Source: Magnific

An eSIM QR code is a machine-readable code that contains your carrier's activation data, including the SM-DP+ server address and the activation code. Your device reads this code to download and install the eSIM profile remotely.

QR code delivery is the most common eSIM provisioning method because it works across all RSP (Remote SIM Provisioning) compatible devices without requiring a physical SIM card swap.

Getting your eSIM QR code is the first step to activating your new data plan, and if your QR code won't scan, you can also enter your details manually using the activation code and SM-DP+ address - both methods are covered below.

Adding an eSIM is a smooth, simple process, whether you have an iPhone or an Android phone. Here's how to get your eSIM QR code and get connected.

Step 1: Check device compatibility

Before you dive in and buy your eSIM, you first need to make sure your device is compatible. Most newer smartphones are eSIM-ready, but you still need to confirm if your phone is compatible before you purchase.

On iPhone, eSIM is supported from the iPhone XR onwards, covering the XS, XS Max, 11 series, 12 series, 13 series, 14 series, 15 series, 16, and newer series.

Note: iPhone 14 and later models sold in the US are eSIM-only, meaning there is no physical SIM tray.

On Android, compatible devices include Samsung Galaxy S20 and later, the Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip series, Google Pixel 3 and later, and many recent Motorola Razr and OnePlus models. You can check the full list of eSIM-compatible devices to confirm whether your specific model is supported.

To confirm compatibility:

  • On iPhone:

Go to “Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan." If the option to add an eSIM appears, your device is eSIM-compatible. You should see 'Add eSIM' on your screen, like this:

  • On Android:

Go to "Settings > Connections > SIM Manager." Look for the option to "Add eSIM."

You can also check by dialling *#06# on your device. If an EID number appears on screen alongside your IMEI, your device is eSIM-ready. Your EID (Embedded Identity Document) is the unique 32-digit identifier for your eSIM chip. If your phone has one, it supports eSIM.

Most eSIM-compatible phones also support Dual SIM Dual Standby (DSDS), which means you can keep your existing physical SIM active for calls and texts while running the Breeze eSIM for data. No need to choose between your home number and your travel data.

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. After adding it to your cart and completing the purchase with your email address, 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 displayed. It usually shows up instantly, but in some cases it can take up to 5 minutes. 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.

If the email doesn't arrive within 5 minutes, check your spam or junk folder, as transactional emails from eSIM providers are occasionally filtered. Your QR code is also permanently accessible in your Breeze account dashboard under 'My eSIMs', so you don't need to rely solely on the email. You can download the QR code as a PDF or take a screenshot for offline use, which is handy if you plan to install the eSIM while already abroad without reliable Wi-Fi.

Note: Each eSIM QR code can only be scanned and activated once. Once installed, the QR code is consumed and cannot be reused on a second device.

Step 4: Download and install the eSIM QR code

Before scanning, make sure your device is connected to Wi-Fi. eSIM profile downloads require an active internet connection and cannot be completed over mobile data alone.

Here's how to download and activate your eSIM on your device:

How to download eSIM for iPhone:

  1. Open Settings
  2. Tap Cellular or Mobile Data
  3. Select Add Mobile Plan (or Cellular Plan)
  4. Use your camera to scan the eSIM QR code
  5. On iOS 17 and later, you may see a 'Use QR Code' option directly on the Add eSIM screen. Tap it to open the camera without leaving Settings
  6. Follow the on-screen prompts to finish activation

During setup, you'll be prompted to label the eSIM, for example, 'Travel' or 'Breeze Data'. This helps you identify it in your SIM settings when switching between lines.

How to download eSIM for Android:

  1. Open Settings
  2. Go to Network & Internet or Connections
  3. Select Mobile Network or SIM Card Manager
  4. Tap Add Carrier or Add Mobile Plan
  5. Scan the QR code using your device's camera
  6. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete activation

Samsung Galaxy devices (One UI):

The path is "Settings > Connections > SIM Manager > Add eSIM > Scan QR code." The exact process may vary depending on your One UI version.

Google Pixel devices:

Go to "Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > Add SIM."

Need more help? We have put together step-by-step guides for iPhone, Samsung, and Windows devices.

How to install an eSIM without a QR code (manual activation)

If your QR code won't scan - for example, because you're installing the eSIM on the same device you're reading this on - you can enter your eSIM details manually using the activation code and SM-DP+ server address. Both values are included in your Breeze confirmation email and in your account dashboard alongside the QR code itself.

