eSIM iPhone Troubleshooting

Most issues are related to trying eSIM for the first time and possibly missing a step during installation or activation. Always double-check if roaming and mobile data are enabled. Here’s a detailed explanation of each error.

Enable All Necessary Permissions and Disable Certain Settings

For proper eSIM functionality on your device, make sure to enable the following permissions and settings:

1. Enable Mobile Data: Go to Settings → Cellular (or Mobile Data) → Mobile Data → Turn on This Line.

2. Enable Data Roaming: Go to Settings → Cellular (or Mobile Data) → Cellular Data Options (or Mobile Data Options) → Mobile Data → Turn on Data Roaming.

Partner option

3. Disable Airplane Mode: Go to Settings → Airplane Mode → Turn off Airplane Mode.

4. Enable Location Services: Go to Settings → Privacy → Location Services → Turn on Location Services.

Issues During eSIM Activation

  • 1. Stable Wi-Fi Required: Ensure you have a stable Wi-Fi connection during eSIM activation.
  • 2. Check Necessary Permissions: Make sure all required permissions are enabled (see above).
  • 3. Insufficient Device Storage: Ensure there is enough free storage on your device (typically 1-2 MB).
  • 4. Carrier-locked Device: If your device is carrier-locked (e.g., purchased from Vodafone, AT&T, Verizon), it will only work with that carrier's plans. Follow the unlock instructions below.
  • 5. Incorrect Date and Time Settings: Make sure your date and time settings are correct. eSIM activation and operation require synchronization with carrier servers.
  • 6. eSIM Profile Limitations: Devices support up to 10 eSIM profiles. Ensure you haven't reached this limit.
 

How to Unlock Your Smartphone for eSIM Activation

1. Get an Unlock Code: Contact the carrier from which you purchased your device and request an unlock code. You may need your IMEI number and account information. You can find the IMEI number by going to Settings → General → About → IMEI.

iPhone IMEI

2. Enter the Unlock Code: Insert a SIM card from a different carrier into the device. When prompted, enter the unlock code provided by your carrier.

 

Troubleshooting Tips and Simple Solutions

1. Airplane Mode Enabled: Disable Airplane Mode if it's enabled.

2. Conflict Between Physical SIM and eSIM: Temporarily remove the physical SIM card to resolve conflicts.

3. Mobile Internet Not Enabled: Go to Settings → Cellular (or Mobile Data) → Turn on Cellular Data (or Mobile Data).

Mobile Internet

4. Check eSIM Profile: Ensure the eSIM profile is selected for cellular data usage: Settings → Cellular (or Mobile Data) → Cellular Data Options (or Mobile Data Options) → Select TooSIM.

eSIM Profile

5. Enable Data Roaming: Go to Settings → Cellular (or Mobile Data) → Cellular Data Options (or Mobile Data Options) → Mobile Data → Turn on Data Roaming.

6. Enable Data Transmission: Ensure 'Turn on This Line' is enabled.

Mobile Data

 

eSIM Not Working After Installation

If eSIM does not work after installation, despite your device supporting eSIM:

  • 1. Check iOS Version: Ensure your iPhone is running the latest version of iOS. The minimum version for eSIM support is iOS 12.1.

  • 2. Restart Your Device: Restart your iPhone or toggle Airplane Mode on and off. Some iPhone models require this step to apply changes.
  • 3. Check All Necessary Permissions: Verify that all necessary permissions and settings are enabled (see above).
  • 4. Disable VPN or Antivirus: VPN or antivirus software might interfere with eSIM connectivity. Disable them temporarily, restart your device, and check eSIM functionality.
  • 5. Carrier and eSIM Compatibility: Ensure the eSIM you purchased matches the carrier settings on your device. If there is a mismatch, contact support for a replacement eSIM.
  • 6. Background Data Services: Make sure background data services are not blocked (see above for how to unblock).
  • 7. Power Saving Mode: Power saving mode can limit mobile data usage, affecting eSIM. Disable power saving mode if necessary.
  • 8. Incompatible Applications: Some applications, especially those managing network connections like proxies, VPNs, or antivirus software, may be incompatible with eSIM. Disable or uninstall these apps and check eSIM functionality.
  • 9. Battery Issues: Battery problems, such as overheating or low charge, can affect eSIM performance.
  • 10. App or Service Conflicts: Conflicts between apps or services can hinder eSIM functionality. Disable or uninstall suspicious or unnecessary apps and check eSIM performance.
  • 11. Out of Coverage Area: Ensure the eSIM you purchased is for the country you are currently in. eSIMs won't work outside their designated coverage areas.
 

Other Issues

1. Call Issues After eSIM Installation: If calls do not work after eSIM installation and you need to revert to your physical SIM for voice calls: Go to Settings → Cellular (or Mobile Data) → Cellular Data Options (or Mobile Data Options) → Default Voice Line → Select your physical SIM → Select 'Primary'.

Default Voice Line