Quick Answer: On a Samsung Galaxy, you can usually go to Settings → Connections → SIM manager → Add eSIM and scan your provider's QR code. On a Google Pixel, go to Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → Add SIM → Set up an eSIM. After installation, you must set the travel eSIM as your mobile data line, turn on Data Roaming as instructed by the product, and ensure your original SIM card won't automatically use expensive overseas data. Menu names can vary across different Android brands, regional models, and software versions.
"Android" is not a single phone model, and not all brands use the exact same settings interface.
Samsung Galaxy phones generally use One UI, while Google Pixel phones use Google's stock Android interface. Brands like Motorola, Xiaomi, OPPO, vivo, and Honor may use entirely different menu names.
Therefore, this article will focus on the two most common installation flows:
- Samsung Galaxy
- Google Pixel
If you use another Android phone, you can still refer to the general troubleshooting steps at the end, but you should ultimately rely on your manufacturer's official documentation and your device's actual interface.
What to Prepare Before Installation
Before starting, please confirm the following:
1. Your Phone Actually Supports eSIM
On Samsung Galaxy, check if this path exists:
Settings → Connections → SIM manager → Add eSIM
On Google Pixel, check if this path exists:
Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → Add SIM → Set up an eSIM
If you cannot find the corresponding option, read this first: How to Check If Your Phone Supports eSIM
Different regional versions of the same product series might use different SIM configurations. Do not assume your phone supports it just because it's in the "Galaxy S series" or "Pixel series."
2. Your Phone Is Unlocked from Your Carrier
Supporting eSIM hardware does not guarantee your phone can add mobile plans from other providers.
If your phone was purchased through a carrier contract, an installment plan, or a special promotion, it might still be locked to your original network. Check your purchase agreement or contact your original carrier to confirm.
Do not confuse a SIM PIN lock with a carrier network lock:
- ** SIM PIN Lock:** Protects a specific SIM card with a password.
- ** Carrier Network Lock:** Restricts the phone from using SIMs or eSIMs from other telecommunications companies.
3. You Have the Correct Installation Details
Travel eSIM providers usually give you:
- A QR code
- An Activation Code
- An SM-DP+ Address
- A direct installation link
- An in-app installation flow
- APN details, if required by the product
Use only the details associated with your specific order. Do not scan QR codes belonging to other people, and do not publicly upload your own QR code to forums or social media.
4. Your Phone Is Connected to Stable Wi-Fi
Android phones must connect to the internet to download the eSIM profile.
We recommend installing in an environment with:
- Stable Wi-Fi
- Sufficient battery life
- Enough time to complete the setup
- Access to your order email
Do not wait until you are boarding your flight, using unstable airport Wi-Fi, or arriving with no internet access before trying to download it.
5. You Have Read the Plan's Activation Rules
Before starting, confirm:
- How many days in advance you can install it.
- Whether the plan's validity period starts upon purchase, installation, manual activation, or first connection to the network.
- Whether you must wait until you arrive at your destination to turn it on.
- Whether Data Roaming is required.
- Whether you need a manual APN.
- Whether the QR code can only be installed once.
Installing an eSIM does not always mean the plan's timer has started, but the rules can differ drastically between products.
Choose a Caylet eSIM for Your Destination
Part 1: Installing an eSIM on Samsung Galaxy
Samsung officially provides three common ways to add an eSIM:
- Easy setup
- Scanning a QR code
- Manually entering an activation code
For travel eSIM users, the most common method is scanning a QR code.
Samsung Method 1: Scan a QR Code
Step 1: Open the SIM Manager
Go to:
Settings → Connections → SIM manager
Depending on your system version or language, it might also be called:
SIM card manager
Step 2: Add eSIM
Tap:
Add eSIM
Your phone might first search for plans directly assigned by a carrier. Once it finishes searching, select:
Scan QR code
On some One UI versions, this might read:
Scan QR code from service provider
Step 3: Scan the QR Code from Your Order
Use your Galaxy's camera to scan the QR code displayed on another screen.
