The way we connect while traveling has changed dramatically in recent years. No more waiting in line for a local SIM, no more fumbling with adapters, and no more worrying about losing tiny plastic cards. For many travelers, eSIM technology has become the go-to solution—especially for Android users with a Samsung Galaxy smartphone.
Usually, installing an eSIM is quick and automatic. You scan a QR code or click a link, and within seconds, you're online. But what if the process doesn’t complete on its own? What if, instead of a QR code, you receive something called an activation code?
If you've ever been asked to install an eSIM manually on your Samsung Galaxy, you're not alone. Here's why this happens—and how to handle it smoothly.
The Basics: What Makes eSIM So Practical?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is built directly into your phone. It allows you to connect to mobile networks without inserting any physical card. You can store multiple plans on one device and switch between them without swapping anything out—ideal for travel, dual-SIM usage, or simply staying flexible.
Samsung Galaxy devices with Android offer full support for eSIM, and most users can activate their eSIM in just a few taps. No tools. No waiting. And usually, no manual steps.
When Manual Setup Might Be Needed
While the setup process is typically automatic, there are a few scenarios where your Samsung Galaxy might ask you to enter the eSIM information manually. This is totally normal—and nothing to worry about.
Here are common reasons:
You received your eSIM activation details by email or in an app, rather than scanning a QR code
Your device is running a slightly older version of Android and needs manual input
You’re adding the eSIM while already abroad and your device skips auto-detection
In these cases, a quick manual setup solves everything.
Is My Samsung Galaxy eSIM-Ready?
Not all Samsung models support eSIM, especially older or carrier-specific devices. To check if yours is compatible:
Open Settings
Tap Connections
Choose SIM card manager
Look for the option “Add mobile plan” or “Add eSIM”
If the option is there, you’re good to go. You’ll also need:
A stable Wi-Fi connection
An unlocked device (not tied to one mobile provider)
Most newer models like Galaxy S22, S23, S24, Fold and Flip series are fully compatible with eSIM.
Finishing Setup and Enabling Mobile Data
After your eSIM is installed, make sure it’s ready for use:
Go to Settings → Connections → Mobile networks
Tap on Data Roaming and make sure it’s enabled
In SIM card manager, assign the eSIM as your preferred mobile data line if needed
You can also rename the profile (e.g., “Travel eSIM”) to keep things organized.
Troubleshooting: eSIM Installed But No Internet?
So, you've completed the steps to install and activate your eSIM on your Samsung Galaxy—but you're still not connected to the internet? Don't panic. While most Android phones configure everything automatically, some models need a bit of manual fine-tuning after the eSIM setup is done.
This is especially true for mobile data settings and APN configuration.
First, Try These Quick Fixes:
Restart your phone
Ensure mobile data is turned ON
Verify that your eSIM is the active data line (in SIM card manager)
Make sure data roaming is enabled (in Mobile networks)
If you're still having issues, it’s time to manually configure the Access Point Name (APN)—a key setting that tells your phone how to connect to the internet via the mobile network.
Manual APN Configuration (Android / Samsung Galaxy) (very important!)
Some devices require a manual APN setup to ensure the eSIM connection works correctly. Here's how to do it:
Open Settings
Tap on Connections
Select Mobile networks
Tap on Access Point Names
Tap + or Add (make sure your eSIM is selected)
In the Name field, enter:
truphone.comIn the APN field, also enter:
truphone.comSet APN type to:
default,dunLeave all other fields empty
Tap the three-dot menu in the top-right corner and select Save
After saving, make sure this new APN profile is selected as the active one.
This process ensures your device knows exactly how to route your data connection, which is crucial if automatic settings weren't applied correctly during eSIM activation.
Need to Switch Back or Add Another eSIM?
One of the best features of eSIM is flexibility. You can store multiple eSIM profiles on your device, and switch between them at any time.
To do this:
Go to SIM card manager
Tap the plan you want to activate
Toggle it on or off
This makes travel with eSIM on Samsung Galaxy incredibly convenient—no more swapping cards between trips.
Conclusion: Manual Setup Is Just Another Path to Instant Connectivity
In most cases, your eSIM on Samsung Galaxy will install automatically. But if you're asked to manually install and activate an eSIM, the process is straightforward and takes just a few minutes. Whether you're traveling or just exploring the possibilities of digital SIMs, knowing how to handle both automatic and manual setup ensures you’re always ready to connect.
With Android, Samsung Galaxy, and a bit of guidance, installing an eSIM manually becomes a simple step in enjoying seamless, global connectivity.
