Install eSIM on iPhone XR: Step-by-Step Setup Guide

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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 efficient and convenient option for many users. Unlike traditional SIM cards, it removes the need for physical handling and simplifies the setup process.

For iPhone XR users, adding an eSIM can be done directly within the device as long as the necessary requirements are met.

If you already have your iRoamly eSIM details ready, this guide will walk you through each step of installation and activation, making the process clear and easy to follow—even if you're doing it for the first time.

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 XR 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 Cellular Settings

  • Tap Settings on the Home screen

Settings XR

  • Scroll down and tap Cellular (This option may appear as “Mobile Service” or “Mobile Data” depending on system language or region)

Cellular XR

Step 2: Add a New Cellular Plan

  • Tap Add Cellular Plan

Add Cellular Plan XR

Step 3: Scan the QR Code

  • The camera interface will open automatically

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

Place the QR Code Here XR

  • Wait for the device to recognize the code

Step 4: Confirm Plan Addition

  • When prompted, tap Add Cellular Plan

Step 5: Label the eSIM Line

  • Select a label (e.g., Primary, Secondary, Work, Travel)

  • Tap Continue

Step 6: Set Default Line Preferences

Choose your Default Line for calls and messages, tap the preferred line, then tap Continue

Select which line to use for iMessage & FaceTime, then tap Continue

Choose a line for Cellular Data, then tap Continue

Method 2: Install eSIM via Manual Input

Step 1: Open Cellular Settings

  • Tap Settings

Settings XR

  • Scroll down and tap Cellular (This option may appear as “Mobile Service” or “Mobile Data” depending on system language or region)

Cellular XR

Step 2: Start eSIM Setup

  • Tap Add Cellular Plan

Add Cellular Plan XR

Step 3: Choose Manual Entry

  • At the bottom of the screen, tap Enter Details Manually

Enter Details Manually XR

Step 4: Input Activation Information

Tap the SM-DP+ Address field

  • Enter the address exactly as provided by your carrier

Tap the Activation Code field

  • Enter the code precisely (case-sensitive)

If provided, enter the Confirmation Code

SM-DP Address XR

  • Tap Next (top-right corner)

Next XR

Step 5: Activate the Plan

  • Wait while the iPhone verifies and downloads the eSIM profile

  • When prompted, tap Add Cellular Plan

Step 6: Label the eSIM Line

  • Choose a label (e.g., Business, Secondary)

  • Tap Continue

Step 7: Configure Usage Preferences

  • Select default line for calls → tap Continue

  • Select line for iMessage & FaceTime → tap Continue

  • Select line for cellular data → tap Continue

How to Confirm Successful eSIM Installation

Step 1: Check Cellular Plans

  • Go to Settings → Cellular (This option may appear as “Mobile Service” or “Mobile Data” depending on system language or region)

Cellular XR

  • Confirm that a new plan appears under Cellular Plans

Step 2: Verify Signal and Status

  • Look at the status bar (top-right corner)

  • Ensure you see signal bars for the new line or dual signal indicators

Step 3: Confirm Line Details

  • Tap the newly added plan under Cellular Plans

Verify:

  • Carrier name

  • Line status shows “On”

Step 4: Test Connectivity

  • Make a call or send a message using the new line

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

Alternatively, test mobile data:

  • Go to Settings → Cellular (This option may appear as “Mobile Service” or “Mobile Data” depending on system language or region) → Cellular Data

  • Ensure the correct line is selected

Conclusion

By completing the setup, you’ve experienced how straightforward it is to get connected using an eSIM.

The entire process—from adding the plan to activating it—can be done directly on your device without handling any physical components.

This not only saves time but also reduces the chances of setup issues. Overall, eSIM provides a more efficient and flexible way to manage your mobile connection, especially once you become familiar with the process.