You can display the QR code on a:
- Computer
- Tablet
- Another smartphone
- Safely stored printed document
When scanning, make sure:
- The QR code is fully visible.
- Screen brightness is high enough.
- There is no glare.
- You haven't zoomed in too much.
- It is definitely the code from your current order.
Step 4: Download and Add the Plan
Once your Galaxy recognizes the plan, follow the on-screen prompts and tap:
Add
Download
Confirm
(The exact button names may vary based on your One UI version.)
Wait for the profile to download. During this process, do not:
- Turn off Wi-Fi.
- Force close the Settings app.
- Restart your phone.
- Scan the QR code a second time.
- Try to add the eSIM to another device simultaneously.
Once installation is complete, the new eSIM will appear in your "SIM manager."
Samsung Method 2: The QR Code Is on the Same Galaxy
If both your order email and the QR code are on the Galaxy phone where you want to install the eSIM, you have a few options.
Option A: Use Another Screen
This is the most reliable method. Open the order on a computer, tablet, or another phone, and scan it with your Galaxy.
Option B: Select the QR Code from Your Gallery
Some versions of One UI allow you to select an image from your Gallery on the QR code scanning screen.
The process usually looks like this:
Settings → Connections → SIM manager → Add eSIM → Scan QR code
Then, tap the Gallery icon and select the screenshot of your saved QR code.
Only use this method if your phone explicitly provides the Gallery option. Not all models and software versions support it.
Option C: Enter the Activation Code Manually
If your provider included manual details, use the method in the next section.
Do not upload the QR code to a public online decoder or send it to a stranger to convert it for you.
Samsung Method 3: Manually Enter the Activation Code
The standard path on Samsung devices is currently:
Settings → Connections → SIM manager → Add eSIM → Scan QR code → Enter activation code
Enter the activation code provided by your provider and follow the prompts to download it.
Different products might provide:
- A single, complete activation code.
- An SM-DP+ Address and an Activation Code separately.
- Additional confirmation data.
Copy the information exactly. Do not:
- Add extra spaces.
- Delete symbols.
- Merge different fields.
- Use activation details from a different product.
- Guess missing information.
If you don't see an "Enter activation code" option, first verify:
- If your One UI is updated.
- If your phone actually supports eSIM.
- If your regional version provides this feature.
- If the provider can give you a compatible QR code instead.
Samsung Method 4: Easy Setup
Some carriers can push an eSIM directly to your Galaxy device.
Go to:
Settings → Connections → SIM manager → Add eSIM
Your phone might automatically search for available downloads.
Since travel eSIMs typically rely on QR codes or manual details, if the search finds nothing, it doesn't mean your order is invalid. Proceed with the installation method provided in your Caylet order.
Naming Your eSIM on Samsung
After installation, we highly recommend changing the name of your travel eSIM to something easily recognizable, such as:
Caylet eSIM
Japan Travel
Asia Data
US Data
Travel eSIM
Go to:
Settings → Connections → SIM manager
Tap the newly installed eSIM to change its name or icon.
Use different names for different lines to avoid labeling both your original SIM and your travel eSIM as "Primary."
How to Select Mobile Data on Samsung?
Go to:
Settings → Connections → SIM manager
Depending on your model and regional version, you might see:
Preferred SIMs → Mobile data
Or simply:
Primary SIM
Select the newly installed travel eSIM as your mobile data source.
Samsung's dual SIM interface varies by:
- One UI version
- Device model
- Sales region
- Carrier software version
Some versions let you independently assign calls, messages, and mobile data; others only let you select one "Primary SIM." The most important thing is to ensure that your Mobile Data is being supplied by the travel eSIM, not your original SIM card.
👉 Related Reading: To learn how Dual SIM settings affect hotspot sharing, voice calls, and SMS on Android, see Can a Travel eSIM Use Hotspot, Calls, and SMS? Complete Feature Guide
Should I Enable Data Switching on Samsung?
