What's inside:
Welcome to “Google Pixel and eSIM: A Traveller’s Guide,” where we turn the latest travel tech into your friendly travel companion. This isn’t just a guide; it’s your backstage pass to the world, making every corner of the globe your local hangout. In the first act, we reveal how to activate your Google Pixel eSIM, unlocking seamless connectivity, no matter where you land.
So, pack your bags and power up your Pixel. With our guide, you’ll be the maestro of mobile connectivity, orchestrating a symphony of seamless communication wherever you roam.
Chapter 01:
- How to Activate eSIM on Google Pixel?
- Preparing Your Google Pixel for eSIM Activation
- Installing Your eSIM: The QR Code Method
- Connecting Your eSIM (upon arrival)
- Manual eSIM Installation for Google Pixel
Chapter 01
How to Activate eSIM on Google Pixel?
Let’s dive into how you can activate your Google Pixel eSIM, so you’re always just a tap away from home, no matter where your journey takes you.
Back in 2017, Google introduced the Pixel 2, pioneering eSIM technology in smartphones. Fast forward to the latest Google Pixel series that aren’t just smart; they're travel-savvy. With features like long battery life and dual eSIM support, they are designed for the globetrotter. Imagine capturing the Northern Lights with its 50-megapixel camera or navigating through an afternoon monsoon in Asia with its robust water resistance—all while enjoying a battery life that always keeps up with your travels.
Preparing Your Google Pixel for eSIM Activation
Before you jet off, it’s wise to install your eSIM while still in the comfort of your home country. By doing this, you avoid issues associated with unreliable or unsecured Wi-Fi networks when travelling overseas. Kickstart this adventure by ensuring your Google Pixel is eSIM-ready here. Then, follow our step by step guide designed for the Google Pixel 8 running on Android 14, but keep in mind that the steps may have slight variations depending on your specific Pixel model and operating system version.
Begin by opening our eSimmer email that has the QR code. You can either save the QR code image or capture a screenshot, and then transfer the code to a second device. If you have access to a printer, printing the QR code is another viable option.
Installing Your eSIM: The QR Code Method
To start the eSIM install process, open Settings > Select “Network and Internet” > Tap “SIMs” > Tap “Add SIM”
💡In most cases, an eSIM QR code can only be installed once. You should not cancel the installation process once started.
Select "Download a SIM instead" > Tap “Next”.
Please note that your Android OS will automatically label your new travel eSIM with a default name. The likely name will be “Connect eSIM”, alternatively you may see a name “eSIM 1” or “eSIM 2”. The names are just labels not fixed and you can customise your SIMs by relabelling them. If you are using eSIMs for travel regularly, it's recommended that you name it with a custom label. This way it's easy to spot which eSIM is for which destination.
Connecting Your eSIM (upon arrival)
Once you’ve landed, now is the time to activate your eSIM and switch your mobile data to your travel eSIM.Return to “SIMs” screen > Select “Connect eSIM” > Toggle the "Use SIM" option ON.
For your travel eSIM toggle “Mobile Data” ON and “Roaming” ON.
Ensure mobile data for your home number SIM 1 is turned OFF and “Switch Mobile Data Automatically” is turned OFF.
Turning ON your travel eSIM at your destination will automatically connect you to the local network, activating your data plan to start from that day.
Manual eSIM Installation for Google Pixel
For manual eSIM installation instructions on your Google Pixel device follow the steps below:
Select “Need help?” (located bottom, left)
Tap “Enter it manually”
Enter “SM-DP + Server” and “Activation code” and tap continue to proceed with the install steps.
To be able to manually install the eSIM, you will need your "SM-DP + Server” and "Activation code" provided in our eSimmer email.
You must enter in the format of 1$ SM-DP + Server then $, followed by the Activation code.
Example of format as follows - 1$consumer.e-sim.global$TB60280314121229AH9705DB
Refer to the visual guide below.
When to Install Your eSIM?
For the smoothest travel experience, try to install your eSIM before you depart. This way, you can activate it as soon as you land at your destination by connecting to a local network. However, if you're in a rush, you can still install and activate your eSIM after arrival, as long as you have stable Wi-Fi.
With your eSIM activated, your Google Pixel is not just ready for adventure; it's your companion in a world where staying connected is easier than ever. Pack your bags, power up your Pixel, and explore a world where you can share every moment with a simple touch. Bon voyage!
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I have an older Google Pixel model?
The eSIM activation process is similar for older Pixel models with slight variations depending on the specific model and OS version. The overall concept of installing an eSIM via a QR code (or manually) and connecting upon arrival still apply, but you may need to check the exact menu paths and settings on your device.
Can I use multiple eSIMs on my Google Pixel?
The latest Google Pixel series supports dual eSIM functionality. This means you can have your home/primary SIM and an additional eSIM for travel or other purposes installed simultaneously on your Pixel device, allowing you to switch between them easily.
How do I disable the eSIM after travel?
To disable the eSIM after your trip, you can go to the "SIMs" screen in your Pixel's settings, select the travel eSIM (likely named "Connect eSIM" or similar), and turn off the "Use SIM" option. This will deactivate the eSIM's cellular data connection while keeping it installed for potential future use.
