Before You Start
Make sure your device supports eSIM. Go to Settings and search for "eSIM" or "Add Cellular Plan." If you see it, you are good. You also need Wi-Fi to download the eSIM profile, and you should buy your eSIM 1-2 days before your trip so you can install it calmly at home.
Installing eSIM on iPhone (iOS 17+)
- After purchasing your aloSIM plan, check your email for the QR code
- On your iPhone, go to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM
- Tap Scan QR Code and point your camera at the code in the email
- When prompted, tap Continue to add the cellular plan
- Label the plan something like "aloSIM Europe" for easy identification
- Choose Secondary as the default for cellular data
- Turn off Allow Cellular Data Switching to avoid using your home SIM abroad
Installing eSIM on Samsung Galaxy (One UI 6+)
- Open your aloSIM email and save the QR code image to your gallery
- Go to Settings > Connections > SIM card manager > Add eSIM
- Tap Scan QR code from image and select the saved QR code
- Follow the prompts to download and install the profile
- Toggle the new eSIM ON in the SIM card manager
- Set the eSIM as the default for Mobile data
Installing eSIM on Google Pixel (Android 14+)
- Go to Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > Download a SIM
- Tap Next and scan the QR code from your aloSIM email
- Your phone will download the profile automatically
- Once installed, tap the new SIM and set it as Mobile data default
- Under Preferred network type, select 5G/4G/3G for best speeds
Activating When You Land
Here is the key step most people miss: turn on Data Roaming for the eSIM only. On iPhone, go to Settings > Cellular > your eSIM plan > turn ON Data Roaming. On Android, it is usually under Settings > Connections > Mobile networks > Data roaming. Do NOT turn on roaming for your home SIM unless you want a nasty bill.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- "No service" after activation — Wait 2-3 minutes. Some networks take time to register a new eSIM. If still nothing, restart your phone.
- "Invalid QR code" — Make sure you are scanning the full QR code, not a cropped version. Try manual entry if available.
- Slow speeds — Go to Settings and manually select a different carrier. aloSIM usually connects to the best one, but sometimes a backup carrier is faster.
- Can't find eSIM settings — Your phone might be carrier-locked. Contact your home carrier to unlock it, or use a different device.
Bottom line: Installing an eSIM takes 60-90 seconds once you know the steps. Do it at home over Wi-Fi before your trip, and you will land with data ready to go. No stress, no queues, no surprises.