How to activate eSIM on iPhone

A SIM card is what connects your mobile phone to a cellular network, enabling you to make calls, send messages, and use mobile data on the go. For years, this meant using a physical SIM card, but as technology has evolved, eSIMs (embedded SIMs) have started to take centre stage. An eSIM is a digital SIM that’s built directly into your device, allowing it to connect to the network without the need for a physical card. This smart upgrade brings several benefits, from the ease of switching between SIMs to managing multiple plans on a single device, all while freeing up space inside your phone. If you own an iPhone that supports eSIM, activating it is a straightforward process that can open up more flexible and convenient connectivity options.

Steps to activate eSIM in iPhone (Vi App) (for postpaid only)

Before you activate eSIM on your iPhone, a few steps should be followed. Here is a step-by- step guide to help you activate Vi eSIM on your iPhone.

• Step 1: Initiate Request

  Open the Vi app > Login > Go to Help > Raise a Service Request > Activate eSIM.

• Step 2: Enter EID

  Choose device (same or other) > Enter 32-digit EID > Refer to FAQs if needed Ensure the correct EID to avoid activation failure.

• Step 3: Verify OTP

  Enter the OTP sent to your registered mobile number.

• Step 4: Download Profile

  After 15 mins, download eSIM via:

  1. Notification on device, or
  2. QR code on registered email
   

  Activate eSIM, remove physical SIM, restart device.

• Step 5: Availability

  Vi eSIM is not available in HP, JK, OR, NE, and Assam.

Steps to activate eSIM in iPhone (SMS) (for prepaid & postpaid)

• Step 1: Verify Email ID

  Ensure your registered email ID is active, as the activation QR will be sent here.

• Step 2: Enter EID

  Find and note your 32-digit EID from device settings. Ensure the EID is correct to avoid activation failure.

• Step 3: Verify Identity

  Enter the OTP sent to your Vi number.

• Step 4: Send SMS & Confirm

  From your Vi number, send:

  eSIM <EID> <Device Type> <Email ID> (Use 1 for iOS, 2 for Android) Example:

  eSIM 89049032000001012345678912345678 1 myemail@example.com Then, reply:

  eSIM Y to 199 You’ll get:

  • Activation QR via email & SMS
  • IVR call for final confirmation
  • Steps to install your eSIM
• Step 5: Device Eligibility

  Vi eSIM works on eSIM-supported handsets only. (Refer to FAQs for supported devices.)

• Step 6: Availability

  Vi eSIM is not available in HP, JK, OR, NE, and Assam.

These are the iPhone models that have eSIM support: iPhone XR, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max, iPhone SE 2 (2020), iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max, iPhone 13, iPhone 13 Mini, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max, iPhone SE 3 (2022), iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max, iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max, iPhone 16e, iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, iPhone Air.

Troubleshooting Tips for Activating eSIM in iPhone

• Restart iPhone: If the eSIM activation is not working, try restarting your iPhone.
• Update iOS: Make sure your iPhone is running the latest version of iOS.
• Contact Vi: If you encounter issues, contact Vi customer care for further assistance.

Follow these steps to conveniently activate Vi eSIM on your iPhone!

If you found this article insightful, you may want to explore more about eSIM technology. Learn What is an eSIM and How Does eSIM Work? to understand the basics, discover How to Buy eSIM Online in India? for practical purchasing tips.These resources will help you stay informed and make the most of your eSIM experience.