How to set up eSIM | Easy-to-understand explanation for iPhone and Android

eSIM Setup Guide | Easy Explanation for iPhone and Android

eSIM is convenient for overseas travel, business trips, and travel within Japan, but many people may feel anxious about questions like, "I don't know how to set it up," "Where do I scan the QR code?" and "Are the setup procedures different for iPhone and Android?"

eSIM is a system that allows you to add a communication plan to your smartphone without swapping a physical SIM card. Generally, you can start using it by scanning the QR code you receive after purchase and setting up mobile data communication and data roaming.

In this article, we will explain how to set up eSIM separately for iPhone and Android. We will introduce pre-setup checks, how to scan the QR code, the flow until communication starts, points to note during setup, and troubleshooting methods for when you cannot connect, all in an easy-to-understand manner for first-time users.

Before purchasing, please check if your intended smartphone is compatible with eSIM on the list of eSIM-compatible devices.

Things to Check Before Setting Up eSIM

Before starting the eSIM setup, let's check the following items.

• Is your smartphone compatible with eSIM?
• Is the SIM lock removed?
• Is there a stable Wi-Fi environment?
• Have you received the QR code after purchase?
• Do you have the smartphone you will be setting up on hand?
• Do the travel destination and usage period match the purchased plan?

Check if Your Device is eSIM-Compatible

Not all smartphones are compatible with eSIM. Even with the same model name, there may be cases where eSIM cannot be used depending on the country of sale, carrier, or model number.

Before purchasing, please check the device's settings screen, the manufacturer's official information, or the list of eSIM-compatible devices.

Check the SIM Lock Status

Devices purchased from carriers may have a SIM lock set. If the SIM lock is not removed, you may not be able to use the overseas travel eSIM.

Check the SIM lock status on your device's settings screen or on the My Page of your carrier.

Prepare a Stable Wi-Fi Environment

An internet connection is required for downloading and installing eSIM. If you are in an unstable communication area, errors may occur during the setup process.

It is recommended to set it up in a stable Wi-Fi environment, such as at home before departure.

Display the QR Code on a Different Screen

If you are displaying the QR code on the same smartphone, the camera on that device will not be able to scan the QR code.

Display the QR code on a computer, tablet, or another smartphone, or print it out on paper to scan. Depending on the device, you may also be able to scan the QR code from a saved image.

Basic Flow of eSIM Setup

The menu names and screen displays differ between iPhone and Android, but the basic flow of the setup is common.

1. Check if your device is eSIM-compatible
2. Purchase the eSIM you will use
3. Receive the QR code via email, etc.
4. Add eSIM from the smartphone's settings screen
5. Scan the QR code
6. Select eSIM for mobile data communication
7. Turn on data roaming if necessary
8. Connect to the local network and check communication

The time it takes to set up varies depending on the device and communication environment, but it usually takes about a few minutes to 10 minutes.

You can also check the detailed basic procedures on the eSIM Setup Guide.

How to Set Up eSIM on iPhone

On iPhone, you add eSIM from the "Cellular" section of the Settings app. Depending on the iOS version, the menu may be displayed as "Add eSIM" or "Add Cellular Plan."

Step 1: Open the Settings App

From the iPhone home screen, open "Settings" and select "Cellular."

Step 2: Add eSIM

Select "Add eSIM" or "Add Cellular Plan."

From the displayed menu, choose "Use QR Code."

Step 3: Scan the QR Code

Use the iPhone camera to scan the QR code you received after purchase.

Once the QR code is scanned, the eSIM addition screen will appear. Follow the on-screen instructions and select "Continue" or "Add Cellular Plan."

Step 4: Set the Line Name

If you are using multiple SIMs, it is convenient to set a clear name for the added eSIM, such as "Travel," "Overseas eSIM," or "Japan eSIM."

To avoid confusion between the main line and the travel eSIM, it is also recommended to include the name of the destination country.

Step 5: Set Up Mobile Data Communication

Open "Settings" → "Cellular" → "Mobile Data," and select the purchased eSIM.

If the main line used in Japan is still selected, you may incur overseas roaming charges. Please set the travel eSIM for data communication while abroad.

Step 6: Turn On Data Roaming

Open "Settings" → "Cellular," select the added eSIM, and turn on "Data Roaming."

