6 reasons why your eSIM might not be working

Looking for a quick way to stay connected while traveling or simply want a more flexible mobile plan? The eSIM could be the perfect solution. But what happens when it doesn’t work as expected? In this guide, we explore the 6 reasons why your eSIM might not be working and offer clear steps to resolve the issue.

What Is an eSIM?

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM that allows you to activate a cellular plan without using a physical SIM card. Instead of juggling multiple plastic SIM cards, you can download different eSIM profiles directly onto your device and switch between them with minimal effort. eSIM technology is particularly helpful for international travelers who want to avoid expensive roaming charges by subscribing to local data plans.

If you want more details on how eSIMs work and their advantages, take a look at what is an eSIM.

Why is your eSIM not working?

Even though eSIMs are designed for convenience, there are times when they fail to work properly. In this section, we’ll break down the most common causes to help you diagnose the issue.

Device Compatibility

One of the most common reasons your eSIM might be failing is device compatibility. Not every smartphone, tablet, or smartwatch supports eSIM technology. While newer phones from major manufacturers (such as Apple, Samsung, and Google) typically offer eSIM functionality, older or budget models may lack the necessary hardware.

Signs of compatibility issues:

• Your device does not show an “Add Mobile Plan” or “Add eSIM” option in the settings.

• You cannot scan the QR code provided by your carrier or the eSIM provider.

• Error messages such as “eSIM not supported on this device” may appear.

Solution:

1. Check your phone’s specifications: Refer to your device manufacturer’s website or consult your phone’s user manual.

2. Confirm that your model is listed as eSIM-compatible.

3. Many carriers have online tools to verify if a specific make and model supports eSIM. For instance, see is my phone esim compatible for more insights.

eSIM is not correctly installed

Installing an eSIM usually involves scanning a QR code or manually entering a confirmation code provided by the carrier. However, mistakes during the installation can render the eSIM profile inactive or corrupted.

Possible installation errors:

• Interruption during the QR code scan, such as losing internet connectivity.

• Entering the wrong confirmation code or phone number.

• Closing the installation app or system settings before the process completes.

Solution:

1. Follow the exact installation steps: Each carrier may have slightly different instructions. Make sure to read through them carefully.

2. Scan the QR code in a well-lit area: Avoid glare or reflections that prevent your camera from scanning properly.

3. Use stable internet: A reliable Wi-Fi connection can help prevent interruptions during the eSIM profile download.

For a detailed guide read set up eSIM on iPhone.

eSIM activation

Sometimes, the eSIM is installed correctly on your device, but it remains inactive because of a failed activation process. Your carrier must recognize and authenticate your eSIM profile on their network. If there’s a mismatch between your carrier’s records and your device settings, the eSIM may never fully activate.

Signs of activation problems:

• No signal bars or “No Service” displayed.

• The eSIM plan is shown as “Inactive” or “Pending Activation” in your phone’s cellular settings.

• You cannot make calls, send texts, or use data even though your plan is visible on the device.

Solution:

1. Contact your carrier: They may need to finalize the activation on their end.

2. Check for an SMS or email: Some carriers send a final confirmation request.

3. Confirm your plan’s status: Ensure you have an active subscription and that no billing issues are preventing activation.

Network signal or poor connectivity

Even if your eSIM is both compatible and correctly installed, you might be in an area with poor signal coverage. This is especially relevant when traveling abroad, as certain regions may have spotty coverage depending on your carrier’s agreements.

Symptoms of poor connectivity:

• Calls drop frequently or fail to connect.

• Slow internet speeds or no data connection at all.

• The signal strength indicator shows minimal or zero bars.

Solution:

1. Switch network settings to automatic: This prompts your device to connect to the strongest available network.

2. Move to an area with better reception: Urban centers and open spaces typically have better signals.

3. Enable data roaming if traveling: Make sure your phone is set to allow roaming when abroad, assuming your plan includes it.

Carrier issues

Sometimes, the glitch has nothing to do with your device or the eSIM itself; it could be a carrier-related issue. Carriers can experience network outages, undergo maintenance, or have account-specific problems that prevent your eSIM from functioning.

Red flags that point to carrier issues:

• A general outage or service disruption in your region.

• Other users with the same carrier complaining of similar problems.

• Your account might be on hold due to billing concerns.

Solution:

1. Check your carrier’s service status page: This can confirm if there’s a known outage.

2. Contact customer support: Ask if there are any ongoing issues or if your account is up to date.

3. Consider alternative carriers: If the problem is persistent and your phone is unlocked, you could download another eSIM.

Settings issues

Finally, sometimes the culprit lies in your device’s settings. A small misconfiguration can lead to big connectivity problems. For example, incorrect APN settings, data roaming turned off, or an outdated operating system that doesn’t support the latest eSIM features.

See can i use an esim on a locked phone  for more details.

Common settings mishaps:

• Cellular data toggle is switched off.

• Airplane mode is inadvertently on.

• The eSIM profile is disabled in your cellular plan management.

Solution:

1. Review all cellular settings: Make sure theRemove and Reinstall Your eSIM Profile correct eSIM profile is selected as your default for data, calls, or texts if applicable.

2. Update your device software: An outdated operating system can create conflicts with eSIM functionality.

3. Disable Airplane mode: Then toggle your cellular data back on.

How to fix your eSIM that is not working?

Now that we’ve covered the main reasons behind a problematic eSIM, let’s explore how to fix your eSIM step by step. These troubleshooting methods can help in most situations, whether the issue stems from improper settings or carrier problems.

Check the status of your eSIM

Before making any changes, verify if your phone recognizes the eSIM and whether it’s listed as active, inactive, or pending activation.

• Go to Settings > Cellular/Mobile > eSIM Profiles: Check if your eSIM plan shows “Active” or “Not Activated.”

• Verify your plan: Ensure your subscription is active and not expired.

If you see any indication that your plan is not active, contact your carrier to confirm everything is in order on their side.

Update your software

Keeping your device software up to date is critical, especially if you’re running an older version of iOS, Android, or another operating system. Updates often include bug fixes and improvements for eSIM functionality.

• Check for updates: Go to Settings > General > Software Update (for iOS) or Settings > System > System Update (for Android).

• Restart your device after updating: A fresh reboot helps in applying new settings.

Reset your network settings

If the problem persists, a network settings reset can often solve mysterious connectivity glitches by restoring the default configuration for Wi-Fi, cellular data, and Bluetooth.

• On iOS: Go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings.

• On Android: Navigate to Settings > System > Advanced > Reset Options > Reset Wi-Fi, Mobile & Bluetooth.

After the reset, rejoin your Wi-Fi network and check if your eSIM starts working properly.

Check the carrier activation

Even after you’ve completed the steps above, your eSIM might still be waiting for final approval from your carrier. In some cases, you may need to:

1. Contact customer support: They might need additional information or documents.

2. Enter a verification code: Your carrier might send an SMS or email with a link for final activation.

3. Confirm your billing details: Outstanding bills can lead to service disruption.

Once you’ve verified these details, try toggling airplane mode on and off, or restart your phone to update your network status.

By following these streamlined steps, you can resolve most eSIM-related problems quickly and enjoy a flexible, convenient mobile experience whether you’re switching carriers or traveling worldwide.