TheSIM
TheSIM
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What Is an eSIM and How Do You Set It Up? Step-by-Step Guide

A digital SIM built into your phone that needs no physical SIM card. Below you'll find a step-by-step setup, settings, and troubleshooting guide for iPhone and Android.

A traditional SIM card is inserted into a tray; an eSIM is already built into the device. All you need to do is download a carrier profile digitally.

That means no queuing at the airport, no ID copies, and you're connected the moment you land. Your own line stays active too — WhatsApp, calls, and texts keep working as normal.

4-step summary

1. Choose your plan

Pick your destination and duration in the app.

2. Scan the QR code

Add the QR code you received from your phone settings.

3. Travel

Your eSIM activates automatically when you arrive.

4. Connect

Turn on data roaming and get online instantly.

Detailed setup by device

We recommend setting up before you travel, while connected to Wi-Fi at home.

iPhone (iOS 16 and above)

  1. 1Connect your phone to Wi-Fi (internet is required for setup).
  2. 2Go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM.
  3. 3Tap "Use QR Code" and scan the QR code in the TheSIM app.
  4. 4If the code won't scan, tap "Enter Details Manually" and paste the SM-DP+ address and activation code.
  5. 5Name the line, e.g. "Travel" (keep your own line as "Primary").
  6. 6Default line: your own number. Cellular data: select the TheSIM eSIM.
  7. 7Leave "Allow Cellular Data Switching" turned OFF.
  8. 8Once abroad, go to Settings → Cellular → TheSIM → and turn on Data Roaming.

Android (Samsung, Pixel, Xiaomi)

  1. 1Connect your phone to Wi-Fi.
  2. 2Go to Settings → Connections / Network & Internet → SIM cards.
  3. 3Tap "Add SIM" → "Add eSIM" / "Download a SIM instead".
  4. 4Scan the QR code in the TheSIM app; enter the activation code manually if prompted.
  5. 5Once the download finishes, activate the eSIM profile and name it "Travel".
  6. 6Select the TheSIM eSIM for mobile data, and your own line for calls/SMS.
  7. 7On arrival, turn on data roaming for the TheSIM line.
  8. 8If you don't get connected, enter the APN value shown in the app and toggle airplane mode off and on.

Pre-setup checklist

  • Your device supports eSIM and is carrier-unlocked.
  • You have a stable Wi-Fi connection.
  • Your device software is up to date (iOS 16+ / Android 11+ recommended).
  • You have a second screen or printout ready to scan the QR code.

Common mistakes

  • Forgetting to switch the default cellular data line.
  • Leaving data roaming off (it must be on for eSIM).
  • Leaving roaming on for your own line, risking extra charges.
  • Accidentally deleting the eSIM profile.

Troubleshooting

Does your device support eSIM?

Check our up-to-date compatible device list for iPhone, Samsung, Google Pixel, Xiaomi, Huawei, and more.

Compatible devices listDownload the app

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