For overseas travel eSIM, it is often necessary to turn on data roaming to use the local partner network.

Step 7: Check Mobile Data Communication Switching

If "Allow Switching Mobile Data" is turned on, it may switch to the main line depending on the signal conditions.

If you want to avoid unintended overseas roaming, please turn off this setting.

Step 8: Check if Communication Works

After arriving at your destination, turn on the eSIM line and check if you can access web pages or map apps with Wi-Fi turned off.

If you cannot connect, try turning airplane mode on and then off, or restart your iPhone.

How to Set Up eSIM on Android

On Android, the menu names differ depending on the manufacturer and OS version, such as Google Pixel, Samsung Galaxy, AQUOS, and Xperia.

Basically, you add eSIM from the network or SIM-related menu within "Settings."

Step 1: Open the Settings Screen

Open the "Settings" on your smartphone.

Depending on the model, select one of the following menus:

• "Network & Internet"
• "Connections"
• "SIM"
• "SIM Manager"
• "Mobile Networks"

Step 2: Add eSIM

Select "Add SIM," "Add eSIM," or "Add Mobile Plan."

On Google Pixel, it may display "Add SIM," while on Samsung Galaxy, it may show "Add eSIM" from "SIM Manager."

Step 3: Scan the QR Code

Select "Use QR Code" or a similar option and scan the QR code you received after purchase.

Once the QR code is recognized, the eSIM download screen will appear. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the addition.

Step 4: Turn On the eSIM Line

Turn on the switch for the added eSIM.

If multiple SIMs are registered, it is helpful to give the travel eSIM a clear name to prevent mistakes during setup.

Step 5: Select eSIM for Mobile Data Communication

In the settings for "Mobile Data," "Preferred SIM," or "Data Communication," select the travel eSIM.

Even if you keep the main line in Japan for calls and SMS, please specify the travel eSIM for data communication.

Step 6: Turn On Data Roaming

Open the settings for the added eSIM and turn on "Roaming" or "Data Roaming."

If you cannot find the menu, it may be easier to search for "Roaming" in the search bar at the top of the settings screen.

Step 7: Check APN Settings

On Android, the APN may not be automatically set depending on the plan.

If the APN information is provided in the post-purchase instructions, please enter the specified information from the "Access Point Name" or "APN" screen.

Step 8: Check if Communication Works

Turn off Wi-Fi and open a browser or map app to check data communication.

If you cannot connect, check the airplane mode toggle, restart the device, verify APN settings, and check network selection.

Differences in eSIM Setup Methods Between iPhone and Android

While the screen displays differ between iPhone and Android, the basic flow of "adding eSIM," "selecting for mobile data," and "setting data roaming" is the same.

When is the Best Time to Set Up eSIM?

In general, it is recommended to complete the eSIM installation before departure in a stable Wi-Fi environment.

If you try to set it up after arriving overseas, you may encounter issues such as being unable to connect to the airport Wi-Fi, not being able to display the QR code, or not being able to check the setup method.

However, the timing for starting to use eSIM varies by product.

• Plans that start the usage period from the time of eSIM installation
• Plans that start the usage period from the time of connection to the local network
• Plans that become effective from a specified start date

Please check the usage start conditions on the product page or in the post-purchase instructions before purchasing or setting up.

Points to Note During eSIM Setup

QR Codes May Not Be Reusable

The eSIM QR code may only be usable once. If you delete the eSIM after installation, you may not be able to reconfigure it with the same QR code.

Even if you cannot connect, do not delete the eSIM immediately; first, check the setup details.

Do Not Mistake the Device for Setup

The eSIM will be added to the device that scanned the QR code. If you plan to set it up on another smartphone, be careful not to mistake the device you are scanning with.

Be Cautious of Overseas Communication with the Main Line in Japan

On dual SIM devices, you can register both the main line in Japan and the overseas travel eSIM simultaneously.

However, if the main line in Japan is selected for mobile data communication, you may incur overseas roaming charges. Please select the travel eSIM for data communication.

Do Not Delete eSIM While Traveling

Even if you encounter connection troubles, do not delete the eSIM while traveling. You may not be able to reinstall it.

