You've purchased your travel eSIM, opened the email with your QR code, and... nothing happens. Maybe your camera won't focus. Maybe the lighting is terrible. Maybe the QR code just refuses to cooperate.
Don't panic. There's a backup plan: manual installation using your SM-DP+ address. This guide explains exactly what that technical-sounding term means and walks you through the process step by step.
What Is an SM-DP+ Address?
SM-DP+ stands for Subscription Manager Data Preparation Plus. Despite the complicated name, it's simply a server address—the digital location where your eSIM profile is stored and waiting for your phone to download it.
Think of it like a delivery address for a package. When you order something online, the delivery company needs to know where to pick it up. Your phone needs to know where to "pick up" your eSIM profile. The SM-DP+ address tells your device exactly which server to contact.
When you scan an eSIM QR code, that code contains two pieces of information encoded inside it:
- SM-DP+ Address: The server address (looks like a URL, such as "rsp.simbye.com")
- Activation Code: A unique identifier for your specific eSIM (also called the "matching ID")
Scanning the QR code automatically extracts both pieces and sends them to your phone. Manual installation simply means entering these two pieces of information yourself instead of letting the camera do it.
How Does the SM-DP+ Address Work?
When you activate an eSIM, here's what happens behind the scenes:
- Your phone contacts the SM-DP+ server using the address you provided
- The server authenticates your device and checks for your specific eSIM profile using the activation code
- The server sends your eSIM profile securely to your phone
- Your phone installs the profile onto the embedded eSIM chip
- You're connected and ready to use mobile data
This entire process takes about 60 seconds when everything works correctly. The SM-DP+ server ensures security throughout—only your authorized device receives your specific eSIM profile.
When Do You Need Manual Installation?
Most eSIM providers send QR codes because scanning is faster and eliminates typing errors. However, manual installation becomes necessary in several situations:
- Camera problems: Cracked lens, focus issues, or camera app not working
- Poor lighting: Too dark or too bright to scan properly
- QR code display issues: Low-resolution image, screen glare, or distorted code
- Same-device installation: The QR code is on the same phone you're trying to install the eSIM on
- IoT devices: Routers, modems, or other devices without cameras
- Troubleshooting: QR scanning fails repeatedly for unknown reasons
Knowing how to manually install your eSIM means you'll never be stranded without connectivity, regardless of technical hiccups.
Where to Find Your SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code
Your eSIM provider supplies both pieces of information when you purchase a plan. Here's where to look:
- Confirmation email: Most providers include the SM-DP+ address and activation code below or alongside the QR code image
- Provider's app: Check your account or "My eSIMs" section for manual installation details
- Provider's website: Log into your account dashboard to view installation options
- Customer support: Contact your provider if you can't locate the information
With Simbye, you'll find both the QR code and manual installation details in your order confirmation email and in your account dashboard. Our 24/7 support team can also provide this information via WhatsApp, Telegram, or live chat if needed.
How to Manually Install eSIM on iPhone
Follow these steps to manually add your eSIM without scanning a QR code:
Before You Start
- Connect to a stable Wi-Fi network
- Have your SM-DP+ address and activation code ready
- Ensure your iPhone is carrier-unlocked
- Update to the latest iOS version
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Open the Settings app
- Tap Cellular (or Mobile Data in some regions)
- Tap Add eSIM or Add Cellular Plan
- When the camera opens, tap Enter Details Manually at the bottom of the screen
- Enter your SM-DP+ Address in the first field (copy and paste to avoid errors)
- Enter your Activation Code in the second field
- Leave the Confirmation Code field blank (unless your provider specified one)
- Tap Next
- Wait for the profile to download (this may take a few moments)
- When prompted, tap Add Cellular Plan or Continue
- Label your eSIM (e.g., "Travel" or "Simbye")
- Choose your preferred settings for Default Line, iMessage, and Cellular Data
After Installation
Your eSIM is now installed but may not be active yet. For travel eSIMs:
- Go to Settings → Cellular
- Tap on your new eSIM (the one you just labeled)
- Turn on Data Roaming
- Make sure Turn On This Line is enabled
Your eSIM will connect to a local network when you arrive at your destination.
How to Manually Install eSIM on Android
Android steps vary slightly by manufacturer, but the general process is similar across Samsung, Google Pixel, and other devices.
Before You Start
- Connect to stable Wi-Fi
- Have your SM-DP+ address and activation code ready
- Ensure your phone is carrier-unlocked
- Update your phone's software
Samsung Galaxy Devices
- Open Settings
- Tap Connections
- Tap SIM Manager or SIM Card Manager
- Tap Add eSIM or Add Mobile Plan
- When the camera opens, tap Enter Activation Code or look for a manual entry option
- Enter the SM-DP+ Address
- Enter the Activation Code
- Tap Connect or Add
- Wait for the profile to download
- Enable the eSIM when prompted
Google Pixel Devices
- Open Settings
- Tap Network & Internet
- Tap SIMs or Mobile Network
- Tap the + icon or Add eSIM
- When asked "Don't have a SIM card?", tap Next
- Tap Enter Code Manually or Need Help?
