If you recently bought a premium smartphone, you can now replace your physical SIM with an eSIM.
Unlike traditional SIM cards, eSIMs are embedded in your phone and activated digitally.
While not all phone models support eSIM, activating it is now easier than ever.
Here’s a simple guide for Indian telecom users.
Step 1: Check if Your Phone Supports eSIM
Before anything else, make sure your device is compatible:
iPhone: Go to Settings > Cellular > Convert to eSIM.
If this option appears, your iPhone supports eSIM.
Android: Open SIM Manager under Settings.
If you see “Add eSIM,” your device is ready.
You can also check your phone’s specifications on the manufacturer’s website.
Next, confirm that your telecom operator offers eSIM.
All major networks in India support it.
Step 2: Activating Your eSIM
Jio eSIM Activation
Via MyJio App:
Open the app and search for “eSIM.”
Tap Switch to eSIM.
Enter your email ID and verify with OTP.
Find your EID in phone settings, paste it in the app, and proceed.
Receive and submit the OTP sent to your mobile.
Answer an IVR call from +91 2235072222 within 2 hours, or text RECALL to 199 if missed.
Via SMS:
Send GETESIM to 199.
Follow the IVR call instructions and get the QR code via email.
Airtel eSIM Activation
Log in to the Airtel Thanks app.
Tap Upgrade to eSIM under Shortcuts.
Choose This device or Another device.
Enter your 32-digit EID and verify with OTP.
Answer the follow-up call and complete the activation.
Vi (Vodafone Idea) eSIM Activation
Postpaid Users:
Go to the Vi app, tap Help > Raise a Service Request > Activate eSIM.
Enter EID, verify with OTP, and follow the call instructions.
Prepaid & Postpaid via SMS:
Send eSIM <your email> to 199.
Confirm by typing ESIMY and follow the verification call.
BSNL eSIM Activation
Visit the nearest Customer Service Center (CSC).
Carry your Aadhaar for KYC.
The official will help you complete the eSIM process.
Step 3: Installing eSIM on Your Phone
For iPhone:
Open the email with your eSIM QR code or SM-DP+ link.
Go to Settings > Mobile Data > Add eSIM / Add Data Plan.
Scan the QR code using your camera.
Tap Continue > Add Cellular Plan.
Wait a few minutes for activation and signal return.
For Android:
The process is similar: scan the QR code under Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs.
Follow the on-screen instructions to activate.
Tip: Keep your physical SIM inserted until the eSIM is fully activated.
Ensure your phone is connected to Wi-Fi during setup.
Benefits of eSIM
No physical card is needed.
Easy to switch carriers or numbers without visiting a store.
Supports multiple profiles on a single device.
This guide covers all major telecom operators in India, helping you smoothly switch from a physical SIM to a digital eSIM.
