Fumbling with tiny SIM cards and hunting for a paperclip at the airport is officially outdated. With an eSIM, you can install your travel data plan before you even pack your bags—and activate it the moment you land.
This guide walks you through exactly how to install an eSIM on your iPhone, step by step, with screenshots. The whole process takes less than 60 seconds.
Before You Start: Quick Checklist
Before installing your Simbye eSIM, make sure your iPhone meets these requirements:
- Compatible iPhone model: iPhone XS, XR, or newer (including iPhone 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, and SE 2nd/3rd gen)
- Unlocked device: Your iPhone must not be carrier-locked. Check in Settings → General → About → look for "No SIM restrictions"
- Stable internet connection: Wi-Fi or mobile data is required to download the eSIM profile
- iOS 12.1 or later: For the best experience, update to the latest iOS version
Pro tip: Install your eSIM at home before your trip while you have stable Wi-Fi. Simbye eSIMs don't auto-activate—you control when they start.
How to Install eSIM on iPhone: 5 Easy Steps
Step 1: Open Settings and Add eSIM
- Open Settings on your iPhone
- Tap Cellular (or Mobile Data depending on your region)
- Tap Add eSIM
- Select Use QR Code
- Scan the QR code from your Simbye confirmation email or another device
Running iOS 17.4 or later? You can long-press a QR code received via email and select "Add eSIM" directly—no need to open the camera app.
Step 2: Confirm and Wait for Activation
- Tap Continue to confirm the installation
- Wait up to 10 minutes for the eSIM profile to download (usually takes seconds)
- Tap Done when the installation completes
Step 3: Label Your eSIM
Labeling your eSIM makes it easy to identify when switching between plans:
- Tap the > icon next to your new eSIM
- Choose a preset label or enter "Simbye" as a custom label
- Tap Done, then Continue
Step 4: Configure Your Default Lines
This step ensures your phone uses the right SIM for calls, texts, and data:
- Set Default Line to your primary (home) number → Tap Continue
- Keep iMessage & FaceTime on your primary line → Tap Continue
- For Mobile Data, select your Simbye eSIM label
Important: Turn OFF "Allow Mobile Data Switching" to prevent accidental roaming charges on your home plan.
Step 5: Activate When You Arrive
Your eSIM is installed but not yet active. When you arrive at your destination:
- Go to Settings → Mobile Service
- Select your Simbye eSIM from the list
- Toggle the line On
- Turn on Data Roaming
You should connect to a local network within seconds. That's it—you're online!
Why Install Your eSIM Before You Travel?
Unlike some providers that auto-activate eSIMs immediately, Simbye gives you full control. Install at home with stable Wi-Fi, then activate when you land. This approach means:
- No scrambling for airport Wi-Fi to set up your connection
- No wasted data days from premature activation
- No stress if something doesn't work—our 24/7 support can help before you leave
Simbye vs Other eSIM Providers: Installation Experience
| Feature | Simbye | Airalo | Holafly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Installation Method | QR Code + App | QR Code + App | QR Code + App |
| Auto-Activation | No (you control) | Some plans auto-activate | Some plans auto-activate |
| Free Trial to Test | 100MB free | No | No |
| 24/7 Human Support | Yes (15 agents, 12 languages) | Chatbot + slow email | Yes |
| Top-Up Option | Yes | Limited | No |
Troubleshooting: Common Installation Issues
QR code won't scan
Make sure your screen brightness is high and hold your phone steady. If scanning from another phone, zoom in on the QR code. You can also enter the activation details manually: go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Use QR Code → Enter Details Manually.
Installation stuck or failed
Check your internet connection and try again. If the issue persists, restart your iPhone and repeat the process. Simbye QR codes can be scanned multiple times until successfully installed.
eSIM installed but no signal
Make sure you've toggled on both the eSIM line AND Data Roaming in Settings → Mobile Service → [Your Simbye eSIM]. If you're still at home, the eSIM won't connect—it activates at your destination.
Need help?
Simbye's 24/7 support team responds in seconds via WhatsApp, Telegram, or Live Chat. No chatbots—real humans who speak 12 languages.
Which iPhones Support eSIM?
Apple introduced eSIM support in 2018, and every iPhone since the XS/XR supports the technology. Here's the full list:
- iPhone XS, XS Max, XR — 1 eSIM + 1 physical SIM
- iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max — 1 eSIM + 1 physical SIM
- iPhone SE (2nd & 3rd gen) — 1 eSIM + 1 physical SIM (3rd gen supports dual eSIM)
- iPhone 12 series — 1 eSIM + 1 physical SIM
- iPhone 13 series — Dual eSIM support + 1 physical SIM
- iPhone 14, 15, 16, 17 series — Dual eSIM support (US models are eSIM-only)
Note: iPhones purchased in mainland China do not support eSIM (except iPhone Air). Hong Kong and Macao models have limited eSIM support.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to install an eSIM on iPhone?
Less than 60 seconds. Scan the QR code, tap continue, and your eSIM profile downloads almost instantly. The longest part is configuring your default lines, which takes another 30 seconds.
Can I install my Simbye eSIM before traveling?
Yes—and we recommend it! Install your eSIM at home while connected to Wi-Fi. Simbye eSIMs don't auto-activate, so your data validity period only starts when you manually turn on the line at your destination.
What if I run out of data?
Simbye was the first eSIM provider to offer easy top-ups. Just open your account or the Simbye app, select your eSIM, and add more data—no need to buy and install a new eSIM.
Can I use my iPhone number and Simbye eSIM at the same time?
Yes! Your iPhone supports Dual SIM, meaning you can keep your home number active for calls and texts while using your Simbye eSIM for data. Just configure your default lines as shown in Step 4.
Does Simbye eSIM work with hotspot/tethering?
Yes, hotspot is included with all Simbye plans. Share your data with laptops, tablets, or travel companions at no extra cost.
What happens if installation doesn't work?
Contact our 24/7 support team via WhatsApp, Telegram, or live chat. Real humans respond in seconds—not chatbots. We'll walk you through troubleshooting or issue a new QR code if needed.
Stay Connected with Simbye
Installing an eSIM on your iPhone takes less than a minute—and with Simbye, you get the cheapest prices in the market, 24/7 human support, and a free 100MB trial to test before you commit.
Try Simbye Free (100MB Trial) →
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