Some Galaxy models offer automatic data switching or backup calling features, labeled as:
Data switching
Data switching and backup calling
Auto data switching
If your goal is to avoid accidental overseas roaming charges on your original SIM card, you should generally turn off this automatic switching feature.
Because behavior varies between regional versions, always verify the following after turning it off:
- Set the travel eSIM as your mobile data line.
- Turn off data roaming for your original SIM card.
- Temporarily turn off Wi-Fi.
- Check that the status bar shows data coming from the travel eSIM.
- If necessary, double-check your current selection in the "SIM manager."
How to Turn On Data Roaming on Samsung?
The common path is:
Settings → Connections → Mobile networks → Data roaming
On some dual SIM Galaxies, you must first select the corresponding SIM card.
Make sure that:
- Data roaming is turned ON for your travel eSIM, as required by the product.
- Data roaming is kept OFF for your original SIM card.
- Your primary mobile data line is set to the travel eSIM.
If the interface only has one global "Data roaming" toggle, make sure you have already switched your primary data SIM to the travel eSIM before turning it on.
Do I Need to Configure an APN on Samsung?
Most products fetch the APN automatically and require no manual modification.
If your Caylet order explicitly provides an APN, try going to:
Settings → Connections → Mobile networks → Access Point Names
Select the settings for your travel eSIM and enter the details as instructed.
Important rules:
- If you didn't receive APN instructions, do not add one.
- Do not copy APNs from other eSIM brands.
- Do not modify your original SIM card's APN.
- Do not randomly fill in username, password, MCC, or MNC fields.
- After creating a new APN, make sure you select it, or it won't take effect.
If "Access Point Names" is grayed out or cannot be saved, it may be due to carrier settings or system restrictions. Do not attempt to bypass this by modifying the CSC, rooting the phone, or using unofficial tools. Contact your provider or official support instead.
Part 2: Installing an eSIM on Google Pixel
The current official path on Google Pixel is:
Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → Add SIM → Set up an eSIM
Button names may vary slightly depending on your Android version and region.
Pixel Method 1: Scan a QR Code from Settings
Step 1: Go to Add SIM
Open:
Settings → Network & internet → SIMs
Tap:
Add SIM
Then select:
Set up an eSIM
Step 2: Prepare to Scan
The Pixel might first search for plans assigned by your carrier. If it doesn't find one automatically, choose to use a QR code or scan a code provided by your carrier.
Step 3: Scan the QR Code
Point your Pixel's camera at the QR code displayed on another device. Make sure:
- The QR code is fully visible.
- The image is clear.
- It is not obstructed.
- It is the code for this specific order.
- Your phone remains connected to Wi-Fi.
Step 4: Download the eSIM
Follow the on-screen instructions to confirm the download. The Pixel might display:
Download
Set up
Activate
(Exact wording depends on your Android version.)
Once finished, the new eSIM will appear in:
Settings → Network & internet → SIMs
Pixel Method 2: Add During Initial Setup
If your Pixel is a new phone or was just factory reset, the initial setup flow might show:
Download a SIM
Tap it and follow the instructions. For a phone you are already using, adding it directly from "Settings" is usually simpler.
Pixel Method 3: The QR Code Is on the Same Phone
If the QR code is displayed on the same Pixel:
- Show the QR code on a computer, tablet, or another phone.
- Check if your order provides a direct installation link.
- Use the manual details provided by the supplier.
- Check if the scanning page allows you to select an image from your gallery.
Since not all Pixels and Android versions support reading a QR code directly from the gallery, using a second screen is generally the most reliable method.
Do not treat an eSIM QR code like a normal website QR code, and do not use generic third-party apps or websites to decode it.
Can I Manually Enter Details on a Pixel?
If the scanning page offers a "Need help?" or manual entry option, you can enter the activation code as provided.
The exact interface on a Google Pixel varies based on:
- Android version
- Carrier
- Setup flow
- Regional version
If the system only offers a QR code scanner and you only have manual details, contact your provider to see if they can issue a compatible QR code. Do not try to piece together the activation string yourself.
Naming Your eSIM on Pixel
Go to:
Settings → Network & internet → SIMs
Select the new eSIM, then edit the SIM name.
