How can I receive SMS and calls while connected with my data-only eSIM?

If your eSIM supports data-only, you can still receive calls and SMS through another line.

You can learn how to make calls with data-only eSIM.

If you want to use your primary line for voice and text while using a data-only eSIM, you need to:

  • Enable the primary line
  • Select it up as your Default Voice Line.

However, to receive calls and SMS, you must also to enable the data roaming functionality on your device (as per your network carrier’s requirements). Please note that this will incur roaming charges. It is highly recommended to check and understand the roaming charges of your home network carrier before enabling this feature.

To set your primary line as the default line for voice calls while using a data-only eSIM, follow these steps:

On iOS devices:

  • Go to Settings > Cellular / Mobile Data > Primary Line / Main Line.
  • Switch on “Turn on this line”.
  • Return to the Cellular page and select Default Voice Line > choose your Primary Line.
  • Go back to the Cellular page > select Cellular / Mobile Data > choose your eSIM for mobile data.
Steps to set default line for calls and SMS with data-only eSIM on iOS devices
Steps to set default line for calls and SMS with data-only eSIM on iOS devices

On Samsung devices:

You have two options to set the primary line for voice and SMS:

Option 1: via Quick Settings Panel

  • Swipe down from the top of the screen to open the Quick Settings Panel.
  • Select Calls > choose your Primary Line.
  • Repeat the process for SMS.
  • Ensure your eSIM is selected for mobile data.
Steps to set default line for calls and SMS with data-only eSIM on Samsung devices - option 1
Steps to set default line for calls and SMS with data-only eSIM on Samsung devices – option 1

Option 2: via Settings menu

  • Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager. Under the Preferred SIM Card section:
    • Select Calls > choose your Primary Line.
    • Repeat for SMS.
  • Ensure your eSIM is selected for mobile data.
Steps to set default line for calls and SMS with data-only eSIM on Samsung devices - option 2
Steps to set default line for calls and SMS with data-only eSIM on Samsung devices – option 2

On Google Pixel devices:

The steps may vary by phone mode, but the general process is as follows:

  • Go to Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs.
  • Select your Primary Line and switch on “Use SIM” (if it is not already turned on).
  • Under Calls Preference, select your Primary Line.
    • When prompted, confirm which plan to use for calls.
  • Repeat the process for SMS Preference.
  • Ensure your eSIM is selected for mobile data.
Steps to set default line for calls and SMS with data-only eSIM on Google Pixel devices
Steps to set default line for calls and SMS with data-only eSIM on Google Pixel devices

After following the steps above, you will successfully set your Primary Line for voice and SMS while using your eSIM for mobile data.