Installing an eSIM on your iPhone is quick and simple — it takes less than 5 minutes and you don’t need any technical knowledge. Whether you’re setting up a Go Simly travel eSIM before a holiday or adding a second data line, this guide walks you through every step.
Before You Start — What You Need
✅ An eSIM-compatible iPhone — iPhone XS, XR, or any model released after 2018
✅ An unlocked phone — your iPhone must not be locked to a single carrier
✅ A Wi-Fi connection — you need internet to download the eSIM profile
✅ Your QR code — sent to your email after purchasing from Go Simly
✅ iOS 12.1 or later — go to Settings → General → About to check your version
Step-by-Step: Install Your eSIM on iPhone
Step 1: Open Settings
Open the Settings app on your iPhone. Tap Mobile Data (or Cellular if your phone is set to US English).
Step 2: Add eSIM
Tap Add eSIM or Add Cellular Plan. If you don’t see this option, your iPhone may be locked to a carrier or not eSIM-compatible.
Step 3: Scan QR Code
Tap Use QR Code. Your camera will open. Point it at the QR code from your Go Simly email. If you only have one device, you can open the email, screenshot the QR code, then tap Open from Photos instead.
Step 4: Confirm & Add
Your iPhone will show the new eSIM details. Tap Add Cellular Plan or Continue to confirm. The eSIM profile will download — this takes a few seconds.
Step 5: Label Your eSIM
iPhone will ask you to label the new line. Choose Travel or type a custom name like “Go Simly” so you can easily identify it later.
Step 6: Set as Data Line
When asked which line to use for mobile data, select your Go Simly eSIM. Keep your primary SIM for calls and texts.
Step 7: Enable Data Roaming
Go to Settings → Mobile Data → your Go Simly eSIM and toggle on Data Roaming. This is essential — without it, the eSIM won’t connect when you arrive at your destination.
Troubleshooting — Common Issues
“Add eSIM” option doesn’t appear
Your iPhone may be carrier-locked. Contact your carrier to request an unlock, or check by going to Settings → General → About and looking for “Carrier Lock: No SIM restrictions.”
QR code won’t scan
Make sure your screen brightness is up and the QR code is clear. If scanning from a screen, try zooming in. You can also screenshot the QR code and use the “Open from Photos” option.
eSIM installed but no data
Check three things: (1) Data Roaming is turned ON for the eSIM line, (2) the eSIM is selected as your Mobile Data line, and (3) you’re in a country covered by the plan. If you set it up before travel, data will activate when you arrive.
Still not working?
Restart your iPhone. If the issue persists, contact Go Simly support — we’re available 24/7.
eSIM-Compatible iPhones
iPhone 16 / 16 Plus / 16 Pro / 16 Pro Max
iPhone 15 / 15 Plus / 15 Pro / 15 Pro Max
iPhone 14 / 14 Plus / 14 Pro / 14 Pro Max
iPhone 13 / 13 Mini / 13 Pro / 13 Pro Max
iPhone 12 / 12 Mini / 12 Pro / 12 Pro Max
iPhone 11 / 11 Pro / 11 Pro Max
iPhone XS / XS Max / XR
iPhone SE (2nd generation and later)
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