We recommend:
Caylet eSIM
Travel Data
Japan eSIM
Asia eSIM
Clear naming reduces the risk of selecting the wrong line in a dual SIM setup.
How to Switch Mobile Data to the Travel eSIM on Pixel?
Go to:
Settings → Network & internet → SIMs
First, verify that:
Mobile data
Is toggled on.
Then, under "Your primary SIM" or a similar section, tap:
Mobile data
And select the travel eSIM.
A Pixel can only have one default mobile data SIM at a time. Your original SIM card can continue handling calls and messages, but any overseas fees for those services will be determined by your home carrier.
Should I Turn On "Auto data switching" on Pixel?
The Pixel dual SIM settings might include:
Auto data switching
If enabled, the phone may switch to the other SIM if the primary data SIM loses connection.
If you want to avoid your original SIM card using mobile data overseas, we generally recommend turning this off:
Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → Auto data switching
You should also confirm:
- The travel eSIM is the default mobile data SIM.
- Roaming for the original SIM is turned off.
- You can temporarily disable the original number if it's not needed.
How to Turn On Data Roaming on Pixel?
Go to:
Settings → Network & internet → SIMs
Select the travel eSIM, then turn on:
Roaming
Depending on your Android version, it might be called:
Data roaming
Roaming services
Ensure you are modifying the travel eSIM and not your original SIM card.
Most travel eSIMs require data roaming to access the internet via partner carriers at your destination, but always refer to your specific product instructions.
Do I Need to Configure an APN on Pixel?
If your order requires a manual APN, go to:
Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → [Select travel eSIM] → Access Point Names
Create or select the APN required by the product.
If the APN fields are grayed out, lack an add button, or cannot be saved, it is likely due to a carrier settings restriction. Do not repeatedly modify the APN of other SIMs; contact customer support instead.
If you weren't given APN details, do not arbitrarily enter "internet" or other generic values. Different products use different APNs.
Part 3: What to Do When You Arrive at Your Destination
Whether you are using a Samsung Galaxy or a Google Pixel, follow these steps once you arrive.
Step 1: Turn On the Travel eSIM
Confirm the new eSIM is enabled in your SIM management page.
Samsung:
Settings → Connections → SIM manager
Pixel:
Settings → Network & internet → SIMs
Step 2: Set as the Mobile Data Line
Confirm mobile data is being provided by the travel eSIM.
Do not assume it's fully set up just because the eSIM is turned on. A dual SIM phone might still be using your original SIM card for the internet.
Step 3: Turn On Data Roaming for the Travel eSIM
Turn it on as required by the product, and keep data roaming OFF for your original SIM card.
Step 4: Wait for the Phone to Register on the Network
Your phone may take anywhere from a few seconds to a few minutes to connect to a partner carrier.
Try the following:
- Wait two to three minutes.
- Turn on Airplane Mode for about ten seconds, then turn it off.
- Restart your phone.
- Move outdoors or to an area with better reception.
- Check if the status bar displays 4G, LTE, or 5G.
Step 5: Turn Off Wi-Fi and Test
Use a browser to open a webpage, or test:
- Maps
- Instant messaging
- Caylet's data usage checking tools
During the initial test, do not stream high-definition video or download large files. If your connection speed is unusually slow, refer to our eSIM Slow Data Troubleshooting Guide.
Recommended Dual SIM Setup
| Feature | Original SIM Card | Travel eSIM |
|---|---|---|
| Mobile Data | Do Not Use | Use |
| Data Roaming | Usually OFF | Turn ON (as required) |
| Calls | Keep active if needed | Data-only plans usually don't support |
| SMS | Keep active if needed | Data-only plans usually don't support |
| Auto Data Switching | Avoid switching to this line | Turn off automatic switching based on device settings |
| Hotspot | Do not use original data | Use if plan supports it |
If you leave your original SIM card active, answering calls, making calls, sending SMS texts, or using voicemail may still incur charges.