Check Data Roaming

For overseas travel eSIM, you may not be able to communicate unless data roaming is turned on.

Please turn on data roaming for the added travel eSIM, not the main line in Japan.

What to Do If eSIM Cannot Connect

If you cannot connect after setting up eSIM, please check the following items in order.

1. Turn off Wi-Fi and check mobile communication
2. Check if the eSIM line is turned on
3. Check if eSIM is selected for mobile data communication
4. Turn on data roaming
5. Toggle airplane mode on and off
6. Restart your smartphone
7. Check APN settings
8. Set network selection to automatic
9. Check the usage start date and validity period
10. Check if you have exhausted your data allowance

Check if the eSIM Line is On

Simply installing the eSIM may leave the line turned off. Please select the added eSIM in the settings screen and check if the line is enabled.

Check the Mobile Data Communication Line

If you are using multiple SIMs, check if the travel eSIM is selected for mobile data communication.

Check APN Settings

If the post-purchase instructions include APN information, please verify that there are no mistakes in the input.

Especially on Android, you may need to manually enter the APN name, APN, username, password, etc.

Contact Support Without Deleting eSIM

If the issue persists after checking the settings, please contact support without deleting the eSIM.

When inquiring, it may be helpful to prepare the following information to convey your situation more easily.

• Order number
• Name of the device you are using
• OS version
• Current location or country of use
• Screenshot of the eSIM settings screen
• Mobile data communication settings screen
• Data roaming settings screen
• APN settings screen
• Error messages displayed

For setup support, please check the eSIM Setup Support Page.

Frequently Asked Questions About eSIM Setup

How long does it take to set up eSIM?

It varies depending on the communication environment and device, but it usually takes about a few minutes to 10 minutes to complete. Setting it up in a stable Wi-Fi environment makes it smoother.

Can the QR code be used multiple times?

The number of times it can be used varies by product. Many QR codes can only be used once, so please be careful not to delete the eSIM after setup.

Can I set up eSIM without Wi-Fi?

An internet connection, such as Wi-Fi or mobile data, is required to download eSIM. It is recommended to set it up before departure, as you may not be able to secure a communication environment after arriving overseas.

Can I register multiple eSIMs on the same smartphone?

The number of compatible eSIM registrations and simultaneous usage varies by model. Even if you can save multiple eSIMs, the number of lines that can be active simultaneously may be limited.

Are the setup methods different for Android and iPhone?

While the menu names and screen displays differ, the basic flow of scanning the QR code to add eSIM and setting mobile data communication and data roaming is the same.

What happens if I accidentally delete eSIM?

You may not be able to reinstall it with the same QR code. If you accidentally delete it, please check with support to see if a new QR code can be issued.

Why does it say "Out of Service" even though I set up eSIM?

Before arriving at your destination, you may see "Out of Service" because you cannot connect to the corresponding local network. Please check the line, data roaming, and network selection after arriving at your destination.

Can I use a phone number or SMS?

With a data-only eSIM, you cannot use regular phone numbers for calls or SMS. However, you can use data communication-based calling and messaging apps like LINE or WhatsApp.

If you need a phone number or SMS, please check the details of the eSIM with phone number.

eSIM is Recommended for Overseas Travel

eSIM is a convenient communication method that does not require swapping physical SIM cards and can be purchased and set up online.

• No need to swap SIM cards
• Can be purchased online
• Can be set up with a QR code
• No need to pick up or return at the airport
• Can be prepared before departure
• Easy to start communication immediately upon arrival

If you are looking for a communication plan to use while traveling in Japan, please check the Japan eSIM products and pricing plans.

Conclusion | Complete eSIM Setup Before Traveling

eSIM can be added by scanning the QR code from the settings screen on both iPhone and Android.

Before setup, please check the following items.

• Is your smartphone compatible with eSIM?
• Is the SIM lock removed?
• Is there a stable Wi-Fi environment?
• Have you received the QR code?
• Have you confirmed the usage start conditions?

After setup, turn on the travel eSIM line, select eSIM for mobile data communication, and turn on data roaming if necessary.

If you cannot connect, do not delete the eSIM immediately; check the line settings, data roaming, APN, airplane mode, and restart the device in order.

For detailed setup procedures, please refer to the eSIM Setup Guide.