Is your Android compatible with eSIM? How exactly is it activated? These are the questions we constantly receive from travelers who want to enjoy local data abroad without complications. In this guide, we answer everything in detail.
eSIM is already a standard technology in most mid-range and high-end smartphones, but the activation process varies by manufacturer and model. Here's the specific guide for Android.
Which Android models are compatible with eSIM?
eSIM compatibility depends on the specific model and, in some cases, the market where it was sold. Some operators in specific countries sell locked versions that do not support eSIM.
As a general rule, Android models released from 2019-2020 onwards include eSIM support. To check if your specific model is compatible:
- iPhone / Apple: Go to Settings → General → About. If you see "EID Number", your phone has eSIM.
- Android (Samsung, Motorola, Google Pixel): Go to Settings → Connections (or Network) → SIM Manager. If you see an option to "Add data plan" or "eSIM", your phone is compatible.
If you purchased the phone with a carrier contract, it may be locked for third-party eSIMs. In that case, contact your carrier to request unlocking (it's free in many countries once the contract ends).
How to check compatibility before buying
Before buying an eSIM for your Android, check these three points:
1. Does your model have eSIM? Look up your exact model on the manufacturer's website. The list of compatible models is updated every year. Don't assume that all models in a range have eSIM: within the same series, there can be some with and without support.
2. Is it unlocked? A phone purchased with a carrier contract may have restrictions on using eSIMs from other providers. Call your carrier or check your network settings to verify if there are portability restrictions.
3. How many eSIMs does it support simultaneously? Most modern phones support one physical SIM + one active eSIM, although they can store several eSIM profiles. Some recent models (iPhone 15 onwards in the USA) are eSIM-only, with no physical slot.
If you have any questions, PuraSim's support team can help you verify compatibility before you make your purchase.
How to activate eSIM on Android step-by-step
The activation process is very similar on all compatible devices. Here is the generic guide and specific variations:
On iPhone:
- Go to Settings → Mobile Data → Add Data Plan
- Scan the PuraSim QR code or select "Enter details manually"
- Give the plan a name (e.g., "PuraSim Travel")
- Configure which line to use for data: select the PuraSim plan
- Activate "Data Roaming" in the PuraSim plan settings
On Android (Samsung, Motorola, Google Pixel):
- Go to Settings → Connections → SIM Manager
- Select "Add mobile plan" or "Add eSIM"
- Scan the PuraSim QR code
- Accept the terms and wait for the profile to download
- Select the PuraSim plan as the data line
- Activate data roaming if required by the system
The entire process takes between 3 and 8 minutes. If you encounter any problems, PuraSim support is available in Spanish to help you.
Optimal configuration for travel
Once the eSIM is installed on your Android, there are some additional settings that improve the user experience during your trip:
- Mobile data → Data line: select the PuraSim plan. This way, all data goes through the eSIM without using your local SIM's roaming.
- Calls and SMS: keep your local SIM for calls and SMS. This way you continue to receive on your usual number.
- iMessage/FaceTime (iPhone): configure them to work via the data eSIM to avoid international SMS charges.
- Automatic updates: disable them or set them to Wi-Fi only during your trip. System updates can consume GBs without you realizing it.
- Airplane mode during flight: activate it during the flight, but then deactivate it manually (not full airplane mode, just deactivate Wi-Fi if there isn't any). The eSIM needs to register on the local network upon arrival.
With this configuration, your Android will be optimized to maximize the performance and duration of your PuraSim data plan.
Common problems and how to solve them
Most activations go smoothly. But if you have any issues, here are the most frequent solutions:
The eSIM does not connect at the destination:
- Verify that "Data Roaming" is activated on the PuraSim eSIM (many phones have it deactivated by default)
- Try selecting the network manually: Settings → Mobile data → Network → Manual selection
- Restart the phone with the eSIM activated
The QR code does not work:
- Verify that the QR code has not been used before (it can only be scanned once)
- Make sure the phone is connected to Wi-Fi before scanning
- Contact PuraSim to have the code resent if there was a problem
Slow speed:
- Verify that you are using data from the correct eSIM (not your local carrier's)
- Some buildings or areas have weak coverage, try moving
- Restart the data connection
Frequently asked questions
How many eSIMs can I have installed on my Android?
Most modern devices support storing multiple eSIM profiles (up to 8-10 in some cases), but only one or two can be active simultaneously. You can save profiles from different countries and activate the one you need for each trip.
Does the eSIM disappear if I perform a factory reset?
Yes. When you perform a factory reset, all installed eSIM profiles are deleted. Keep the original PuraSim QR code in a safe place in case you need to reinstall it. Contact support if you lost the code.
Can I transfer the eSIM to another phone?
Not directly. eSIM profiles are linked to the device for security. If you change phones, you need to contact PuraSim to get a new QR code for the new device (applies according to the plan conditions).
What is the difference between eSIM and virtual SIM?
They are the same concept with different names. eSIM (embedded SIM) is the physical chip integrated into the phone. The 'virtual SIM' or 'eSIM profile' is the software that downloads the operator's profile to that chip. All PuraSim plans are standard eSIM.
Does eSIM affect the phone's warranty?
No. eSIM is a standard manufacturer feature. Using an eSIM from a different operator than the original does not affect the device's warranty. It is equivalent to using a physical SIM from any operator.
Activate your eSIM before you leave and arrive connected from the very first moment.
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