👉 Related Reading: How Much Data Do I Need? eSIM Data Usage & Plan Comparison Guide
Part 4: What If I Can't Connect After Installation?
Do not delete the eSIM yet.
Check the following in order.
1. Confirm You Are in the Coverage Area
Some travel eSIMs will not connect to any network while you are still in your home country. If it installs successfully but shows "No Service," it doesn't necessarily mean the installation failed.
2. Confirm the eSIM Is Turned On
Go to your SIM management page and make sure the travel eSIM hasn't been disabled.
3. Confirm the Mobile Data Line
Check that your current mobile data source is selected as the travel eSIM.
4. Confirm Data Roaming
Most travel eSIMs require data roaming to be turned on.
5. Check the APN
Only enter an APN if your order provides one. Ensure there are no extra spaces and the correct APN is selected.
6. Turn Off Wi-Fi and Test Again
Sometimes your phone is connected to a Wi-Fi network without internet access, making it look like the eSIM isn't working.
7. Toggle Airplane Mode
Turn it on for about ten seconds, then turn it off to force the phone to search for networks again.
8. Restart Your Phone
Samsung's official documentation also recommends restarting the device after adding an eSIM to apply the settings.
9. Select the Network Manually
If your order lists supported local carriers, you can turn off automatic network selection in your mobile network settings and try to manually select a partner network. Do not randomly select carriers not listed by the product.
10. Update Your System
Check for available updates for One UI, Android, Google Play system updates, and carrier settings.
11. Record Error Details
When contacting customer support, provide:
- Your order number
- Phone brand and full model number
- Region of purchase
- System version
- Current country or region
- Screenshot of your eSIM status
- Screenshot of your mobile data and roaming settings
- Full error message
- The name of the carrier your phone is currently connected to
Please obscure:
- IMEI
- EID
- Phone number
- QR code
- Activation code
- Serial number
- Other private information
Why Shouldn't I Delete the eSIM Arbitrarily?
Deleting an eSIM is not the same as temporarily turning it off.
Many travel eSIM QR codes can only be installed a limited number of times, sometimes only once. If you delete it:
- The original QR code may not scan again.
- You cannot recover any unused data on the plan.
- Customer support may have to issue a replacement.
- You might not be eligible for a refund.
- You may not be able to reinstall it on another phone.
When facing issues, prioritize:
- Toggling the line off and on.
- Toggling Airplane Mode.
- Restarting your device.
- Checking data line settings.
- Checking roaming and APN settings.
- Contacting customer support.
Do not treat deleting an eSIM like reinstalling a regular app. If you have already deleted it, check out our eSIM Deletion Recovery Guide.
Upgrading to a New Phone?
If you are getting a new phone, some Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel devices offer a nearby device transfer option, but travel eSIMs have specific limitations. For more details, see Can You Transfer an eSIM to a New Phone?.
What's the Difference Between Installation, Activation, and Starting the Timer?
👉 Deep Dive: When Should You Install and Activate a Travel eSIM?
The most common misunderstanding is treating "installing the eSIM" and "starting the timer" as the same thing.
** Installation:** Downloading the eSIM profile to your phone. ** Activation:** Making the profile or plan available for use. ** Starting the Timer:** The validity period officially begins counting down.
Depending on the product, the timer might start when:
- The purchase is completed.
- The profile is downloaded.
- You manually activate it.
- You first connect to a destination network.
- A specific date arrives.
- The provider's system confirms activation.
Therefore, you cannot assume your plan days have started counting down just because Samsung displays "Activated." Always refer to the Caylet product page and your order details for the final word.
What to Do After Your Trip?
When you return home, you can:
- Set your original SIM card back as your mobile data line.
- Check your original SIM card's roaming settings.
- Turn off the travel eSIM you are no longer using.
- Confirm the plan has ended.
- Delete the profile only when you are certain you no longer need it.
Samsung:
Settings → Connections → SIM manager
Pixel:
Settings → Network & internet → SIMs
If you plan to use the same plan or profile in the future, do not delete it immediately just because you are temporarily not using it.
