eSIM QR Codes: What Are They? And How Do You Get One?

Setting up a traditional SIM card can be a hassle—time-consuming, frustrating, and confusing. Fortunately, eSIM technology is transforming connectivity, offering a digital alternative that’s both flexible and efficient. 

However, even with these advancements, eSIM setup can present challenges if incorrectly handled, often leaving users perplexed or disconnected.

eSIM QR Codes offer a simple, one-scan solution that takes the complexity out of activation. Whether switching carriers, traveling internationally, or setting up multiple profiles, eSim technology eliminates manual entry errors and drastically reduces setup time. This makes connectivity seamless and frustration-free while improving the user experience and your brand’s reputation.

In this article, we’ll explore how QR Codes work with eSIM and why they’re so effective in today’s mobile world.

What is eSIM?

eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital SIM that’s built directly into devices like smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches. Unlike traditional SIM cards, which require physical insertion, eSIMs allow users to activate and switch carriers remotely. This software-based solution offers unmatched convenience and flexibility.

To appreciate the impact of eSIM, let’s revisit traditional SIM cards. Introduced in the 1990s, these compact cards enabled mobile connectivity but required manual removal and insertion to switch networks or devices—a process that was often frustrating and tedious. eSIM eliminates these issues, offering a smoother, more efficient way to stay connected.

Originally developed in 2012 by the Global System for Mobile Communications (GSMA) and leading telecom vendors for the Internet of Things (IoT), eSIM was initially designed to simplify and secure machine connectivity. By 2016, the GSMA recognized its potential for consumers and approved eSIM for personal devices. Tech giants like Google and Apple quickly adopted it, enabling users to switch network providers with a simple tap. 

Since then, eSIM usage has rapidly grown and transformed how we connect in a digital-first world. In 2023 alone, eSIM profile downloads more than doubled, demonstrating the increasing demand for this convenient, reprogrammable technology. With eSIM, users can store multiple carrier profiles on a single device and switch between them effortlessly, all while benefiting from a seamless and straightforward setup process.

How to tell if your device is eSIM compatible

As eSIM becomes the go-to choice for mobile connectivity, knowing whether your device is compatible is key. Here’s how to check:

Step 1: Check your device settings

One of the easiest ways to see if your device supports eSIM is through your device’s settings. For iPhones, go to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM. If the option to Set Up Cellular appears, your device is eSIM-compatible! You should have two options to set up your eSIM: Transfer From Nearby iPhone or Use QR Code. 

Android users can follow a similar path by navigating to Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network > Advanced and looking for the Carrier or Add Carrier option. 

If you don’t see these options, your device likely doesn’t support eSIM—but don’t worry, eSIM compatibility is becoming more common across a range of devices, so your next upgrade might be eSIM-ready.

Step 2: Consult your manufacturer’s website

Device manufacturers like Apple, Google, and Samsung maintain up-to-date lists of devices that support eSIM. For example, Apple started integrating eSIM with the iPhone XS, while Google introduced it with the Pixel 2. 

If your device doesn’t include eSIM functionality, it may be because it’s too old or isn’t high-spec enough. Older or more affordable models may not support eSIM, as manufacturers tend to prioritize cost-effectiveness over tried-and-true tech like physical SIM cards. 

Why do I need an eSIM QR Code?

An eSIM QR Code is your gateway to instant connectivity. These scannable codes allow you to download and activate an eSIM profile on your device without needing a physical SIM card. With just a scan, your phone or tablet instantly connects to the network and automatically sets up your data plan.

Carriers like Verizon and T-Mobile offer eSIM QR Codes because they simplify activation. When signing up or switching providers, the QR Code encoded with the data you need instantly loads your carrier’s profile onto your device, eliminating manual setup steps.

Some carriers, like T-Mobile, also offer eSIMs for temporary phone plans, which is great for those traveling abroad. T-Mobile offers plans ranging from five days (unlimited) all the way up to monthly unlimited plans, giving travelers flexibility based on how long they’ll be in the U.S.

Beyond being hassle-free, eSIM QR Codes drastically reduce setup errors and time. Instead of manually inputting long strings of numbers (like in traditional SIM setups), a quick scan automates the process. While some carriers provide alternative activation methods like app-based links, activation codes, or manual input, these approaches are less efficient in terms of the speed and simplicity of QR Codes.

How to access eSIM QR Codes

In this section, we’ll break down how to access eSIM QR Codes, special considerations by carrier and region, and what you need to do for eSIM activation on your device.

Carrier and regional considerations

Carrier adoption plays a major role in eSIM availability. In some regions, eSIM infrastructure has been slower to develop, so certain carriers or devices might not support it yet. However, in regions like North America and Europe, eSIM support is widespread, making it easier to switch carriers. 

Device-specific considerations

The process of setting up eSIM differs slightly between Android and iOS devices. Both platforms require scanning a QR Code from your carrier, but the menu paths and activation steps will vary depending on the device model and software version. 

Android devices

If you’re using a Samsung Galaxy phone or tablet, setting up an eSIM is straightforward but may differ slightly from other Android devices. First, you’ll need to contact your carrier for an eSIM QR Code. Once you receive it, go to Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager. Select Add Mobile Plan, and scan the QR Code. 

iOS devices

For Apple iPhone XS or later or a cellular-enabled iPad, getting your eSIM QR Code is simple. Request an eSIM QR Code from your carrier, navigate to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM, and scan the code to activate your eSIM. 

As an individual subscriber

If you’re an individual subscriber, the first step is to reach out to your service provider to generate and send you an eSIM QR Code. You may need to provide basic information like your account details, device’s IMEI number, or phone number to ensure accurate setup.

Once you receive your new eSIM QR Code—typically via email, text, or your provider’s app—simply navigate to your device’s settings, open the cellular options, and choose Add Cellular Plan/Add eSIM. Use your phone’s camera to scan the QR Code, which instantly downloads the required settings and connects your device to the network. 

For remote workers, eSIM QR Codes offer flexibility. If you’re in a location with poor coverage, switching carriers is as simple as scanning a new QR Code—no need for downtime or physical SIMs. These scenarios highlight the versatility of eSIM QR Codes, ensuring businesses and individuals stay connected without interruptions.

As a service provider

For service providers, generating QR Codes is incredibly simple with platforms like QR Code Generator PRO. With clever use of our API, providers can create a Static Text QR Code and include the eSIM activation information. To do this, the content of the QR Code would be set up to follow a certain format that allows the phone to recognize it as an eSIM activation code.

Providers can also use QR Codes to link to a landing page for users to input their information to activate the eSIM manually.

Once generated, these codes can be easily distributed via email, text, apps, or online portals, offering a seamless setup for customers. Some providers, like  T-Mobile, integrate QR Codes directly into their app, providing a smooth in-app experience. Others, like Verizon, distribute QR Codes via email. 

Simplify QR Code generation with QR Code Generator PRO

eSIM QR Codes make service setup incredibly easy—just a quick scan and you’re connected. Gone are the days of lengthy, confusing setups with traditional SIM cards: as long as your device is eSIM enabled, eSIM QR Codes can get the process started for you quickly and easily.

With QR Code Generator PRO, creating custom, professional QR Codes is fast and simple. Whether for personal or business use, you can design QR Codes that stand out and integrate seamlessly with your brand. Plus, the platform offers features like analytics and custom branding to ensure your codes are as effective as they are visually appealing. 

Get started with QR Code Generator PRO today to create fully customizable eSIM QR Codes in minutes!