eSIM Guides

How to Set Up Your eSIM in Under 5 Minutes

Updated: · 6 min read

Updated installation steps for iPhone, Google Pixel, and Samsung Galaxy, plus activation and troubleshooting guidance.

How to Set Up Your eSIM in Under 5 Minutes

Quick answer

To install a travel eSIM, connect to reliable internet, open your phone's cellular or SIM settings, choose Add eSIM, and follow the supplied QR-code or manual activation instructions. Menu names vary by model, software version, carrier, and region.

Before you begin

  • Confirm that the exact device model supports eSIM.
  • Make sure the phone is unlocked for use with another provider.
  • Keep the QR code or manual activation details available on another screen.
  • Read when the plan's validity begins so you do not activate it too early.
  • Do not delete the eSIM after installation unless support tells you to do so.

iPhone Setup

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Tap Cellular or Mobile Data.
  3. Tap Add eSIM or Set Up Cellular.
  4. Choose Use QR Code or the activation method supplied with the plan.
  5. Label the line, for example “Linked Travel”.
  6. Choose the travel eSIM for mobile data when appropriate.
  7. Follow the plan instructions for data roaming.

Apple notes that availability and setup methods vary by model, region, and carrier. See Apple's current eSIM setup instructions for the exact device menus.

Google Pixel setup

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Tap Network & internet, then SIMs.
  3. Tap Add SIM, then Set up an eSIM.
  4. Follow the provider instructions and scan the QR code when prompted.
  5. Choose the new eSIM for mobile data.

Google states that the flow may vary by carrier. Check Google's current Pixel instructions.

Samsung Galaxy setup

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Tap Connections, then SIM manager.
  3. Tap Add eSIM.
  4. Scan the provider QR code or use the offered activation method.
  5. Set the preferred SIM for mobile data.

Samsung notes that screens vary by device, software version, and carrier. See Samsung's eSIM support guide.

Which line should handle mobile data?

After installation, set the travel eSIM as the mobile-data line. If you keep the home line on for calls or texts, disable unintended mobile-data use and review your carrier's roaming charges. Some phones offer automatic data switching; leave it off unless you understand when the home line could be used.

Tips for Success

  • Install while dependable internet is available.
  • Screenshot instructions, but protect QR codes and activation details.
  • Rename the lines clearly so the home and travel plans are easy to distinguish.
  • Download offline maps before departure.
  • Keep the purchase confirmation available for support.

Troubleshooting

If the eSIM installs but does not connect, confirm that the correct line is enabled for mobile data, follow the plan's roaming instructions, toggle airplane mode, and restart the phone. Do not repeatedly scan the activation code or delete the profile. If the issue continues, contact support with the order information and screenshots that do not expose sensitive activation credentials.

Use Linked's full installation guide and supported devices list. Device menus and product instructions can change, so follow the live guidance supplied with your plan.