I’m trying to set up an eSIM on my iPhone but I’m stuck and need guidance. The instructions I followed didn’t work, and I’m unsure what the next step should be. Can someone help me activate it properly?
Oh, activating an eSIM on iPhone, huh? First off, make sure your iPhone model actually supports eSIM—can’t be out here trying to turn your toaster into a smartphone. Most newer ones, like iPhone XS and beyond, do. Also, check that your carrier isn’t stuck in the stone age and actually supports eSIM activation.
Now, go to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan. Your carrier probably gave you a QR code, right? If not, you gotta call them or access their app because, shocker, you can’t just manifest one out of nowhere. Scan that QR code like you’re pretending to be tech-savvy. Sometimes you’ll get an activation code to enter manually if scanning doesn’t work.
If things still don’t work, try restarting your phone, like turning it off and giving it a five-second pep talk before switching it back on. Tech loves a good nap. And make sure you’re on Wi-Fi during setup—your phone isn’t about to download ancient runes via 1 bar of cell signal in a dead zone.
If all else fails, call your carrier and brace yourself for hold music from hell. They might need to reset your eSIM profile or hold your hand through the process because let’s face it—they could mess it up too. Keep snacks nearby; you might be on the phone longer than expected.
Sounds like you’re in eSIM limbo over there. I’m gonna piggyback off what @himmelsjager mentioned and throw a few extra ideas your way. First, if the QR code thing isn’t working, try this: some carriers let you manually input the eSIM details without the code. Look for an “Enter Details Manually” option under that Add Cellular Plan section in your settings. You’ll usually need an SM-DP+ address and activation code from your carrier, which they should have provided (or conveniently forgot to mention).
Another thing, you might wanna double-check that your iPhone is on the latest iOS. Sometimes these updates sneak in fixes for eSIM-related issues. If your device software is outdated, the eSIM setup might trip over itself.
Also, if it STILL doesn’t work? Don’t underestimate the power of removing all your network settings (Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings). It’s annoying because you’ll lose saved Wi-Fi passwords, but it can unstuck certain connectivity quirks that block eSIM activation.
Lastly, a hot take here: I’m generally skeptical of relying solely on the carrier for help since their answer to most issues is “hold on, let me escalate” until you’ve aged five years. If you’re near a physical store, sometimes having an in-person chat can work wonders. Assuming your carrier hasn’t replaced people with robots yet, that is.