📡 eSIM Guide
How to Install an eSIM
on iPhone — Step by Step
Complete guide for iPhone XS and newer. QR code method, manual setup, activation, and troubleshooting.
📅 April 2026
·
⏱ 7 min read
Installing an eSIM on your iPhone takes about 2 minutes. This guide walks you through every step, from scanning the QR code to activating your data plan at your destination.
Before You Start — Checklist
✅ Make sure you have:
📱 An eSIM-compatible iPhone (iPhone XS or newer)
🔓 Your iPhone is carrier-unlocked
📶 A stable WiFi connection (needed to download the eSIM profile)
📧 Your QR code from Zyroam (check your email after purchase)
🖥 QR code displayed on another screen (laptop, tablet, or printed)
⚠️
Do this at home before your trip. You need WiFi to download the eSIM profile. Don't wait until you're at the airport — install it the night before you fly.
Method 1: QR Code Installation (Recommended)
This is the fastest and easiest method.
Settings
›
Cellular
›
Add eSIM
›
Use QR Code
1
Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
2
Tap "Cellular" (or "Mobile Data" in some regions).
3
Tap "Add eSIM" or "Add Cellular Plan."
4
Tap "Use QR Code" — your camera will activate.
5
Point your camera at the QR code from your Zyroam email. Your phone will detect it automatically.
6
Tap "Continue" to add the cellular plan. Download takes 30–60 seconds.
7
Label the plan — choose "Travel" or a custom name like "Zyroam Japan."
8
For Default Line settings: keep your primary number as default for calls/messages. Only set eSIM as data default when ready to use.
✅
Done! Your eSIM is installed and ready. It won't activate until you connect to a network at your destination.
Method 2: Manual Installation
If your QR code isn't scanning, you can enter the details manually.
Settings
›
Cellular
›
Add eSIM
›
Enter Details Manually
1
Enter the SM-DP+ address from your Zyroam email.
2
Enter the Activation Code.
3
Follow the same prompts as the QR method (label, default line settings).
How to Activate at Your Destination
Installing the eSIM doesn't start your plan. Your data validity begins when the eSIM connects to a network at your destination. Here's what to do when you land:
Settings
›
Cellular
›
Your eSIM line
›
Data Roaming: ON
1
Go to Settings → Cellular.
2
Tap your Zyroam eSIM line.
3
Enable "Turn On This Line".
4
Enable "Data Roaming" — this is essential!
5
Go back and set your eSIM as the "Cellular Data" line.
6
Wait 10–30 seconds for the carrier name and signal bars to appear.
⚠️
"Data Roaming" must be ON for your eSIM line. Without it, your eSIM won't connect to local networks. This doesn't affect your primary SIM's roaming — each line has its own setting.
Managing Dual SIM on iPhone
With your eSIM alongside your physical SIM, your iPhone is running dual SIM. Here's how to manage it:
📞
For calls & SMS: Keep your primary (home) SIM as the default line. You'll still receive calls and texts on your regular number.
📶
For data: Set your Zyroam eSIM as the Cellular Data line while traveling. Switch back when you return home.
🔄
Switching lines: Go to Settings → Cellular and tap any line to enable/disable it independently.
Troubleshooting
Your iPhone may be carrier-locked. Contact your carrier to request an unlock. Also verify your model supports eSIM (iPhone XS or newer).
Check that Data Roaming is ON for your eSIM line (Settings → Cellular → eSIM line → Data Roaming). Also ensure your eSIM is set as the Cellular Data line.
Display the QR code at full size and brightness on another screen. If it still won't scan, try the manual installation method using the SM-DP+ address and activation code from your email.
Toggle Airplane Mode on and off. If that doesn't work, check Settings → Cellular → eSIM line → Cellular Data Network and verify the APN settings match what Zyroam provided in your email.
Each QR code can typically only be scanned once. If you deleted the eSIM and need to reinstall, contact Zyroam support for a new QR code.
When You're Done Traveling
💤
Keep the eSIM (recommended): Go to Settings → Cellular → eSIM line → Turn Off This Line. The profile stays on your phone but uses no data or battery. Useful if you plan to revisit.
🗑
Delete the eSIM: Settings → Cellular → eSIM line → Delete eSIM. Note: once deleted, most plans cannot be re-downloaded with the same QR code.
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