How to Set Up an eSIM on Android: Samsung & Pixel

Android eSIM setup varies by brand — Samsung hides it under Connections, Pixel under Network & internet — but the flow is the same everywhere, and as of 2026 many Android phones support the same one-tap install iPhones enjoy. Here's every path, brand by brand.

Before you start

An eSIM-capable Android. Galaxy S20 and newer, Z Flip/Fold series, Pixel 3 and newer, plus many recent Motorola, Xiaomi, and OnePlus models. Quick test: dial *#06# — if an EID appears, you have eSIM hardware. Full list: does my phone support eSIM.
Carrier-unlocked. Bought outright = usually unlocked; on contract = ask your carrier.
Wi-Fi for the download.

Method 1: one-tap install (newer Androids)

Android now supports the same universal-link eSIM install that Apple introduced — one tap, no QR code. It requires Android 10 or later with up-to-date Google services, and brand support is still rolling out, so the newest phones are most likely to have it.

Buy your plan in the AeroCell app.
Tap the install button on your eSIM.
Android's native eSIM flow opens — confirm and the profile installs.

If nothing happens when you tap, your device doesn't support the link yet — use the QR code below; the result is identical.

Method 2: QR code, brand by brand

Display the QR code from your confirmation email on another screen, then:

Samsung Galaxy: Settings → Connections → SIM manager → Add eSIM → Scan QR code.
Google Pixel: Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → Add SIM → Use eSIM → scan.
Other brands (Motorola, Xiaomi, OnePlus…): Settings → search "eSIM" — the Add eSIM entry lives under network settings; wording varies but the scan step is universal.

Manual fallback on every brand: choose "Enter code manually" and paste the SM-DP+ address and activation code from the email.

After installing: the settings that matter

Rename the eSIM in SIM settings ("Thailand trip") so the toggle list stays readable.
Keep the eSIM off until you land — or on; it costs nothing until it connects at the destination.
On arrival: enable the eSIM, set it as the mobile data SIM, and turn on data roaming for the eSIM only. That roaming toggle is required — travel eSIMs are roaming profiles by design; your home SIM's roaming stays off.
Calls and texts: leave them on your home SIM so your number keeps working; WhatsApp rides the eSIM's data with your existing number.

If it connects but no internet

Nine times out of ten it's the roaming toggle above. Occasionally Android needs an APN nudge: check your confirmation email for APN details, then Settings → Connections/Network → Mobile networks → Access Point Names → add/select the listed APN. Full checklist: eSIM troubleshooting guide.

Frequently asked questions

Dual SIM: can I run my normal SIM and the eSIM together?

Yes — that's the standard travel setup. Physical SIM for calls/SMS, eSIM for data, both active side by side.

How many eSIMs can my phone store?

Typically five to seven profiles depending on the model, with one or two active at a time. Old trip profiles can stay parked.

Does one-tap work on my Samsung/Pixel?

If it runs Android 10+ with current Google services, likely yes — recent flagships and Pixels are the safest bet. If not, the QR method takes ninety seconds. Try the tap first; there's no downside.

Where do I see how much data is left?

The AeroCell app and your dashboard show live usage per plan — more reliable than Android's own per-SIM counter.

Can I hotspot from the eSIM?

Yes, tethering works normally within your plan's allowance.

Get set up

Pick your destination plan, install it tonight over Wi-Fi, and land connected. Switching between platforms? The iPhone guide is here.