Activating an eSIM on your Samsung Galaxy Z Flip series phone typically involves downloading your mobile plan’s profile. This usually requires a Wi-Fi or mobile data connection to complete the download. There are generally three methods to activate an eSIM profile, provided by your mobile network carrier.
Before You Start: Essential Preparations
- Check eSIM Compatibility: While all Z Flip series phones are generally eSIM compatible, confirm with your network carrier (telecom provider) that they support eSIMs for your specific Samsung Galaxy Z Flip model and in your region. Some carrier-locked phones or devices from certain regions (e.g., China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Macao) might have restrictions.
- Obtain eSIM Information from Your Carrier: You will need an eSIM profile from your mobile network carrier. This usually comes in one of three forms:
- A QR code (most common and easiest).
- An activation code to be entered manually.
- A pre-assigned plan that activates automatically.
- Internet Connection: Ensure your Samsung Galaxy Z Flip is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network or has an active mobile data connection from an existing physical SIM. This is necessary to download the eSIM profile.
Method 1: Add Using QR Code (Most Common)
This is the most frequent and straightforward method for eSIM activation. Your carrier will provide you with a QR code, usually in an email or on a physical voucher.
Step 1: Access SIM Card Manager
- Action:
- Open the “Settings” app on your Samsung Galaxy Z Flip phone.
- Tap on “Connections.”
- Tap on “SIM card manager.”
Step 2: Add Mobile Plan
- Action: In the SIM card manager, tap on “Add mobile plan” or “Add eSIM.”
- Your phone will typically start searching for pre-assigned plans. If none are found or you’re using a QR code, you’ll be prompted with options.
Step 3: Scan the QR Code
- Action: Tap on “Add using QR code” (or similar wording like “Scan QR code”).
- Your phone’s camera will open. Position your Samsung Galaxy Z Flip to scan the QR code provided by your network carrier. Ensure the entire QR code is visible within the camera frame.
- Action: After scanning, your phone will detect the eSIM profile. Tap “Add” or “Confirm” when prompted.
Step 4: Download and Activate eSIM Profile
- Action: Your phone will now download and activate the eSIM profile. This process may take a few minutes.
- Once completed, you’ll receive a notification that the eSIM has been successfully activated. Tap “OK” or “Done.”
Method 2: Enter Activation Code Manually
Some carriers might provide a long activation code instead of a QR code.
Step 1: Access SIM Card Manager & Add Mobile Plan
- Action: Follow Step 1 and Step 2 from Method 1 (Settings > Connections > SIM card manager > Add mobile plan).
Step 2: Choose Manual Entry
- Action: Instead of scanning a QR code, tap on “Enter activation code” or “Add using activation code” (or similar wording).
Step 3: Enter Activation Code
- Action: Carefully type in the activation code exactly as provided by your carrier. Pay close attention to uppercase/lowercase letters and any special characters.
- Action: Tap “Add” or “Connect.”
Step 4: Download and Activate eSIM Profile
- Action: Your phone will download and activate the eSIM profile. Wait for the confirmation message indicating successful activation.
Method 3: Install a Pre-assigned Plan Automatically
Some network providers support an automatic eSIM activation process, where the plan is already linked to your device’s unique identifier.
Step 1: Access SIM Card Manager & Add Mobile Plan
- Action: Follow Step 1 and Step 2 from Method 1 (Settings > Connections > SIM card manager > Add mobile plan).
Step 2: Automatic Detection
- Action: Your phone will typically automatically detect if a pre-assigned plan is available. If it finds one, it will prompt you to download and activate it.
- Action: Confirm the activation when prompted.
Note: For this method, your carrier might ask for your phone’s EID (eSIM ID). You can find your EID by going to Settings > About phone > Status information > EID.
Step 5: Manage Your eSIMs in SIM Card Manager
After activation, you can manage your eSIM profile(s) and physical SIM from the SIM card manager.
- Action: Go to Settings > Connections > SIM card manager.
- Here, you can:
- Toggle SIMs on/off: Temporarily enable or disable your physical SIM or eSIM.
- Set preferred SIM: Choose which SIM to use for calls, texts, and mobile data by default.
- Rename SIMs: Give your eSIM (and physical SIM) custom names (e.g., “Work,” “Personal,” “Travel SIM”) for easier identification.
- Remove an eSIM: If you no longer need an eSIM profile, you can select it and tap “Remove.” Remember that removing an eSIM from your device does not terminate your contract with the network provider. You must contact your carrier to cancel the service.
Tips for a Smooth eSIM Activation
- Strong Internet Connection: A stable Wi-Fi connection is best for downloading the eSIM profile.
- No Other SIMs During Activation (Optional): While not always necessary, some users find it smoother to remove any physical SIM cards before activating an eSIM to avoid potential conflicts, then reinsert them afterward.
- Restart Your Phone: After activation, a quick restart can help ensure all network settings are properly applied.
- Contact Your Carrier: If you encounter any issues, your network carrier’s customer support is the primary point of contact as they manage the eSIM profile provisioning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Which Samsung Z Flip models support eSIM?
All models in the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip series are designed to support eSIM:
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5G
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 However, compatibility can vary by region and carrier, so always confirm with your provider.
Q2: What are the main benefits of using an eSIM on my Samsung Z Flip?
- Dual SIM Functionality: Allows you to use two different numbers (one physical SIM + one eSIM) on the same device.
- Easier Carrier Switching: You can switch between mobile plans or carriers without physically swapping SIM cards.
- Convenience for Travelers: Easily add a local data plan when traveling abroad without needing to buy a local physical SIM or incur high roaming charges.
- Space Saving: Eliminates the need for a physical SIM tray, potentially allowing for other internal components or a slightly more robust design.
- Environmental Friendly: Reduces plastic waste from traditional SIM cards.
Q3: Can I use both a physical SIM and an eSIM simultaneously on my Z Flip?
Yes, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip series supports Dual SIM Dual Standby (DSDS) functionality, meaning you can have one physical nano-SIM and one eSIM active at the same time. You can choose which SIM to use for calls, messages, and mobile data.
Q4: What should I do if my eSIM activation fails?
- Check Internet Connection: Ensure you have a strong, stable Wi-Fi or mobile data connection.
- Verify QR/Activation Code: Double-check that the QR code is clear and untampered, or that the activation code is entered exactly.
- Restart Phone: Sometimes a simple restart can resolve minor glitches.
- Contact Carrier: The most effective step is to contact your mobile network carrier. They can verify if the eSIM profile is correctly provisioned on their end, provide a new QR/activation code, or troubleshoot the issue directly.
Q5: Can I transfer an eSIM profile from my old Samsung phone to a new Z Flip?
Yes, Samsung supports eSIM Instant Transfer (or similar features) which allows you to move your eSIM profile from one Samsung Galaxy device to another without contacting your carrier.
- On your new Z Flip: Go to Settings > Connections > SIM card manager > Add mobile plan > Transfer SIM from another device.
- On your old Samsung device: You’ll receive a pop-up to confirm the transfer. Follow the on-screen instructions, which usually involve a verification code.
- Note: The new device must be unlocked from any carrier restrictions for the transfer to be successful.
Q6: Does removing an eSIM from my phone cancel my mobile plan?
No. Removing an eSIM profile from your Samsung Galaxy Z Flip only deletes it from the device. It does not automatically cancel your service contract with your mobile network provider. You must contact your carrier directly to terminate your mobile plan and avoid being charged for services you no longer use.