Step-by-Step Tutorial to Install eSIM on iPhone 13

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Written by James Peterson
May 06, 2026 4-min read

As mobile connectivity continues to evolve, eSIM is becoming a more flexible and efficient way to stay connected. Instead of dealing with a physical card, everything can be set up directly on your device with just a few taps.

For iPhone 13 users, the eSIM setup process is already well-optimized and easy to follow. As long as you have the required activation details ready, you can complete the installation in just a few minutes.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to install and activate your iRoamly eSIM step by step.

Preparations Before Setting Up iRomly eSIM

Before starting, ensure you have the following:

  • A stable internet connection (Wi-Fi or cellular)

  • A valid eSIM QR code or manual activation details (SM-DP+ address and activation code) provided by your carrier

  • Your iPhone 13 powered on and unlocked

  • The device updated to the latest iOS version (recommended for compatibility)

Method 1: Install eSIM via QR Code

Step 1: Open Settings

  • Tap the “Settings”

Settings 13

Step 2: Navigate to Cellular Settings

  • Scroll down and tap “Cellular” (On some devices, this may appear as Mobile Service or Mobile Data)

Cellular 13

Step 3: Add a New Cellular Plan

  • Tap “Set Up Cellular” if no cellular plan is installed, or tap “Add Cellular Plan” to add a new line

Set Up Cellular 13

Step 4: Select QR Code Option

  • Tap “Use QR Code”

Use QR Code 13

Step 5: Scan the QR Code

  • Position your iPhone so the QR code appears within the camera frame

Place the QR Code Here 13

  • The device will automatically recognize the code

Step 6: Confirm eSIM Activation

  • When prompted, tap “Continue”

Continue 13

Step 7: Complete Carrier Activation

  • If a confirmation screen appears, tap “Add Cellular Plan”

Step 8: Assign a Label to the eSIM

  • Choose a label such as “Primary”, “Secondary”, or “Work”

  • Tap “Continue”

Step 9: Set Default Line Preferences

Select your preferred default line for:

  • Calls → tap desired line → tap “Continue”

  • Messages → tap desired line → tap “Continue”

  • Cellular Data → tap desired line → tap “Continue”

Method 2: Install eSIM via Manual Input

Step 1: Open Settings

  • Tap “Settings”

Settings 13

Step 2: Go to Cellular Settings

  • Scroll down and tap “Cellular” (On some devices, this may appear as Mobile Service or Mobile Data)

Cellular 13

Step 3: Start eSIM Setup

  • Tap “Set Up Cellular” if no cellular plan is installed, or tap “Add Cellular Plan” to add a new line

Set Up Cellular 13

Step 4: Choose Manual Entry

  • Tap “Enter Details Manually”

Enter Details Manually 13

Step 5: Input Activation Information

  • In the “SM-DP+ Address” field, enter the address provided by your carrier

SM-DP Address 13

  • In the “Activation Code” field, enter the code provided

  • Tap “Next” (top-right corner)

Next 13

Step 6: Wait for Activation

  • The iPhone will attempt to connect to the carrier and activate the eSIM

Step 7: Confirm Plan Addition

  • When prompted, tap “Add Cellular Plan”

Step 8: Label the eSIM

  • Select a label (e.g., “Business”, “Travel”)

  • Tap “Continue”

Step 9: Configure Default Line Settings

  • Choose default line for calls → tap selection → tap “Continue”

  • Choose default line for messages → tap selection → tap “Continue”

  • Choose default line for cellular data → tap selection → tap “Continue”

How to Confirm Successful eSIM Installation

Check Cellular Plans

  • Go to Settings → Cellular (On some devices, this may appear as Mobile Service or Mobile Data)

Cellular 13

  • Confirm that the new eSIM plan appears under SIMs or Cellular Plans

Verify Network Connection

  • Look at the top-right corner of the screen

  • Confirm signal bars are visible for the new line

Test Connectivity

  • Make a phone call or send a text message

Note: Some eSIM plans may not include voice calling support, so this feature might not be available depending on your plan.

  • Open Safari and load a webpage using cellular data (disable Wi-Fi if necessary)

Check Line Status

  • In Settings → Cellular (On some devices, this may appear as Mobile Service or Mobile Data), tap the newly added plan

  • Ensure Turn On This Line is enabled (toggle should be green)

Conclusion

Once you’ve completed the steps above, your iRoamly eSIM should be up and running. Compared to traditional methods, eSIM offers a more streamlined setup experience with fewer physical steps involved.

You can easily manage your line, switch preferences, or check status anytime in your device settings. After confirming that your connection is active, you’re all set to start using your eSIM.