This document provides step-by-step instructions to guide you through activating an eSIM on your new iPhone. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth transition to your new cellular service.
Prerequisites before starting:
- An active Wi-Fi connection on your new iPhone.
- Your eSIM QR code, activation code, or carrier app provided by your mobile operator.
- Your iPhone updated to the latest version of iOS (iOS 16 or newer recommended).
Method 1: Activate Using a QR Code
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
- Tap on Cellular (or Mobile Data depending on your region).
- Tap Add eSIM or Add Cellular Plan.
- Select Use QR Code.
- Position your iPhone camera over the QR code provided by your carrier until it scans.
- Tap Continue when prompted and follow the on-screen instructions to finish setting up your cellular plan labels and default lines.
Method 2: Carrier Activation / Quick Transfer
- Turn on your new iPhone and complete the initial setup process.
- If your carrier assigned an eSIM to your phone number or Apple ID, a notification reading Carrier Cellular Plan Ready to Be Installed will appear.
- Tap the notification, or go to Settings > Cellular and tap Carrier Cellular Plan Ready to Be Installed.
- Select Continue at the bottom of the screen to complete activation.
Method 3: Activation via Carrier App
- Connect to Wi-Fi and open the App Store.
- Download your mobile provider’s official application (e.g., AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, Vodafone, EE, etc.).
- Log in with your carrier account credentials.
- Navigate to the Manage SIM / eSIM section and select Activate eSIM on this device.
- Follow the on-screen prompts; the app will automatically configure the eSIM profile without requiring a QR code.
How to Verify Activation
To confirm that your eSIM is properly functioning:
- Turn off Wi-Fi in Settings.
- Check the status bar at the top of your screen to ensure signal strength bars appear alongside a mobile data indicator (5G, LTE, or 4G).
- Place a test phone call and open a webpage to confirm connectivity.