How to Install on Other Android Phones?
Menus on other brands might use these names:
Settings → Mobile network → eSIM
Settings → SIM cards & mobile networks → Add eSIM
Settings → Mobile network → SIM management
Settings → Network & internet → SIMs
Settings → Dual SIM & mobile network
You can type the following into your settings search bar:
eSIM
Add SIM
Download SIM
SIM management
Mobile plan
QR code
If you cannot find it:
- Confirm if your exact model supports it.
- Check the official specs for the region where the phone was sold.
- Update your system.
- Confirm the phone has no network lock.
- Contact the manufacturer or Caylet customer support.
Do not assume all Androids will have the exact same buttons as the Samsung or Pixel screenshots.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal for my Samsung to keep searching for plans after scanning the QR code?
Your phone might first search for plans directly assigned by your carrier. Wait for it to finish, then select "Scan QR code." If it's unresponsive for a long time, check your Wi-Fi, system version, and eSIM compatibility.
What if I can't find "Add eSIM" on my Galaxy?
This is likely due to the phone model, regional version, carrier version, or an unsupported system. Check the exact model number, not just the series name.
What if I can't find "Set up an eSIM" on my Pixel?
Confirm you are following the path "Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → Add SIM." If it's still missing, check your Android version, exact model number, and network lock status.
How do I scan the QR code if it's on the same Android phone?
The most reliable way is to display the QR code on a computer, tablet, or another phone. Some Galaxy models can select it from the Gallery, but not all devices have this feature.
Do I have to turn on data roaming?
Most travel eSIMs require it, but you should check the product description. Turn it on for the travel eSIM, and keep it off for your original SIM card.
Why is my Android still using my original SIM card's data after installing the eSIM?
Installing the eSIM doesn't automatically set it as the active data line. You must manually select the travel eSIM as your mobile data SIM in your SIM manager and turn off automatic data switching.
Can I keep my original SIM card to receive SMS?
Usually, yes. The original SIM can handle calls and SMS, while the travel eSIM handles data. However, your home carrier may still charge you for receiving calls, texts, or other roaming services overseas.
What should I put for the APN?
Only enter the APN provided in your Caylet order or product instructions. If you did not receive APN details, do not guess or enter anything.
Can I delete the eSIM and rescan it after installation?
Not always. Many QR codes can only be used once. If you have trouble, troubleshoot your settings first rather than deleting it.
Can I transfer my eSIM to a new Samsung or Pixel phone?
Whether you can transfer it depends on the phone, the carrier, and the eSIM product itself. Just because the operating system offers a transfer feature does not mean all travel eSIMs support it.
If my eSIM says "Activated," does that mean the plan timer has started?
Not necessarily. The device showing the profile is enabled might have different criteria than the provider's rules for when the validity period begins.
Official Reference Materials
Android and One UI interfaces may change with system updates. Here are the official resources from Samsung and Google:
- Samsung: Galaxy eSIM and supported network carriers
- Samsung: How to enable or disable mobile data on your Galaxy phone
- Samsung: How to reset the mobile network APN
- Google Pixel: Set up an eSIM
- Google Pixel: Get a SIM & add it to your phone
- Google Pixel: Connect to mobile networks
- Google Pixel: Use two SIMs
- Google Pixel: Fix mobile connection issues
Summary
The typical path for installing a travel eSIM on a Samsung Galaxy is:
Settings → Connections → SIM manager → Add eSIM → Scan QR code
On a Google Pixel, it is usually:
Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → Add SIM → Set up an eSIM
After installing, you must also:
- Give the eSIM a clear name.
- Set it as your mobile data line.
- Turn on data roaming as required by the product.
- Turn off data roaming for your original SIM card.
- Turn off unnecessary automatic data switching.
- Set an APN only if the order requires it.
- Avoid deleting the eSIM while troubleshooting.
Because Android brands, regional versions, and system interfaces differ significantly, the exact paths may vary slightly from this guide. Ultimately, rely on your device's actual screen, your manufacturer's official instructions, and the product requirements in your Caylet order.
