How to install an eSIM with one phone, without scanning a QR code

You can install an eSIM without scanning a QR code: open the order email on the same phone, then install from the code in the email or enter the SM-DP+ address and activation code manually. You do not need a second screen.

Before you start

• Connect to a stable Wi-Fi network.
• Open your order email. For each eSIM it shows the QR code, the SM-DP+ address, the activation code and the full LPA string.
• Install only once, on the phone you will travel with.

iPhone: install without scanning a QR code

Install from the QR code in the email (iOS 17.4 or later)

1. Open the email in the Mail app or a browser.
2. Touch and hold the QR code image, then tap Add eSIM.
3. Tap Continue, then Add Cellular Plan.

Enter the details manually

1. Open Settings and tap Cellular (or Mobile Data).
2. Tap Add eSIM (on some versions: Set Up Cellular or Add Cellular Plan).
3. Tap Use QR Code (you may need to tap Other Options first), then tap Enter Details Manually at the bottom of the screen.
4. Enter the SM-DP+ address and the activation code from your email. Leave any confirmation code field empty.

Android

Samsung Galaxy

1. Open Settings > Connections > SIM manager.
2. Tap Add eSIM, then Scan QR code.
3. On the scanning screen, tap Enter activation code and enter the code from your email.

On some models the menu is SIM card manager > Add mobile plan > Add using activation code.

Google Pixel

1. Open Settings > Network & internet > SIMs > Add SIM > Set up an eSIM.
2. Follow the steps on the screen. If you are offered a way to enter the code instead of scanning, choose it and enter the details from your email.

Menu names vary by brand and software version.

Tips for copying the codes

• Copy only the code itself, with no spaces before or after it.
• Email apps may turn the SM-DP+ address into a link. Touch and hold it and copy the text rather than opening the link.
• If a field asks for one single code, paste the full LPA string (it starts with LPA:1$).
• Another option: open the email on a computer or another person's phone and scan the QR code from that screen.

After installing

Keep the eSIM installed and turn it on when you arrive. Before your trip it may show "No Service": that is normal, see eSIM stuck on Activating. The full steps for setting up the line are in our installation guide.

Still not working?

If the phone rejects the code, see Unable to activate eSIM first. Reply to your order email or write to us through the contact page (support@esimcircle.com). To get a fast answer, include your order number, the eSIM's ICCID, the country and network name your phone shows, and screenshots of the error and of the eSIM's cellular settings. See what to send support for where to find each item.