If you're traveling with an Android phone and want data as soon as you land without struggling with physical cards, an Android eSIM is the most convenient solution. With PuraSim, you get coverage in 218 destinations, plans starting from $0.85, and activation with a QR code in 1 minute, with no roaming and 24/7 Spanish support. In this guide, I'll explain, with real data and step-by-step instructions, which Android phones support eSIM, how to check your compatibility, and how to install and activate an eSIM according to your phone's manufacturer.
Which Android phones support eSIM
Not all Android phones have eSIM, but most mid-range and high-end models released in recent years do. An eSIM is a chip soldered inside the phone that is programmed by software, so it depends on the specific model and, sometimes, the region of sale. These are the major compatible groups as of today.
- Samsung Galaxy: the S20 series and later (S21, S22, S23, S24), the Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip, and several recent Galaxy Note 20 and A models.
- Google Pixel: from Pixel 3 onwards (with the exception of some regional variants of Pixel 3/3a sold in Asia and Australia).
- Xiaomi: recent models like Xiaomi 12, 13, 14 and the 13T/14T series; eSIM support in Xiaomi came later, so it's advisable to verify your exact model.
- Oppo, Motorola, Huawei, and Sony: recent high-end models (Oppo Find X, Motorola Razr and Edge, Huawei P40/Mate, recent Sony Xperia) usually include it.
The rule of thumb: if your Android is from 2020 or later and is a mid-to-high-end model, there's a high probability it supports eSIM. Even so, it's best to check reliably, which is what we'll look at next. For a more complete list, check our guide on eSIM compatible phones.
How to check compatibility (EID and *#06#)
Before buying your plan, confirm that your phone accepts eSIM. There's a universal trick that works on almost all Androids and takes less than ten seconds to give you the answer.
Open the Phone app and dial *#06#. A screen will appear with several identifiers: IMEI, IMEI2, and, importantly, the EID (a 32-digit number). If you see an EID, your phone has an integrated physical eSIM. If it doesn't appear, your device does not support it.
The EID (eUICC Identifier) is the serial number of your phone's eSIM chip. Its existence means the hardware is ready; some operators and providers request it to activate the profile.
You can also check through the menus: in Settings > Connections (or Network & internet), look for the SIM or SIM manager option; if you see a button like Add eSIM or Add data plan, you're ready. With PuraSim, you can also check your specific model before paying to avoid surprises.
How to install eSIM on Android step-by-step
The general process is almost identical on all Androids, with minor variations in menu names. It's best to install the eSIM before you travel, with a good Wi-Fi connection at home, and leave data activation for when you land. Follow these steps for a smooth installation.
- After purchase, you'll receive a QR code via email (with PuraSim, it arrives instantly).
- Go to Settings > Connections (or Network & internet) > SIM or SIM manager.
- Tap Add eSIM / Add data plan and choose Scan QR code.
- Point your camera at the QR code. Your phone will automatically detect the profile.
- If it asks for a manual activation code (SM-DP+), copy it from the email and paste it.
- Confirm the profile download and label it clearly, for example, "Italy Travel".
When finished, you'll see your new eSIM listed alongside your main line. It won't consume data yet; you'll activate that at your destination. The process is the same concept as on iPhone, although the menus differ; if you're interested, we have a guide on eSIM installation and activation on iPhone.
Differences by manufacturer: Samsung, Pixel, Xiaomi, and Oppo
The part that causes the most confusion is finding the exact "add eSIM" button, because each brand customizes Android in its own way. Here are the exact paths for the most common manufacturers so you don't waste time searching.
| Manufacturer | Menu path |
|---|---|
| Samsung (One UI) | Settings > Connections > SIM Manager > Add eSIM |
| Google Pixel | Settings > Network & internet > SIMs > Download a SIM |
| Xiaomi (HyperOS/MIUI) | Settings > SIM cards & mobile networks > Add eSIM |
| Oppo / OnePlus (ColorOS) | Settings > Mobile network / SIM card & mobile data > Add eSIM |
| Motorola | Settings > Network & internet > SIMs > Add eSIM |
On Samsung, the flow is very guided, and it sometimes offers to convert the line to an eSIM. On Pixel, Google integrates the "Download a SIM" option very cleanly. On Xiaomi, support arrived later and depends on the HyperOS/MIUI version and the phone's region, so if you don't see the option, update your system. For specific details, consult our guides on eSIM installation on Samsung Galaxy and eSIM on Xiaomi.
