Does my Android phone support eSIM?

Go to Settings and search for "eSIM" or "Download SIM". If a menu appears, you're good. Alternatively, check Settings → About Phone → SIM Status for an "EID" number — that confirms eSIM hardware is present.

Can Android use eSIM + physical SIM at the same time?

Yes on all Android flagships from 2020 onwards. The physical SIM stays in the tray, the eSIM is added as a second line, and both are active simultaneously.

My Samsung says "Invalid SIM". What does that mean?

Usually a carrier-locked phone rejecting a foreign profile. Contact your home carrier to unlock the device. Alternatively, some Pixel 6 devices on old security patches see this — update to the latest patch.

How do I delete an old eSIM to free up a slot?

Settings → Network → SIMs → tap the profile → Erase SIM. Android devices typically store 5–10 eSIM profiles and use 2 at a time.

Installation

How to install an eSIM on Android: Pixel, Samsung, and the rest

Android eSIM installation is almost identical across vendors — almost. Pixel, Samsung, and Xiaomi each have a quirk worth knowing.

Updated 2026-04-14

Key takeaway

"Every Android vendor implements the same GSMA eSIM standard, but their UI paths differ. The Settings app's search bar is the fastest way to find the eSIM menu on any device — search "eSIM" or "Download SIM"."

Google Pixel has supported eSIM since the Pixel 3 (2018). Samsung followed with the Galaxy S20 (2020). Since then the Android install flow has converged to a standard: Settings → Network → Add SIM → Download a SIM instead → scan QR.

Each vendor adds tiny differences. Samsung asks you to confirm the carrier name before install completes. Pixel 6 on old patches has a known eSIM registration bug. Xiaomi's MIUI hides the eSIM menu behind a different label. The core flow is the same but these details trip people up.

Universal Android flow

Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs (or Mobile Network) → Add eSIM or Download a SIM instead. Scan the QR code. Confirm the carrier name if prompted. Set the new profile as your data SIM. Enable Data Roaming on the new profile only. This is the flow on stock Android, Pixel, and Samsung One UI.

Pixel-specific notes

Pixel 3 through 10 all support eSIM. Pixel 6 on Android security patches older than March 2024 had a known bug where eSIM profiles failed to register on foreign networks — update to the latest patch before travelling. Pixel's Advanced Calling menu is where you'll find WiFi calling settings if you need them as a fallback.

Samsung Galaxy notes

Galaxy S20 and later support eSIM. Samsung One UI shows a confirmation dialog with the carrier name before install completes — confirm it matches your eSIM provider branding. Galaxy Z Flip and Fold devices also support eSIM. One regional caveat: some Samsung models sold in China and Korea ship without eSIM hardware — check Settings → About Phone → SIM Status for "eSIM" or "EID" to confirm your device has it.

Xiaomi and OnePlus notes

Xiaomi MIUI calls the menu "Mobile Networks" rather than "SIMs". OnePlus OxygenOS hides it under "Cellular & Data". The underlying flow is still scan-QR-confirm. If your device refuses to install the profile, the cause is usually a carrier-locked phone, not the eSIM itself.

Questions people actually ask.

Go to Settings and search for "eSIM" or "Download SIM". If a menu appears, you're good. Alternatively, check Settings → About Phone → SIM Status for an "EID" number — that confirms eSIM hardware is present.
Yes on all Android flagships from 2020 onwards. The physical SIM stays in the tray, the eSIM is added as a second line, and both are active simultaneously.
Usually a carrier-locked phone rejecting a foreign profile. Contact your home carrier to unlock the device. Alternatively, some Pixel 6 devices on old security patches see this — update to the latest patch.
Settings → Network → SIMs → tap the profile → Erase SIM. Android devices typically store 5–10 eSIM profiles and use 2 at a time.

Keep reading.

Related guides

Installation

How to install an eSIM on iPhone: the full walkthrough

Screenshots-style guide for every iPhone from XR onwards.

Troubleshooting

eSIM not working? A systematic troubleshooting checklist

The ten causes of "no service" on a freshly-installed eSIM, in order of likelihood.

Technical

Dual SIM with eSIM: keeping your home number and travel data

The exact settings that make your phone work abroad without surprises.

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