Troubleshooting Common eSIM Activation Issues

1️⃣ “eSIM Cannot Be Added” Error

Possible causes

• QR code already used

• Device not compatible

• Phone locked to a carrier

How to fix

1. Confirm your phone supports eSIM.

2. Make sure the device is carrier-unlocked.

3. Request a new QR code from your carrier.

4. Restart your phone and try scanning again.

2️⃣ QR Code Won’t Scan

Possible causes

• Camera cannot focus

• Poor lighting

• QR code expired

Fix

• Increase brightness and move the phone closer.

• Try scanning from a printed QR code instead of another screen.

• Enter the activation code manually if provided by the carrier.

3️⃣ eSIM Installed but No Network

Possible causes

• APN not configured

• Network not selected

• Coverage issues

Fix

1. Go to Settings → Cellular / Mobile Data.

2. Select the eSIM profile.

3. Turn Data Roaming ON (for travel eSIM).

4. Manually select the network operator.

If still not working:

• Reset Network Settings.

4️⃣ “Activation in Progress” Stuck

Possible causes

• Carrier server delay

• Weak internet connection

Fix

• Connect to stable Wi-Fi.

• Restart the device.

• Wait 10–15 minutes and check again.

5️⃣ Cannot Add More eSIM Profiles

Phones usually limit the number of stored profiles.

Typical limits:

• iPhones: up to 8 stored profiles

• Samsung phones: 5–10 profiles depending on model

Fix

• Delete unused eSIM profiles.

6️⃣ eSIM Not Showing After Installation

Possible causes

• Software bug

• Phone not updated

Fix

1. Update the operating system.

2. Restart the phone.

3. Reset network settings.

7️⃣ “Carrier Not Supported”

Some phones sold in specific regions restrict eSIM usage.

Fix

• Contact the carrier.

• Use a global eSIM provider if your network blocks activation.

📱 Quick eSIM Setup Paths

On iPhone

Devices from Apple
Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Scan QR Code

On Samsung

Devices from Samsung
Settings → Connections → SIM Manager → Add eSIM

On Pixel

Devices from Google
Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs → Download eSIM

✅ Extra tip:
Always activate eSIM while connected to Wi-Fi, because the phone needs internet access to download the carrier profile.