Quick Guide: Activate eSIM on Google Pixel
Nov
Activate eSIM on Google Pixel and forget the hassle of physical SIM cards. No more losing connection because of a misplaced SIM or digging around for that tiny ejector tool — eSIM makes switching carriers effortless.
With just a few taps, your Pixel connects instantly to mobile networks, letting you browse, call, and text without ever opening a SIM tray.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to set up and activate eSIM on your Google Pixel, step by step, so you can stay connected anywhere, anytime.
What does eSIM mean on Google Pixel phones?
An eSIM on Google Pixel is a built-in digital SIM that replaces the need for a physical card — meaning you can activate your mobile plan directly on your phone. All you need is an eSIM plan from your carrier, which you can usually buy and download via their app or website.
Once your plan is ready, activating it only takes a few taps in your settings. With eSIM, you can easily manage multiple numbers, switch between carriers, or stay connected while traveling — all without swapping SIM cards. It’s a smarter, faster, and more flexible way to connect.
List of Google Pixel phones that support eSIM
Most Google Pixel models now support eSIM, giving users a seamless way to connect without physical SIM cards. Starting with the Pixel 2 (available only through Google Fi in the US), Google gradually expanded eSIM support to include the Pixel 2 XL, Pixel 3, Pixel 3 XL, Pixel 3a, and Pixel 3a XL — though availability varies depending on the region and carrier. The Pixel 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and the latest Pixel 9 series (Pixel 9, 9 Pro, and 9 Pro XL), as well as the Pixel Fold, all come with full eSIM functionality.
While older devices like the Pixel 3a and 3a XL have been discontinued, newer generations now allow dual eSIM activation, meaning you can use two eSIM profiles at the same time — ideal for managing personal and work lines or switching between local and travel data plans. Interestingly, Google led the eSIM revolution by introducing it first on the Pixel 2 in 2017, even before Apple rolled it out on the iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR a year later.
Read more: Quick Guide: Set Up eSIM on Samsung Galaxy
How to set up and activate eSIM on Google Pixel
You can activate your eSIM on Google Pixel in two simple ways — by scanning a QR code or entering an activation code manually. But before you start, make sure you’ve completed a quick setup checklist:
- Check compatibility: Ensure your Google Pixel supports eSIM. Most recent models do, but it’s always worth confirming.
- Get your eSIM plan: Purchase an eSIM plan from your preferred carrier. You’ll receive either a QR code or an activation code — keep it nearby.
- Stay online: Make sure your Pixel is connected to a stable internet connection throughout the setup process.
Once everything’s ready, you can move on to activating your eSIM — it only takes a few minutes!
How to install eSIM on Google Pixel using a QR code
Once you’ve purchased your eSIM, you’ll receive a QR code via email or on paper from your provider. Activating it on your Google Pixel only takes about five minutes — just follow these steps:
1. Open Settings
Go to your home screen or app drawer and open the Settings app.
2. Go to Network Settings
Scroll down and tap Network & Internet, then choose SIMs or Mobile Network. If you see a “+” icon, tap it to add a new SIM.
3. Add Your eSIM
Select Download a SIM instead or Add eSIM. Depending on your Pixel model, you may also see an option that says Don’t have a SIM card? — tap it to continue.
4. Scan the QR Code
Tap QR code and point your phone’s camera at the code you received from your eSIM provider. Hold steady while your device scans and downloads the eSIM profile.
5. Activate Your eSIM
Once the download finishes, tap Activate or Turn on to enable the eSIM on your phone.
6. Customize and Set Preferences
Go back to the SIMs menu to rename your eSIM (for example, “Work” or “Travel”). You can also choose a color label and decide whether to use this eSIM for data, calls, or texts.
And that’s it! Your Google Pixel is now ready to go with your new eSIM — no physical card required.
Add an eSIM to Google Pixel using activation code
If you don’t have a QR code, you can still install your eSIM manually using an activation code from your carrier. Just follow the same steps up to step six in the eSIM setup process, then do the following:
- Instead of scanning a QR code, tap Use Activation Code.
- Enter the details provided by your carrier — usually sent via email or SMS. You’ll need:
- SM-DP+ Address: This is your carrier’s server address,
- Activation Code: A long alphanumeric string
- Tap Next to start downloading and activating your eSIM profile.
Once the process finishes, your eSIM will be ready to use — just like if you had scanned a QR code.
How to use both SIM and eSIM on Google Pixel
If your Google Pixel supports dual SIMs, you can take advantage of the Dual SIM Dual Standby (DSDS) feature. This allows both SIMs — physical or eSIM — to receive calls and messages, though only one can use mobile data at a time. You can easily switch between them, making it ideal for managing work and personal numbers or using a local data plan while traveling.
Keep in mind that DSDS availability depends on your carrier. On newer models like the Pixel 7 series and later, you can even use two eSIMs simultaneously, provided your carrier supports it.
Once you’ve installed both eSIMs, follow these steps to set your preferences:
- Open Settings.
- Go to Network & Internet > SIMs > Your Network.
- Set your preferences for each SIM:
- Data: Turn on Mobile data. Only one SIM can be used for data at a time.
- Calls: Tap Call Preference to choose your main SIM, or select Ask me every time.
- Texts: Tap SMS Preference to choose your main SIM, or select Ask me every time.
With DSDS, your Pixel lets you stay connected on both lines without the need to swap SIM cards – perfect for balancing multiple numbers with ease.
Whether you’re tired of juggling physical SIM cards, want a smooth way to switch between work and personal numbers, or need reliable data while traveling, an eSIM is the smarter solution. No more fumbling with SIM trays or worrying about losing tiny chips — just seamless connectivity right from your phone.
For a fast, flexible, and reliable experience, choose Twise. With Twise, you can stay connected across 195+ destinations worldwide. Setup takes just five minutes, and you can easily manage or change your eSIM plans anytime through the Twise website — even if you’re halfway across the globe. Stay connected wherever life takes you, powered by Twise.
