It can be frustrating when you're ready to set up your eSIM and the QR code just won't scan. This guide will help you troubleshoot common QR scanning issues and provide clear steps for manual eSIM installation if scanning isn't an option.

Quick checks for QR code scanning

Before proceeding to manual installation, try these common fixes for QR code scanning problems:

• Good Lighting: Ensure the QR code is well-lit and the surface is flat. Avoid glare or shadows.
• Clear QR Code: Make sure the QR code image itself is sharp and not blurry or pixelated.
• Camera Focus: Allow your device's camera a moment to focus properly on the QR code.
• Optimal Distance: Try moving your phone slightly closer to or further from the QR code.
• Clean Camera Lens: A smudged or dirty camera lens is a common culprit. Wipe it gently with a soft cloth.
• Correct Scanning App:
  • iOS (iPhone/iPad): Use the built-in Camera app. Simply open the Camera and point it at the QR code. You can also use the Code Scanner, accessible from the Control Center.
  • Android: Most Android phones can scan QR codes directly with their native Camera app. Alternatively, Google Lens (often integrated into the camera or Google Assistant) or a dedicated QR scanner icon in your Quick Settings panel can be used.
• Screen Source: If the QR code is displayed on another screen (e.g., a computer monitor), ensure that screen is clean, sufficiently bright, and has no screen protectors that might distort the image.

If you've tried these tips and the QR code still isn't recognized, you can easily install your GitSim eSIM using the manual setup details.

How to install your eSIM manually

Manual installation involves entering your eSIM's details directly into your device settings.

1. Locate your manual installation details

First, you'll need to retrieve the specific information for your eSIM:

1. Log in to your GitSim account, either on our website or through the GitSim mobile app.
2. Navigate to the "My eSIMs" section.
3. Select the eSIM profile you wish to install.
4. Look for an option labeled "Install eSIM". Click on "Detailed Instructions" for more information.
5. You will find the following details:
   • SM-DP+ Address
   • Activation Code

2. Manual installation on an iOS device (iPhone/iPad)

Follow these steps to manually add your GitSim eSIM to an iPhone or iPad:

1. Open the Settings app on your device.
2. Tap on Cellular (or Mobile Data on some older iOS versions).
3. Tap Add eSIM (or Add Cellular Plan).
4. Your device will likely prompt you to scan a QR code. Look for an option at the bottom of the screen that says Enter Details Manually and tap it.
5. You will be asked to input the details you obtained from your GitSim account:
   • SM-DP+ Address
   • Activation Code
6. Carefully enter the information and tap Next. Follow any on-screen prompts to complete the eSIM activation process.
7. After the eSIM is added, ensure it's turned on:
   • Go back to Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data).
   • Under the "SIMs" or "Cellular Plans" list, tap on your newly added GitSim eSIM.
   • Make sure the toggle for Turn On This Line is switched to the ON position.
8. Assign your GitSim eSIM for mobile data usage:
   • In Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data), tap on Cellular Data (or Mobile Data) and select your GitSim eSIM from the list.
9. Enable Data Roaming for your GitSim eSIM:
   • Go to Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data).
   • Tap on your GitSim eSIM.
   • Ensure the Data Roaming toggle is switched ON. This is necessary to connect to networks when abroad.
     When traveling, to prevent unexpected roaming charges from your primary mobile provider, consider turning off Data Roaming for your primary SIM or temporarily deactivating your primary eSIM/SIM while using your GitSim eSIM.
10. Configure the APN (Access Point Name):
    • Navigate to Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data).
    • Select your GitSim eSIM from the list.
    • Tap on Cellular Data Network (or Mobile Data Network).
    • In the APN field (it might be under sections like "Cellular Data," "Mobile Data," or "LTE Setup"), enter plus.
    • Leave the Username and Password fields blank. The settings should save automatically.

For general information on installing eSIMs on iOS, including the QR code method, see How can I install an eSIM on my iOS device (iPhone/iPad)?.

3. Manual installation on an Android device

The exact menu names and steps can vary slightly between Android manufacturers (e.g., Samsung, Google Pixel, Huawei) and Android versions, but the general process is similar:

1. Open the Settings app on your Android device.
2. Tap on Network & internet or Connections.
3. Tap on SIMs, SIM Card Manager, or a similar option.
4. Look for an option to add an eSIM. This might be labeled Add eSIM, Add mobile plan, or sometimes a '+' icon. If you see a prompt like "Don’t have a SIM card?", tap it and proceed.
5. You should find an option to Enter code manually, Add using activation code, or Enter SM-DP+ address. Select this.
6. You'll be prompted to enter the SM-DP+ Address and the Activation Code (sometimes just called "Code") that you retrieved from your GitSim account. Enter these details carefully.
7. Follow the on-screen instructions to download and activate the eSIM profile.
8. Once the eSIM is added, ensure it is enabled:
   • Return to your SIM settings (e.g., Settings > Network & internet > SIMs).
   • Select your new GitSim eSIM and make sure it's toggled ON or enabled.
9. Set your GitSim eSIM for mobile data:
   • Within your network or SIM settings, find the option for Mobile data (or Preferred SIM for mobile data) and select your GitSim eSIM.
10. Enable Data Roaming for your GitSim eSIM:
    • Go into the settings for your specific GitSim eSIM (usually found under Settings > Network & internet > SIMs > [Your GitSim eSIM]).
    • Find the Data Roaming option and toggle it ON. This is required for the eSIM to connect to local networks when you're in a different country.
      To avoid accidental roaming charges from your primary mobile provider while traveling, you may want to disable Data Roaming on your primary SIM or turn off your primary SIM temporarily.
11. Configure the APN (Access Point Name):
    • In your GitSim eSIM's settings menu, look for Access Point Names (APNs). This might be under an "Advanced" or "More" submenu.
    • Tap on APNs. You might see an existing APN or need to add a new one (often via a '+' icon or "Add" button).
    • If adding a new APN or editing an existing one:
      • Set the Name to something descriptive, like GitSim.
      • Set the APN to plus.
      • Leave all other fields such as Proxy, Port, Username, Password, Server, MMS proxy, MMS port, MCC, MNC, Authentication type, etc., as their default values or blank. Do not change them unless specifically instructed.
    • Save the APN settings and ensure the newly configured GitSim APN is selected (the radio button next to it should be filled).

For more tailored instructions for specific Android brands, you can also consult:

• How do I install an eSIM on my Google Pixel device?
• How do I install an eSIM on my Samsung Galaxy device?
• How do I install an eSIM on a Huawei device?