On iPhone:

  1. Open “Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan”
  2. Tap "Enter Details Manually" at the bottom of the screen
  3. Enter the SM-DP+ address and the activation code exactly as shown in your email
  4. Tap Next and follow the on-screen prompts to complete installation

On Android (stock):

  1. Open “Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > Add SIM”
  2. Look for the option to enter a code manually or type in an activation code
  3. Enter the SM-DP+ address and activation code
  4. Follow the prompts to finish the carrier configuration

On Samsung (One UI),

  1. Go to “Settings > Connections > SIM Manager > Add eSIM”
  2. Select "Enter activation code" instead of scanning
  3. Type in the SM-DP+ address and activation code from your email
  4. Confirm and follow the remaining steps

Manual entry works the same way as scanning, resulting in an identical eSIM profile installed on your device. It just takes a little longer to type. If you're unsure where to find your activation code, log in to your Breeze account dashboard or check your purchase confirmation email.

Step 5: Access previously purchased QR codes

Planning ahead? You can buy your eSIM in advance and activate it anytime. eSIM QR codes purchased from Breeze are valid for 6 months from the date of purchase. The data plan activates and begins counting down only when you first connect to a network in your destination country, so buying early won't eat into your data allowance.

To find your purchased eSIMs:

  1. Log in to your Breeze account.
  2. Browse your order history to find your active QR codes.
  3. Note that expired or already activated QR codes won't be available here.

However, keep in mind that there are expired and consumed codes. An expired code means the 6-month purchase window passed without activation. A consumed code means it was successfully scanned and installed – the eSIM profile lives on your device even after the QR code itself is gone. If your QR code shows as expired, contact Breeze support. In most cases, a replacement can be issued if the plan was never activated.

Already activated eSIMs can be managed (toggled on or off, checked for remaining data) directly in your device's SIM settings or via the Breeze account dashboard.

And there you have it! Downloading and activating your eSIM is quick and easy, giving you the flexibility to connect from almost anywhere in the world without ever needing to swap out a SIM card.

How to troubleshoot errors during eSIM installation

If your device won't scan the eSIM QR code or you see an error during installation, one of the following fixes will usually resolve the issue:

1. The camera won't focus on the QR code

Try increasing your screen brightness if you're scanning from another device or a printed page. Hold the camera steady about 15-20 cm from the code, and wait for it to lock focus. If you're scanning from a laptop screen, zoom in slightly so the QR code fills more of the frame.

2. "eSIM already installed" error

This means the QR code has already been scanned and consumed. Each eSIM QR code is single-use. Once it's been activated on a device, it cannot be used again. If you need to reinstall the eSIM (for example, after a factory reset), contact Breeze support to request a replacement code.

3. "Device not compatible" or "Unable to add plan" error

First, double-check that your device model is on the eSIM-compatible devices list. If it is, the most likely cause is a carrier lock. Your device may be locked to your home network and unable to accept a third-party eSIM profile. Contact your home carrier to request a network unlock before trying again.

4. QR code scan fails on the same device you're reading this on

You can't scan a QR code that's displayed on the same screen you're trying to scan with. Use the manual activation method described in the section above, or open the QR code on a second device (laptop, tablet, or another phone) and scan it from there.

5. Installation stalls or the profile won't download

Make sure you're connected to a stable Wi-Fi network. eSIM profile downloads cannot complete over mobile data. If the download stalls, cancel, reconnect to Wi-Fi, and try again. Restarting your device before attempting installation can also help clear any temporary conflicts.

Still stuck?

Reach out to Breeze support via live chat. Our typical response time is under 2 minutes. Also, ensure you have your order number and device model ready to speed things up.

FAQs

eSIM FAQs

No, Each eSIM QR code is single-use and tied to one device installation. Once the QR code has been scanned and the eSIM profile downloaded, the code is consumed and cannot be reused. If you need an eSIM for a second device, you'll need to purchase a separate plan.

Log in to your Breeze account dashboard. Your QR code is stored there permanently under 'My eSIMs'. You can view it, download it as a PDF, or copy the manual activation code from the same page. If you're having trouble accessing your account, contact Breeze support via live chat.

Your Breeze eSIM QR code is valid for 6 months from the date of purchase. Importantly, the data plan only activates when you first connect to a network in your destination country, so buying in advance won't shorten your plan. Once the data plan is active, the validity period and data allowance begin counting down according to your plan terms.

eSIM profiles are device-locked, which means they cannot be transferred from one phone to another. If you upgrade your device or switch phones, you'll need a new eSIM for the new device. Contact Breeze support if you're in this situation, and we'll advise on your options.

Yes, An active Wi-Fi connection is required to download the eSIM profile after scanning the QR code. The scan itself doesn't need Wi-Fi, but the profile download that follows does. Make sure you're on a stable Wi-Fi network before you start the installation process.