How to activate eSIM on iPhone 15/15 Plus/ 15 Pro/15 Pro Max
Learn how to activate eSIM on iPhone 15/15 plus/15 pro/15 pro max for beginners. Then, learn how to use Dual SIM on iPhone 15 after activating the eSIM service.
Our tutorial will help you:
- Get your eSIM working without messing with your current phone plan.
- Keep all your contacts, photos, and settings safe during setup.
- Fix common problems if you get stuck activating your eSIM.
In this article
I. What to Prepare
- An iPhone 15, 15 plus, 15 pro, 15 Pro Max that are carrier-unlocked
- Stable internet connection (WiFi or cellular data)
- A QR code or manual activation code provided by your eSIM provider
Notes:
- Not all iPhone 15 models have eSIM. iPhones from mainland China do NOT have this feature. Some iPhones from Hong Kong and Macao do.
- Keep your iPhone updated. The setup steps might be a little different depending on your iOS version. Having the latest version is best.
- (Optional) Back up your iPhone. This saves your information just in case something goes wrong during setup.
II. How to activate eSIM on iPhone 15?
There are two ways to activate eSIM on iPhone 15 models:
- use QR code sent from your eSIM provider, or
- enter activation code manually.
Here we will give you a step by step guide to activate your eSIM on iPhone 15 models running on iOS 17 and iOS 16 (the same goes for older iOS versions).
Tip: If you have an iPhone 15 running on iOS 17, you can set up your eSIM by scanning the QR code's picture right on your phone without having to use another device to display the QR code. So we suggest upgrading to iOS 17 for convenience.
Now, let’s start!
1. QR Code Method
► For iPhone 17 running on iOS 17:
- Go to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM
- Tap on Use QR Code > Open Photos
- Choose the QR code image from Library > Continue
- Wait few minutes for adding eSIM
► For iOS version earlier iOS 17:
- Go to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM
- Tap on Use QR Code > Scan QR code > Continue
- Wait a few minutes to add eSIM
2. Manual Activation Method
You can set up your eSIM manually if you don’t have a QR code or it’s not working. You will just need to type in some information from your eSIM provider, like a website address (SM-DP+ Address) and a special code (Activation code).
Manual activation is often used on iOS versions earlier than iOS 17, but the same steps also apply to iPhone 15 devices running on iOS 17.
- Go to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM
- Tap on Use QR Code > Enter Details Manually
- Enter SM-SP Address and Activation Code > Continue
- Wait a few minutes to add eSIM
You have completed the eSIM installation and activation process on iPhone 15 series.
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III. Customization and Settings After eSIM Activation
Once you’ve activated your eSIM, you can make it even easier to manage by giving it a name:
1. Label the eSIM for Easy Identification
You can label each phone number to keep them straight. For example, you could label one as “Work” and the other as “Personal” or “Travel.” You can always change these labels later.
Here’s how to change the labels:
- Go to Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data).
- Tap the number you want to rename.
- Tap Cellular Plan Label.
- Choose a new label from the list or create your own.
2. Set the Default Line
You can choose which phone number to use for calls, texts, and data. It’s easy to set up:
- Calls and Texts: Tap the eSIM number you want to use for making calls and sending texts, then tap Continue.
- iMessage and FaceTime: Tap the eSIM number you want to use for iMessage and FaceTime, then tap Continue.
- Mobile Data: Tap the eSIM number you want to use for internet access, then tap Continue.
TNow your eSIM is ready to use.
IV. How to Use eSIM with iPhone 15 to Access Data?
After adding eSIM to your phone, to access data with the eSIM on iPhone 15, you need:
- Go to Settings > Cellular
- Tap on the eSIM
- Enable Turn On This Line and Data Roaming
- Back to Cellular > Tap on Cellular Data
- Choose the eSIM as Cellular Data and turn OFF Allow Cellular Data Switching
V. Why Can’t I Activate eSIM on iPhone 15?
Here are some common reasons why you might have trouble activating your eSIM:
- Check your internet: Make sure you’re online using Wi-Fi or mobile data.
- Carrier Compatibility: Not all phone companies offer eSIM yet.
- Software Update: Make sure you have the latest software on your iPhone 15.
These are common reasons why eSIM activation doesn’t work. Solve them first!
If you meet all the requirements but still cannot activate eSIM on your iPhone 15, then you can:
- Call your phone company: They can help you fix the problem and set up your eSIM.
- Call Apple: If your phone company can’t help, Apple might know what to do.
VI. FAQs
How do I switch between my eSIM and physical SIM?
You can choose which line to use for calls, messages, and data in your iPhone’s Settings > Cellular menu. You can label your plans for easy identification.
What happens if I lose my phone with my eSIM?
eSIMs are more secure than physical SIMs because they can’t be easily removed. If you lose your phone, contact your carrier to deactivate the eSIM and prevent unauthorized use.
How do I switch between my eSIM and physical SIM?
You can choose which line to use for calls, messages, and data in your iPhone’s Settings > Cellular menu. You can label your plans for easy identification.
I deleted my eSIM by accident. Can I recover it?
You’ll need to contact your carrier to reissue the eSIM profile. They can usually do this remotely.