How do I install an eSIM on my phone?
Installing an A.R.I.A Mobile eSIM takes about a minute over Wi-Fi. Open the install email or order page on a second screen, then on your phone go to Settings → Mobile Data → Add eSIM (iOS) or Settings → Connections → SIM manager → Add eSIM (Android), scan the QR code, name the plan and you're done. Enable data roaming on the new line so it can connect abroad.
Installing an A.R.I.A Mobile eSIM takes about a minute over Wi-Fi. Open the install email or order page on a second screen, then on your phone go to Settings → Mobile Data → Add eSIM (iOS) or Settings → Connections → SIM manager → Add eSIM (Android), scan the QR code, name the plan and you're done. Enable data roaming on the new line so it can connect abroad.
On iPhone (iOS 16+)
1. Open the QR code on a second screen (laptop, partner's phone, printed copy). 2. On your iPhone: Settings → Mobile Data → Add eSIM → Use QR Code. 3. Point the camera at the QR. 4. Tap Continue → Add Mobile Plan. 5. Label the plan (e.g. "Dubai 7 days"). 6. Choose your default line for calls/SMS (keep your UK line as default). 7. Set Mobile Data to use the travel eSIM. 8. Important: Tap the travel eSIM → turn Data Roaming ON.
On Android (Samsung, Pixel, etc.)
1. Open the QR code on a second screen. 2. Settings → Connections → SIM manager → Add eSIM. 3. Tap Scan QR code from service provider. 4. Scan, confirm download, name the plan. 5. Set the eSIM as preferred for mobile data. 6. Turn on Data roaming for the travel eSIM.
Install before you fly
Do all of this on UK Wi-Fi before your trip. The eSIM will download and sit dormant on your phone. The moment you land, switch on the line in Settings — no airport hunt for Wi-Fi.
People also ask
- What is an eSIM?
An eSIM is a digital SIM card built into your phone. Instead of inserting a plastic SIM, you scan a QR code or tap a link and a mobile plan is downloaded onto a secure chip inside the device. It takes about a minute and works alongside your normal SIM, so you can keep your home number while using a travel data plan abroad.
- How does an eSIM work?
When you buy an eSIM you receive a QR code or activation link. Your phone reads it, downloads a mobile profile onto its built-in eSIM chip, and connects to the local network the carrier has roaming agreements with. From that point it behaves exactly like a physical SIM — except you can install several profiles and switch between them in Settings.
- Can I have two eSIMs active at the same time?
Yes. Modern iPhones (XS and later) and most flagship Androids let you store many eSIM profiles and have two active at once — typically your home line plus a travel eSIM. Calls and texts route through whichever line you choose as default, while data can be set to use the cheaper travel eSIM automatically.
- Is my phone eSIM compatible?
Almost every flagship phone released since late 2018 supports eSIM. That includes all iPhones from XS onward, Google Pixel 3 and later, and Samsung Galaxy S20-and-newer plus the Z Fold and Z Flip ranges. The other requirement is that the phone is unlocked to other networks — most UK contract phones are unlocked by default since 2021.