- Enter your SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code
- Tap Next and follow the prompts
After Installation (All Android)
- Go to Settings → Connections → SIM Manager (or similar)
- Select your new eSIM
- Enable Mobile Data
- Enable Data Roaming
- Set up APN settings if required (check your provider's instructions)
Common Problems and How to Fix Them
"This Code Is No Longer Valid"
This error typically means the QR code or activation code has already been used. Each eSIM activation code works only once—even if you cancelled the installation halfway through.
Solution: Check if the eSIM is already installed on your device under Settings → Cellular/SIM Manager. If not, contact your provider for a new activation code.
"eSIM Cannot Be Added" or "Unsupported eSIM"
This usually indicates your phone is carrier-locked, meaning it's restricted to one specific carrier and won't accept eSIMs from other providers.
Solution: Contact your original carrier to unlock your device. Most carriers will unlock phones that are fully paid off.
"Unable to Activate eSIM" or Stuck on "Activating..."
This typically points to connectivity issues or network problems.
Solution:
- Ensure you have a strong Wi-Fi connection
- Disable any VPN apps
- Turn off Airplane Mode
- Restart your phone and try again
- Reset network settings (note: this erases saved Wi-Fi passwords)
Invalid SM-DP+ Address Error
Typing errors are the most common cause of failed manual installation.
Solution:
- Copy and paste the address instead of typing it manually
- Check for extra spaces before or after the address
- Verify the address is complete (no missing characters)
- Remember: the SM-DP+ address is NOT a clickable website URL
eSIM Installed But No Connection
Your eSIM profile downloaded successfully, but you're not getting any signal.
Solution:
- Verify Data Roaming is turned ON for your eSIM
- Make sure you're in the coverage area (travel eSIMs only work at your destination)
- Try manually selecting a network: Settings → Cellular → Network Selection → disable Automatic and choose a carrier
- Toggle Airplane Mode on and off to force a network search
Tips for Successful Manual Installation
Follow these best practices to avoid issues:
- Always copy and paste the SM-DP+ address and activation code—don't type manually
- Install before you travel while you have reliable Wi-Fi at home
- Save a screenshot of your activation details in case you need them later
- Don't delete installed eSIMs unless you're certain you no longer need them (you may not be able to reinstall)
- Update your phone's software before installation—outdated systems can cause compatibility issues
- Disable VPNs during installation as they can interfere with the server connection
SM-DP+ Address vs. QR Code: Which Is Better?
Neither method is "better"—they accomplish the same thing. The QR code simply contains your SM-DP+ address and activation code in a format your camera can read instantly.
| Method | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| QR Code Scan | Most users | Fastest, no typing errors | Requires working camera |
| Manual Installation | Troubleshooting, IoT devices | Works without camera | Risk of typing errors |
The important thing is that both methods exist. If one doesn't work, you always have a backup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I find the SM-DP+ address on my phone?
No. The SM-DP+ address is specific to your eSIM plan and must be provided by your eSIM provider. You cannot locate it in your device settings—it only exists in your provider's system until you download the profile.
Is the SM-DP+ address a website I can visit?
No. While it looks like a URL (e.g., "rsp.provider.com"), you cannot open it in a web browser. It's a server address that only your phone's eSIM system can communicate with.
Can I use the same SM-DP+ address and activation code on multiple devices?
No. Each activation code is single-use and ties the eSIM profile to one specific device. If you need eSIMs for multiple devices, you'll need separate plans with separate activation codes.
What if I accidentally deleted my eSIM?
Contact your provider. Some providers can reissue the activation code, while others may require you to purchase a new eSIM. With Simbye, our support team can help you reinstall if needed.
Do I need to enter anything in the "Confirmation Code" field?
Usually not. Most eSIM providers don't use confirmation codes. Leave this field blank unless your provider specifically instructs you to enter something there.
Why does manual installation fail when QR scanning also failed?
The issue likely isn't with the installation method but with something else—such as a carrier-locked phone, expired activation code, or connectivity problem. Work through the troubleshooting steps above to identify the root cause.
Get Connected with Simbye
Understanding SM-DP+ addresses gives you the confidence to handle any eSIM installation scenario. Whether you scan a QR code in seconds or manually enter the details, you'll always have a path to connectivity.
Simbye provides both QR codes and manual installation details with every purchase. If anything goes wrong, our 24/7 human support team—15 agents speaking 12 languages—is ready to help via WhatsApp, Telegram, or live chat. No chatbots, no waiting, just real solutions.
Ready to try eSIM for yourself? Start with our free 100MB trial—no credit card required—and see how simple staying connected can be.
Download the Simbye app for the easiest installation experience:
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