Before you board the plane to your destination, here is a step-by-step explanation on how to install an eSIM.
Important to know:
- To install an eSIM, make sure you have an eSIM-compatible and network unlocked device.
- For a successful installation, you MUST have a stable Wi-Fi connection when installing an eSIM.
- Installing your eSIM before you travel will not affect data usage or validity; with exceptions (see list at the end). Your eSIM will only be activated upon arrival at your destination. Validity starts once you are connected to the local provider. If the eSIM covers more than one country, it will be activated in each of the covered countries (eSIMs activated at the time of installation: Ubigi and Dtac)
Add eSIM mobile data plan
Go to Settings > Mobile network > Add eSIM
Install eSIM via QR code or manual installation
Scan the QR code or manually enter your eSIM details.
Label your eSIM
Once your eSIM has been added, you can tag it to help you manage and identify it, e.g. Smissey - {Destination}
Set your primary default line
Set your 'Primary' subscription as the default line so you can continue to use your number to make calls and send messages.
Add to iMessage, FaceTime and Apple ID
Select your 'Primary' plan to continue using your number for iMessage, FaceTime and Apple ID.
Set up your eSIM for mobile data
Choose your eSIM data plan. You will need to enable this so that you can check the APN settings in the next step.
Important: Turn off 'Allow mobile data switching' to avoid high roaming bills on your primary data plan.
Check if you need to edit your eSIM's APN settings
Changing your APN gives you access to mobile data.
Update your APN settings if necessary
Go to Settings > Mobile network > choose your eSIM subscription > Mobile data network. Change it in the APN settings of your eSIM. Other APN fields are optional.
After completing the above steps, the installation is complete!
You can disable your eSIM for the time being. Turn it back on when you're about to board your flight or when you land. See additional instructions below. Your eSIM will be activated as soon as your phone is connected to your destination's network.
When you arrive: Turn on your eSIM and data roaming
Enable your eSIM:
- Go to Settings.
- Mobile network.
- Choose eSIM.
- Turn on this line.
Make sure you use your eSIM as your primary line when you travel.
- Go to Settings.
- Mobile network.
- Primary.
- Choose active eSIM.
Important note: Disable data roaming on your primary plan to avoid unnecessary roaming charges.
For some eSIMs to work, data roaming must be enabled.
Check your eSIM setup information to verify this.
Once you know if it should be enabled, go to Settings > Mobile network > Mobile data > Choose your eSIM.
How do you know if your eSIM is active?
2 ways to check eSIM activation status
This option applies after installation is complete and only when you reach your destination. your eSIM must connect to a local network to be activated.
The icons in the status bar at the top of the screen show the signal strength of your two providers.
You can see more status icons when you open Control Center by swiping down.
You can also find out more about your dual SIM status via Settings > Mobile data > Data plans > On/off
If you have any questions, please visit ourhelp page, we will be happy to assist you there.