The Google Pixel 6a supports eSIM on compatible, unlocked models, which makes it a practical phone for installing an iRoamly travel eSIM before a trip. On current Pixel software, the eSIM setup path is inside Settings, then Network & internet, then SIMs; labels can vary slightly by Android version, region, or carrier firmware.
This guide covers both ways to install your iRoamly travel eSIM on a Pixel 6a: scanning the QR code and entering the activation details manually. QR setup is usually fastest when you can open the iRoamly QR code on another screen. Manual setup is useful if the camera cannot scan the code, the QR email is not displaying well, or you need to paste the activation code instead.
Preparations Before Setting Up iRomly eSIM
Connect the Pixel 6a to a stable Wi-Fi network before installing the eSIM.
Confirm the phone is carrier-unlocked and eSIM-capable. Some regional or carrier variants may limit eSIM features.
Keep your iRoamly QR code and manual activation details ready. iRoamly sends the QR code and activation code by email or shows them after purchase.
Do not delete the iRoamly eSIM after installation unless iRoamly support tells you to. Many travel eSIMs cannot simply be reinstalled after removal.
Install the eSIM 1 to 2 days before travel when possible, but check the plan details first. iRoamly validity starts from activation; for many iRoamly travel plans, the validity period starts when the eSIM connects to a supported network.
Check your exact iRoamly plan type. Some plans are data-only, while others may include calls or SMS; do not assume voice or SMS is included unless your plan says so.
Shared Setup Steps
Open Settings, then tap Network & internet. You should see the Pixel network settings page.
On Network & internet, tap SIMs. You should see the SIM settings area for your physical SIM and eSIM profiles.
On the SIMs page, tap Add SIM. The phone should open the setup screen for adding another SIM or eSIM.
Tap Set up an eSIM. The Pixel should move to the eSIM setup flow.
Method 1: Install the iRoamly eSIM by Scanning a QR Code
On the Scan QR code screen, point the Pixel 6a camera at the iRoamly QR code from your order email, iRoamly account, or another device screen. Keep the QR code inside the scanner box until the phone detects it.
When the Pixel shows the iRoamly eSIM download confirmation, review the name, then tap Download. Wait on Wi-Fi until the download finishes.
Method 2: Install the iRoamly eSIM by Manual Entry
Open Settings, tap Network & internet, tap SIMs, tap Add SIM, then tap Set up an eSIM. On the QR screen, tap Enter code manually.
In the Activation code field, enter the manual iRoamly activation information exactly as provided. Pixel manual entry commonly uses one full activation code string, often built from the SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code details supplied by iRoamly, such as LPA:1$SMDP.EXAMPLE$ACTIVATION-CODE. Tap Next.
When the Pixel shows the iRoamly eSIM download confirmation, review the profile name, then tap Download. Keep the phone connected to Wi-Fi until the eSIM finishes downloading.
How to Confirm the iRoamly eSIM Was Installed
Go to Settings > Network & internet > SIMs. Confirm that iRoamly or your travel eSIM label appears in the SIM list and that its switch is turned on or ready.
Tap the iRoamly eSIM row. Confirm Use SIM is turned on. If the profile is still downloading or pending activation, keep Wi-Fi connected and wait a few minutes before trying again.
Set Up the iRoamly eSIM for Travel Data
In Settings > Network & internet > SIMs, tap Mobile data, then choose iRoamly. This makes the travel eSIM the line used for mobile data.
Open the iRoamly SIM settings page, turn on Use SIM, and turn on Roaming if your iRoamly plan or destination requires roaming. Leave your primary SIM selected for calls or SMS only if you want to avoid using it for travel data.
Troubleshooting
If Add SIM or Set up an eSIM is missing, confirm the Pixel 6a is unlocked, updated, connected to Wi-Fi, and not restricted by a carrier or regional variant.
If the QR code has already been used, do not delete and reinstall the eSIM. Contact iRoamly support with your order details.
If mobile data does not work after installation, confirm iRoamly is selected for Mobile data, Use SIM is on, and Roaming is on when required by the destination network.
If activation stays pending, wait until you are in the destination country or connected to a supported network. Many iRoamly plan validity periods begin when the eSIM connects to a supported network.
If calls or SMS do not work on the iRoamly line, check the exact plan details. Many travel eSIM plans are data-only.
If the manual code is rejected, copy the iRoamly manual details again and remove extra spaces. If Pixel shows one Activation code field, use the full code format provided by iRoamly instead of entering the SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code as separate lines.
Conclusion
After installation, the iRoamly eSIM can be managed directly from the Pixel 6a's SIM settings alongside your primary line. This makes it easy to switch data usage, adjust roaming preferences, or temporarily disable the travel eSIM without removing it from the device.
As long as the profile remains installed and your plan is valid, it will be ready whenever you need it. A quick check of your SIM settings before departure can help ensure everything is configured correctly for your trip.