Activating data when you arrive at your destination
Having the eSIM installed is not enough: you need to tell your phone to use it for data when you arrive in the country. This is the step most people forget, which is why they mistakenly think their plan isn't working. Activating it at your destination is quick.
- Upon landing, go to Settings > Connections / Network & internet > SIM manager.
- Select your PuraSim eSIM and toggle the line on.
- Under Mobile data, choose the travel eSIM as your default data line.
- Activate data roaming for that eSIM (this is necessary for the profile to connect to the local network; you won't be charged roaming fees by your carrier, because you're using PuraSim's local plan).
- Wait one or two minutes for your phone to register the network. If not, restart it.
From there, you'll be browsing with your local plan, you can share your connection via hotspot, and keep your main line only for calls or WhatsApp over Wi-Fi. Don't have a plan yet? Choose your eSIM for the country you're traveling to. If you want to better understand the technology, read what an eSIM is.
Common problems and how to solve them
Most issues can be resolved with a couple of taps. These are the most frequent failures when using an eSIM on Android and their direct solutions.
- The QR code doesn't scan: Clean it, increase your screen brightness, or enter the manual activation code (SM-DP+) provided in the email.
- No signal at destination: Check that you have activated the eSIM, selected the correct data line, and turned on data roaming for that profile.
- "Cannot download profile": You need stable Wi-Fi during installation; try again or install it before leaving home.
- Slow data: In Settings > SIM, check that the preferred network type is 5G/4G and restart your phone.
- You accidentally deleted the eSIM: Many profiles cannot be reinstalled from the same QR; contact PuraSim's 24/7 Spanish support before deleting anything.
If it still doesn't work after all this, write to us: PuraSim offers 24-hour Spanish support to guide you at any time, wherever you are.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Android is eSIM compatible?
Dial *#06# in the Phone app. If a 32-digit EID appears, your phone supports eSIM. You can also look for the "Add eSIM" option in Settings > SIM.
Do I need to activate roaming to use eSIM?
Yes, you must activate data roaming only for the travel eSIM profile. You will not be charged roaming fees by your carrier because you are browsing with PuraSim's local plan, not your original rate.
Can I install the eSIM before traveling?
Yes, and it's recommended. Install it at home with Wi-Fi and leave data activation for when you land. This way, everything is ready in less than a minute.
Can I share internet via hotspot with the eSIM?
Yes. PuraSim eSIMs allow you to share your connection via hotspot with other devices, just as you would with a physical SIM.
Will I lose my WhatsApp number when using eSIM?
No. Your main line and number remain intact; the eSIM only manages data. WhatsApp and your apps work normally over the eSIM connection.
Does eSIM work the same on Samsung, Pixel, and Xiaomi?
The concept is identical; only the menu path changes. On Samsung, it's in SIM Manager, on Pixel in "Download a SIM," and on Xiaomi within SIM cards & mobile networks.
Conclusion
Installing an Android eSIM is simple: check compatibility with *#06#, scan the QR from Settings > SIM, label it, and activate data with roaming upon arrival at your destination. Samsung, Pixel, and Xiaomi only change the menu name, but the flow is the same. With PuraSim, you get 218 destinations, plans from $0.85, 1-minute QR activation, hotspot, and 24/7 Spanish support, all without abusive roaming. Choose your eSIM and travel connected from the first minute. For technical system questions, also consult Android's eSIM support.
