How to Install eSIM on iPad 7th Gen & Later (Step-by-Step)

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Written by James Peterson
May 29, 2026 3-min read

As connectivity technology continues to evolve, eSIM is becoming a more efficient and flexible way to stay online.

Instead of using a physical card, eSIM allows you to configure your network digitally, making it easier to set up and manage connections wherever you are.

For iPad 7th Generation and later models, eSIM support is already built into the system, allowing you to install and activate a plan directly from your device.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the full process of installing an iRoamly eSIM, from preparation to activation, so you can get connected quickly and smoothly.

Preparations Before Setting Up iRomly eSIM

Before starting, ensure you have the following:

  • A stable internet connection (Wi-Fi recommended)

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

  • Your iPad powered on and unlocked

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

Demo device used in this guide: iPad (11th generation, 2025)

Method 1: Install eSIM via QR Code Scanning

Step 1: Open Settings

  • Tap Settings on the iPad Home Screen

Settings iPad

Step 2: Navigate to Cellular Settings

  • Tap Mobile Data (On some devices or iPadOS versions, this may appear as “Cellular Data.”)

Mobile Data iPad

Step 3: Select QR Code Option

  • Tap Use QR Code

Use QR Code iPad

Step 4: Scan the QR Code

  • Position the iPad camera over the QR code provided by your carrier

Place the QR Code iPad

  • Wait for the device to recognize the code automatically

Step 5: Confirm Plan Addition

  • When prompted, tap Add Cellular Plan

Step 6: Label the Plan (Optional but Recommended)

  • Choose a label (e.g., “Primary”, “Travel”, “Work”)

  • Tap Continue

Step 7: Complete Activation

  • Wait while the iPad activates the eSIM

  • Once complete, tap Done

Method 2: Install eSIM via Manual Input

Step 1: Open Settings

  • Tap Settings

Settings iPad

Step 2: Navigate to Cellular Settings

  • Mobile Data (On some devices or iPadOS versions, this may appear as “Cellular Data.”)

Mobile Data iPad

Step 3: Select Manual Entry

  • Tap Enter Details Manually

Enter Details Manually iPad

Step 4: Enter Activation Details

  • In the SM-DP+ Address field, type the address provided by your carrier

  • In the Activation Code field, enter the code exactly as provided

  • If prompted, enter the Confirmation Code

SM-DP Address iPad

Step 5: Proceed with Installation

  • Tap Next

Next iPad

Step 6: Confirm Plan Addition

  • Tap Add Cellular Plan

Step 7: Label the Plan

  • Assign a label to the plan

  • Tap Continue

Step 8: Complete Activation

  • Wait for the iPad to finish provisioning the eSIM

  • Tap Done once activation completes

How to Confirm Successful eSIM Installation

Check Cellular Plan Visibility

  • Go to Settings → Mobile Data (On some devices or iPadOS versions, this may appear as “Cellular Data.”)

Mobile Data iPad

  • Confirm your new plan appears under Cellular Plans

Verify Signal and Connectivity

  • Look for signal bars in the top-right status bar

  • Open Safari and load a webpage to confirm data connectivity

Check Plan Status

  • Tap the newly added plan under Mobile Data (On some devices or iPadOS versions, this may appear as “Cellular Data.”)

  • Ensure the status shows Active or Connected

Optional: Set Default Data Line

  • In Settings → Cellular Data, tap Mobile Data (On some devices or iPadOS versions, this may appear as “Cellular Data.”)

  • Select the newly installed eSIM as the active data line

Conclusion

With the setup complete, your iPad is now ready to use eSIM for everyday connectivity. The entire process is built into the system, allowing you to manage network settings directly without relying on any physical components.

This makes it easier to stay organized and handle changes when needed. Once you’re familiar with these steps, future installations, updates, or plan switches can be completed quickly with minimal effort.