How to Set Up and Use eSIM on Samsung Galaxy Devices

Learn how to set up eSIM on Samsung Galaxy devices using Simple Setup, QR codes, or manual activation. Find supported carriers, transfer eSIM from old devices, and check device compatibility.

Samsung Galaxy devices support eSIM (embedded SIM), a digital SIM that eliminates the need for a physical SIM card. eSIM allows you to activate mobile data, make calls, and send messages without inserting a physical SIM. However, eSIM availability depends on your region, carrier, and device model. Follow these steps to set up and manage eSIM on your Samsung Galaxy phone or tablet.

1. What Is eSIM and How Does It Work?

eSIM (embedded SIM) is a built-in digital SIM card that enables you to connect to mobile networks without a physical SIM. Unlike traditional SIM cards, eSIMs can be activated remotely through a QR code, activation code, or carrier-provided Simple Setup. Once activated, eSIM works just like a physical SIM, supporting voice calls, SMS, and mobile data.

- eSIM is ideal for users who frequently switch carriers or travel internationally.

- eSIM allows dual-SIM functionality on compatible devices without needing a second physical SIM slot.

- eSIM setup is often faster and more convenient than inserting a physical SIM card.

2. How to Add eSIM to Your Samsung Galaxy Device

There are three primary methods to add an eSIM to your Samsung Galaxy device:

2.1. Use eSIM Simple Setup

eSIM Simple Setup allows your carrier to send an eSIM directly to your device without requiring a QR code or activation code. This method is supported by select carriers in specific regions.

Supported Samsung Galaxy Devices:

- Galaxy S24, S25, S26 series

- Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip series

- Galaxy A series (select models)

Network carriers that support eSIM Simple Setup include:

- Asia-Pacific: Telstra (Australia), Jio (India), KDDI (Japan), KT (Korea), Spark (New Zealand)

- Europe: A1 (Austria), Proximus (Belgium), Telia (Finland), Telekom (Germany)

- North America: AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon (USA), Bell, Rogers (Canada)

2.2. Scan a QR Code

Most carriers provide a QR code for eSIM activation. Follow these steps:

1. Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager.
2. Tap Add eSIM and select Scan QR Code.
3. Scan the QR code provided by your carrier.
4. Your eSIM will download and activate automatically.

2.3. Enter Activation Code Manually

If your carrier provides an activation code instead of a QR code, follow these steps:

1. Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager.
2. Tap Add eSIM, select Scan QR Code, then choose Enter Activation Code.
3. Enter the code provided by your carrier.
4. Your eSIM will download and activate automatically.

3. How to Transfer eSIM to a New Samsung Galaxy Device

You can transfer your eSIM from an old device to a new Samsung Galaxy device using eSIM Instant Transfer. This method works for Android-to-Android and iOS-to-Galaxy transfers.

3.1. Transfer eSIM from an Android Device

1. On your new device, go to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager > Add eSIM.
2. Select Transfer SIM from Galaxy/Android Phone.
3. On your old device, tap Transfer when prompted.
4. Enter the 6-digit verification code displayed on your new device.
5. Select a phone number from the list and tap Transfer.
6. Confirm the transfer on your old device.
7. Your eSIM will be transferred and activated on your new device.

Supported carriers for Android-to-Android eSIM transfer include:

- Jio (India), NTT Docomo (Japan), KT (Korea), T-Mobile (USA)

3.2. Transfer eSIM from an iOS Device

To transfer eSIM from an iPhone to a Samsung Galaxy device:

1. On your new Galaxy device, go to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager > Add eSIM.
2. Select Transfer SIM from iPhone.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to generate a QR code.
4. Scan the QR code from your iPhone or enter the passcode if scanning fails.
5. Select a phone number and tap Continue on your iPhone.
6. Confirm the transfer and wait for activation.

Supported carriers for iOS-to-Galaxy eSIM transfer include:

- AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon (USA), KDDI (Japan), EE (UK)

4. Convert Physical SIM to eSIM

If you already have a physical SIM card, you can convert it to eSIM on compatible devices:

1. Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager.
2. Select the SIM card you want to convert.
3. Tap Convert to eSIM and confirm the action.
4. Your SIM profile will be converted to eSIM.

5. Supported Samsung Galaxy Devices for eSIM

The following Samsung Galaxy devices support eSIM functionality:

- Galaxy S26, S25, S24, S23, S22, S21, S20 series

- Galaxy Z Fold7, Z Flip7, Z Fold6, Z Flip6, Z Fold5, Z Flip5, and earlier models

- Galaxy A series (A56, A36, A55, A35, A54 – region-specific)

- Galaxy Tab S11, S10, S9, S8, and Tab Active5 series

Note: eSIM support varies by region. Check your device's specifications for confirmation.

6. Additional Things to Check

- Ensure your device is unlocked for eSIM transfer.

- Both devices must have updated software for eSIM transfer.

- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth must be enabled during eSIM transfer.

- Contact your carrier if eSIM activation fails or if your carrier is not listed.

Related Samsung Support Topics

- How to Enable Dual SIM on Samsung Galaxy Devices

- Troubleshooting eSIM Issues on Samsung Galaxy Phones

- How to Switch Between SIM Cards on Samsung Galaxy Devices