How to Use an eSIM and SIM Card on a Galaxy Phone

Last Update date : 2026-06-24
eSIM

How to Set Up an eSIM and Nano-SIM Card on Your Samsung Galaxy Device

Learn how to activate and manage eSIM and nano-SIM cards on Samsung Galaxy devices, including setup steps, troubleshooting tips, and compatibility details.

To set up an eSIM and nano-SIM card on your Samsung Galaxy device, ensure your device supports dual SIM functionality, insert the nano-SIM correctly, and activate the eSIM using a QR code from your carrier. Follow these steps to configure both SIM options for seamless connectivity.

1. What Are Nano-SIM and eSIM Cards?

A nano-SIM card is a physical SIM card that connects your device to a mobile network for calls, texts, and data. An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital SIM card built into your device, allowing you to activate a mobile plan without a physical card.

- Dual SIM functionality lets you use two phone numbers or carriers on a single device.

- Using both a nano-SIM and eSIM simultaneously may reduce data speeds in certain areas.

2. How to Insert a Nano-SIM Card

Properly inserting the nano-SIM card ensures your device recognizes it. Follow these steps:

  1. Remove the SIM card tray using the provided ejector pin.
  2. Place the nano-SIM card on the tray with the gold-colored contact facing upward.
  3. Ensure the card fits snugly into the tray.
  4. Insert the tray back into the device until it clicks into place.

- For Galaxy S22, S23, and S24 series, align the gold contacts outward on both sides of the dual SIM tray.

- Avoid inserting a wet tray to prevent damage to your device.

3. How to Activate an eSIM

To activate an eSIM, use a QR code provided by your carrier:

  1. Open the Settings app on your device.
  2. Navigate to Connections > SIM Card Manager > Add Mobile Plan.
  3. Scan the carrier-provided QR code to activate the eSIM.

- An eSIM requires a wireless service plan and cannot be used without carrier activation.

- Only one eSIM can be active at a time on most Samsung Galaxy devices.

4. Managing SIM and eSIM Settings

Customize your SIM and eSIM preferences in the SIM Card Manager:

  1. Open Settings and go to Connections > SIM Card Manager.
  2. Activate or deactivate SIM cards as needed.
  3. Set a preferred SIM for calls, texts, or data usage.
  4. Enable auto data switching to switch networks if the preferred SIM fails.

- Some services may not be available depending on your carrier or region.

5. Supported Samsung Galaxy Devices

Dual SIM and eSIM functionality are supported on select Samsung Galaxy devices, including:

- Galaxy S22, S23, S24, and S25 series

- Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip series

- Galaxy A series (select models)

6. Related Samsung Support Topics

Nano-SIM

SIM card comparison2 SIM card comparison2

eSIM

SIM card comparison3 SIM card comparison3

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