How to Install eSIM on iPhone XS (QR Code & Manual Method)

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Written by James Peterson
May 06, 2026 3-min read

Whether you're traveling abroad, switching networks temporarily, or simply looking for a more convenient way to stay connected, eSIM offers a lightweight and flexible solution.

You don’t need to insert or replace any physical cards—just follow a few steps in your phone’s settings.

On an iPhone XS, the setup can be completed in minutes. Below, we’ll guide 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 XS 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.

Settings XS

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

Cellular XS

Step 2: Add a Cellular Plan

  • Tap Add Cellular Plan.

Add Cellular Plan XS

Step 3: Scan the QR Code

  • The camera interface will open automatically.

  • Position your iPhone so the QR code is visible within the frame.

Place the QR Code Here XS

  • Wait for the phone to recognize the code.

Step 4: Confirm Plan Addition

  • When prompted, tap Add Cellular Plan.

Step 5: Label the Plan

  • Select a label for the eSIM (e.g., Primary, Secondary, Travel).

  • Tap Continue.

Step 6: Configure Default Line Settings

Choose which line to use as:

  • Default Line → tap your preferred option → tap Continue

  • iMessage & FaceTime Line → select a line → tap Continue

  • Cellular Data Line → select a line → tap Continue

Method 2: Install eSIM via Manual Input

Step 1: Open Cellular Settings

  • Tap Settings.

Settings XS

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

Cellular XS

Step 2: Add a Cellular Plan

  • Tap Add Cellular Plan.

Add Cellular Plan XS

Step 3: Select Manual Entry Option

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

Enter Details Manually XS

Step 4: Input Carrier Information

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

  • Enter the Activation Code.

  • If prompted, enter the Confirmation Code.

SM-DP Address XS

Step 5: Activate the Plan

  • Tap Next.

Next XS

  • Wait while the iPhone connects to the carrier server.

  • When prompted, tap Add Cellular Plan.

Step 6: Label the Plan

  • Assign a label (e.g., Business, Personal).

  • Tap Continue.

Step 7: Configure Default Line Settings

Select preferences for:

  • Default Line → tap selection → tap Continue

  • iMessage & FaceTime → tap selection → tap Continue

  • Cellular Data → tap selection → tap Continue

How to Confirm Successful eSIM Installation

Step 1: Verify in Cellular Settings

  • Open Settings.

Settings XS

  • Tap Cellular (This option may appear as “Mobile Service” or “Mobile Data” depending on system language or region).

Cellular XS

  • Confirm that a new plan appears under Cellular Plans.

Step 2: Check Signal Status

  • Look at the top-right corner of the screen.

  • Verify that signal bars appear for the newly added line.

Step 3: Test Connectivity

  • Open Safari.

  • Attempt to load a webpage using the eSIM line (disable Wi-Fi if needed to test cellular data).

Step 4: Confirm Line Activation

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

  • Ensure the toggle for Turn On This Line is enabled.

Conclusion

Whether you install your eSIM by scanning a QR code or entering the details manually, the activation process is typically quick as long as the information is entered correctly.

Compared to traditional methods, eSIM offers a more efficient and streamlined approach to managing connectivity. Once installed, you can easily view and manage your cellular plan directly within your device settings.