Adding an eSIM is a smooth and simple process, whether you have an iPhone or an Android. Here's how to download your eSIM QR code and get connected.
Step 1: Check device compatibility
Before you dive in and buy your eSIM, make sure your device is compatible. Most newer smartphones are eSIM-ready, but it's worth double-checking your specific model before purchasing.
-
iPhone:
iPhones from the XR onwards support eSIM. That includes the iPhone XS, XS Max, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, and newer series. Worth knowing, iPhone 14 and later (US models) are eSIM-only with no physical SIM tray at all. To check compatibility, go to 'Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan.' If the option to add an eSIM is there, you're good to go.
-
Android:
Samsung Galaxy S20 and later, Google Pixel 3 and later, and most flagship Motorola and Sony Xperia models from 2020 onwards all support eSIM. To see if your device is eSIM compatible, go to 'Settings > Connections > SIM Manager.' Look for the option to "Add eSIM." If it's greyed out, your device may be carrier-locked, or the eSIM slot is already in use.
-
Windows laptops:
If you have a laptop with LTE or 5G connectivity (like a Surface Pro with LTE), it may also support eSIM. Just check 'Settings > Network & Internet > Cellular' to find out.
Note: Some devices are carrier-locked and may not support an eSIM from a third-party provider even if the hardware is capable. Check with your current carrier before purchasing if you're unsure.
Step 2: Buy your eSIM
First things first, choose your eSIM plan. Breeze offers a variety of plan sizes in over 190 countries, so pick the plan that best fits your connectivity needs. You'll need a valid email address at checkout, as your QR code backup will be sent there. Double-check it before completing payment. After adding it to your cart and completing the purchase, you'll receive your eSIM QR code.
Step 3: Receive your eSIM QR code
Once you've completed your purchase, Breeze will direct you to a page where your eSIM QR code will be available. It usually shows up instantly, but in some cases it can take up to 5 minutes. If you don't see the email within 5 minutes, check your spam or junk folder. The sender will be from a Breeze domain.
You'll also receive an email with the same QR code for easy access if you don't want to install your eSIM straight away. Your QR code is also accessible any time from your Breeze account dashboard under 'My eSIMs'.
A couple of things to keep in mind:
-
Your QR code is unique to your device and can only be scanned once. Don't share it with others or scan it on a device other than the intended one.
-
Each QR code is single-use. Once scanned and activated, it cannot be reused or transferred to another device.
Step 4: Download and install the eSIM QR code
Here's how to download and activate your eSIM on your device:
How to download eSIM for iPhone:
- Open Settings
- Tap Cellular or Mobile Data
- Select Add Mobile Plan (or Cellular Plan)
- Use your camera to scan the eSIM QR code
- Follow the on-screen prompts to finish activation
Note: On iOS 16 and later, you can also tap 'Enter Details Manually' instead of scanning. This works if you need to input the SM-DP+ address and activation code directly.
How to download eSIM for Android:
- Open Settings
- Go to Network & Internet or Connections
- Select Mobile Network or SIM Card Manager
- Tap Add Carrier or Add Mobile Plan
- Scan the QR code using your device's camera
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete activation
Note: On Samsung devices running One UI 4 or later, tap 'Add using activation code' instead of scanning the QR code if you prefer to enter the details manually.
Can't scan the QR code? Use the manual activation code instead.
If you're setting up an eSIM on the same device that's displaying the QR code, you won't be able to scan it with your own camera. In that case, use the manual activation details (the SM-DP+ address and activation code) provided alongside your QR code in the confirmation email.
Once your eSIM is active, you can set it as your primary data line while keeping your physical SIM for calls. Just go to 'Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data' and select your eSIM plan.
Need more help? We have put together step-by-step guides for iPhone, Samsung, Windows, and many more.
Step 5: Access previously purchased QR codes
Planning your next trip? You can buy your eSIM in advance and activate it at any time within 6 months. To find your purchased eSIMs:
- Log in to your Breeze account.
- Browse your order history to find your active QR codes.
- Note that expired or already activated QR codes won't be available.
How to find your eSIM QR code after purchase
If you've lost the original email, just log in to your account at breezesim.com and navigate to 'My Orders' or 'My eSIMs' - your QR code will be displayed there, provided it hasn't been activated yet.
However, keep in mind that:
- Activated eSIMs can't have their QR code re-displayed for security reasons. If you need to reinstall an eSIM on a new device, contact Breeze support.
- eSIMs purchased but not yet activated remain valid for 6 months from the date of purchase. After activation, the data validity period begins. Check your specific plan for details.
How to Troubleshoot "eSIM QR code not working."
If your eSIM QR code isn't scanning or your device shows an error during activation, here are the most common causes and how to fix them:
QR code won't scan
Increase the screen brightness on the device displaying the QR code. Hold your camera 20 to 30 cm away and make sure the lens is clean. A smudged lens or a dim screen are the two most common culprits.
"Unable to add plan" error on iPhone?
Restart your device and try again. Make sure your iOS is up to date, and check that your device isn't carrier-locked. A carrier-locked iPhone won't accept a third-party eSIM even if the hardware supports it.
QR code already used?
Each code is single-use. If it's already been scanned, the code is no longer valid. Get in touch with Breeze support, and the team can help sort out a replacement.
Wrong device?
QR codes are tied to the purchase. They can't be activated on a different device than the one used during setup. If you've switched phones, contact Breeze support before trying to activate.
Scanning still not working?
Skip the scan entirely. Use the SM-DP+ address and activation code from your confirmation email to manually add the eSIM. On iPhone, go to 'Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM > Use QR Code > Enter Details Manually.' On Samsung (One UI 4 or later), tap 'Add using activation code'.
Set Up Your eSIM With BreezeSIM
And there you have it! Downloading and activating your eSIM is quick, easy, and gives you the flexibility to connect from almost anywhere in the world without ever needing to swap out a SIM card.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to the most common questions about eSIM QR codes.
Can I use the same eSIM QR code on two devices?
No. Each QR code is single-use and device-specific. Once scanned, it cannot be reused on another device. If you need an eSIM on a second device, you'll need to purchase a separate plan.
How long is an eSIM QR code valid?
Unactivated QR codes from Breeze are valid for 6 months from the date of purchase. Once you activate the eSIM, the data plan's own validity period begins - check your specific plan for the exact timeframe.
Can I get an eSIM QR code without scanning it?
Yes. If scanning isn't an option, use the manual activation code instead. Your confirmation email includes both the QR code and the SM-DP+ address plus activation code, so you've always got a fallback.
What if I didn't receive my eSIM QR code by email?
Check your spam folder first. If it's not there, log in to your Breeze account to retrieve it under 'My eSIMs'. Still no luck? Contact Breeze support, and the team will get it sorted quickly.
