SIM card manager > Add mobile plan on Samsung) and scan the original QR code again. The profile reinstalls in 15-30 seconds, and your remaining data allocation and validity period remain unchanged. If you’ve lost the original QR code email, contact RedEx support through their app or website—they can resend your QR code instantly. This reinstallation capability provides peace of mind if you accidentally delete your profile or need to switch devices mid-trip. Simply install the same eSIM on your new device using the original QR code, and your plan continues functioning normally.
Can I transfer my eSIM to a new phone?
eSIM transfer capabilities depend on your device ecosystem. iPhone users running iOS 16 or later can transfer eSIMs directly between iPhones using Apple’s eSIM Quick Transfer feature during device setup or through Settings > Cellular > select eSIM > Transfer to Another iPhone. This feature works when both devices are nearby and signed into the same Apple ID. The transfer process moves the eSIM profile from your old device to your new one, deactivating it on the original device. However, not all eSIM providers support Quick Transfer—RedEx profiles can be transferred, but some budget providers restrict this functionality. For Android devices, direct eSIM transfer between phones is not currently supported. Instead, you must delete the profile from your old device and reinstall it on your new device using the original QR code. Contact RedEx support if you encounter issues during transfer—they can verify your profile status and provide a fresh QR code if needed. When upgrading devices, we recommend keeping your old phone powered on with the eSIM active until you’ve successfully installed and tested the profile on your new device, ensuring continuity of service.
Do I need to install my eSIM before traveling or can I wait until I arrive?
We strongly recommend installing your eSIM before departure while you have reliable Wi-Fi and time to troubleshoot any issues. Installing at home eliminates the stress of dealing with technical problems in unfamiliar airports or hotels where Wi-Fi may be unreliable or unavailable. Additionally, pre-installation allows you to verify that your device is carrier-unlocked and eSIM-compatible before you’re dependent on the service. If you discover compatibility issues or carrier lock problems after arriving at your destination, you’ll have limited options for resolution. That said, eSIM installation is technically possible after arrival if you have Wi-Fi access. Most international airports offer free Wi-Fi in arrival areas—connect to airport Wi-Fi and complete the 2-3 minute installation process before leaving the terminal. Hotels, cafes, and restaurants with guest Wi-Fi also work for installation. Remember that your eSIM plan typically activates upon first connection to a mobile network, not at installation time, so installing early doesn’t waste validity days. Install at your convenience before travel, and your plan will activate automatically when you land and your device connects to a partner network.
Why does my eSIM show “No Service” even though I followed all installation steps?
The most common cause of “No Service” after successful installation is disabled data roaming. Navigate to your eSIM settings and verify that “Data Roaming” is toggled ON—this counterintuitive setting must be enabled for eSIM functionality because you’re intentionally roaming on international networks at your prepaid rates. On iPhone, check Settings > Cellular > [your eSIM] > Data Roaming. On Samsung, check Settings > Connections > SIM card manager > [your eSIM] > Data roaming. On Google Pixel, check Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > [your eSIM] > Roaming. If data roaming is already enabled, try these additional troubleshooting steps: restart your device completely (power off and on); manually select a network by disabling automatic network selection and choosing one of RedEx’s partner carriers; verify you’re in a country covered by your plan (a Europe plan won’t work in Asia); check that your plan hasn’t expired or depleted its data allocation through the RedEx app. If “No Service” persists after trying these solutions, contact RedEx’s 24/7 support team through live chat or phone—they can verify your eSIM status on their backend, confirm network availability in your location, and push a remote refresh if needed. During our testing, RedEx support resolved simulated “No Service” issues in under 6 minutes through backend verification and manual network registration.
Final Tips for Successful eSIM Installation
Successful eSIM installation comes down to preparation and attention to detail. Before purchasing any eSIM plan, verify your device is both eSIM-compatible and carrier-unlocked—these prerequisites are non-negotiable and cannot be bypassed. Install your eSIM while connected to reliable Wi-Fi at home, giving yourself time to troubleshoot any issues without the pressure of imminent travel. Save your QR code email in multiple locations (email archive, cloud storage, screenshot on your device) so you can reinstall if needed during your trip.
After installation, verify that data roaming is enabled for your eSIM profile—this critical setting confuses many first-time users but is essential for connectivity. Configure your dual SIM settings carefully to route data through your eSIM while maintaining your primary SIM for calls and texts, avoiding expensive roaming charges on your home carrier. Download the RedEx app before traveling to monitor real-time data usage and access support if needed. Finally, test your eSIM connectivity immediately upon landing by disabling Wi-Fi and loading a webpage—this confirms everything is working before you leave the airport and need navigation or communication services.
eSIM technology transforms international travel by eliminating the hassle of purchasing local SIM cards, waiting in airport kiosks, or dealing with physical SIM swaps. Once you’ve successfully installed your first eSIM, future installations become routine, taking just two to three minutes regardless of destination. The combination of instant activation, flexible data management, and the ability to maintain your primary number creates a seamless connectivity experience that lets you focus on your travels rather than technical logistics. With this guide’s detailed instructions and troubleshooting solutions, you’re fully equipped to install and activate your RedEx eSIM confidently, ensuring reliable connectivity from the moment you land at your destination.