How to install an eSIM on Android for Pixel and Samsung Galaxy.

1. Prepare before touching Add eSIM

Start with our exact-phone eSIM compatibility check. Google says Pixel 4 and later support eSIM, while earlier Pixels have carrier and regional exceptions. Samsung says availability depends on the specific device, country of origin, software and carrier. A family name such as “Galaxy S” is not enough evidence.

The phone must also accept a plan from a different provider. Check the carrier account or ask the carrier whether the device is unlocked. An Add eSIM button proves the hardware has a setup path; it does not prove a locked phone will accept an unrelated travel provider.

Finally, read when the exact package activates. Installation may happen before service validity begins, but that rule belongs to the package—not Android.

2. Install a travel eSIM on Google Pixel

1. Open Settings.
2. Tap Network & internet, then SIMs.
3. Tap Add SIM, then Set up an eSIM.
4. Scan the provider QR code or follow the provider's on-screen transfer or app flow.
5. Wait until Android confirms the profile has downloaded.
6. Open the new SIM and rename it Travel or add the destination name.

Google notes that an operator's flow can differ and that some profiles must first be activated through the operator. If you purchased through an app, use its instructions instead of guessing which network name to select.

3. Install a travel eSIM on Samsung Galaxy

1. Open Settings → Connections → SIM manager.
2. Tap Add eSIM.
3. For a QR-code purchase, tap Scan QR code and scan the code from another screen.
4. For an automatically detected carrier profile, review the provider name before downloading it.
5. Complete the prompts and restart if the phone requests it.
6. Return to SIM manager, label the new profile Travel and review the preferred SIM assignments.

Samsung's official instructions warn that screens vary by provider, software and model. Some Galaxy variants do not expose eSIM at all even when a similarly named model in another market does. Stop if the provider or profile name is not the one you purchased.

4. App installation and manual codes are provider-specific

Some providers install directly from their Android app; others supply a QR code or activation details. Saily's current Android instructions, for example, offer an in-app installation and a manual route through SIM settings when the automatic flow fails. That is a Saily process, not a universal Android feature.

Keep the receipt and installation details private. Do not post the QR code, activation code, EID, IMEI or complete order number in a forum. Use the provider's official support channel if the download fails.

5. Assign each line one clear job

Pixel exposes preferences for calls, texts and mobile data under SIM settings. Galaxy uses SIM manager and, depending on the version, Preferred SIMs. In both cases, only one line should be the intentional data line. Read our Dual SIM travel guide before keeping Home active abroad.

6. Connect and verify after landing

Many travel eSIMs connect through partner networks and require roaming on the Travel profile. Follow the purchased package instructions. Do not treat that as permission to enable roaming on Home. On some Android versions the control may not be perfectly isolated by line, so disabling Home is the conservative option when its roaming costs are unknown.

Give the phone a few minutes to register. Confirm that a simple page loads with Wi-Fi off, then check the provider app for active status and remaining data. Do this before relying on maps, rides or tickets.

7. If the profile will not install or connect

1. Confirm Wi-Fi works and restart the phone.
2. Check for Android and carrier-system updates.
3. Confirm the eSIM is visible and turned on under SIM settings.
4. Verify Travel is the selected data line.
5. Follow the package's exact roaming, APN and network-selection instructions.
6. Contact official support with the exact error and phone model.

Common questions

How do I install an eSIM on Android?

On a compatible unlocked Pixel, use Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → Add SIM → Set up an eSIM. On a compatible Galaxy, use Settings → Connections → SIM manager → Add eSIM. Then follow the provider app, QR-code or manual-installation instructions.

Can I scan the QR code from the same Android phone?

Some provider apps and Android versions can import from an image or install directly. The dependable universal method is to display the code on another device. Use the provider's documented method.

Should I turn the travel eSIM on before departure?

Only after reading the package's activation rule. Some can be installed and prepared early; others may start validity at installation or on a stated date.

Why is Add eSIM missing?

The exact model, sales region, carrier firmware or lock status may not support it. Confirm the model number with the manufacturer and carrier before buying.