How to Install an eSIM on Samsung Galaxy: Step-by-Step Guide for Travellers

Samsung Galaxy and eSIM: Everything You Need to Know

Samsung Galaxy phones have supported eSIM technology for several years now, and the setup process is straightforward once you know the steps. If you are a Singapore traveller planning a trip to Japan, Malaysia, Bali, Korea, or anywhere else Steady eSIM covers, getting your eSIM installed on your Samsung Galaxy before you fly takes under 10 minutes and saves you a significant amount compared to carrier roaming charges.

This guide walks you through exactly how to install a Steady eSIM on your Samsung Galaxy phone, from checking compatibility to activating your plan on arrival at your destination.

Which Samsung Galaxy Phones Support eSIM?

Galaxy S Series

• Galaxy S20, S20+, S20 Ultra and later
• Galaxy S21, S21+, S21 Ultra and later
• Galaxy S22, S22+, S22 Ultra and later
• Galaxy S23, S23+, S23 Ultra and later
• Galaxy S24, S24+, S24 Ultra and later

Galaxy Z Series (Foldables)

• Galaxy Z Fold 2 and later
• Galaxy Z Flip and later

Galaxy A Series

• Galaxy A54 5G and select other A series models from 2022 onwards

Important note: eSIM availability on Samsung Galaxy phones can vary by region and by the carrier your phone was originally purchased through. Phones purchased in some markets, including certain models sold in China, may not support eSIM regardless of the model number. If you purchased your Samsung Galaxy in Singapore through a local retailer or telco, it is very likely eSIM compatible.

Before You Start: Two Things to Check

1. Confirm Your Phone is eSIM Compatible

Go to Settings on your Samsung Galaxy. Tap Connections, then SIM Manager. If you see an option to Add eSIM or Download a SIM, your phone supports eSIM. If you do not see this option, your specific model or variant may not support eSIM.

2. Confirm Your Phone is Carrier Unlocked

Your Samsung Galaxy must be carrier-unlocked to use an international travel eSIM from Steady eSIM. If you purchased your phone outright or have completed your contract with a Singapore telco, it is likely already unlocked. If you are unsure, contact your Singapore carrier to confirm or request an unlock. A locked phone will reject international eSIM profiles.

Step-by-Step: How to Install Steady eSIM on Samsung Galaxy

Before you begin, make sure you have purchased your Steady eSIM plan and have your QR code ready. Buy at steadyesim.com, choose your destination, pay by card, PayNow, or GrabPay, and receive your QR code instantly on screen and by email. Plans start from just $4.99. See destination plans for all available destinations.

• Step 1: Open Settings. On your Samsung Galaxy, open the Settings app. This is the gear icon in your app drawer or notification shade.
• Step 2: Go to Connections. Tap Connections at the top of the Settings menu.
• Step 3: Open SIM Manager. Tap SIM Manager. This is where you manage all your SIM cards and eSIM profiles on your Samsung Galaxy.
• Step 4: Tap Add eSIM. Tap Add eSIM or Download a SIM, depending on your Samsung Galaxy model and Android version. On newer Galaxy phones running One UI 5 or later, the option may appear as Add Mobile Plan.
• Step 5: Scan Your QR Code. Select the option to Scan QR Code. Hold your Samsung Galaxy camera up to the Steady eSIM QR code on your screen or on a printed copy. Your phone will scan it automatically and recognise the eSIM profile.
• Step 6: Confirm and Download. A confirmation screen will appear showing the eSIM plan details. Tap Download or Confirm to proceed. Your Samsung Galaxy will download and install the eSIM profile. This typically takes 30 to 60 seconds with a WiFi connection.
• Step 7: Label Your eSIM. Once installed, you may be prompted to give this eSIM a name or label. Name it something recognisable like Japan Steady or Bali Steady so you can identify it easily in your SIM Manager when switching between lines.
• Step 8: Set Your Data Line. Go back to SIM Manager and make sure your Steady eSIM is set as the active data line for when you travel. Keep your Singapore SIM as the default for calls and SMS so your local number stays active throughout your trip.
• Step 9: Enable Data Roaming. In SIM Manager, tap on your Steady eSIM line and make sure Data Roaming is toggled on. This is essential. Without data roaming enabled, your eSIM will not connect to local networks when you arrive at your destination.

What to Do When You Arrive at Your Destination

• Turn off Airplane Mode.
• Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager and confirm your Steady eSIM is set as the active data line.
• Your phone should connect automatically to the local network within a few minutes.
• If it does not connect, go to SIM Manager, tap your Steady eSIM line, and check that Data Roaming is enabled.
• You should see the local carrier name appear in your status bar once connected.

Managing Multiple eSIMs on Samsung Galaxy

Troubleshooting Common Issues

QR Code Will Not Scan

Make sure your screen brightness is at maximum. Try adjusting the distance between your camera and the QR code. If the QR code was sent by email, open it on a laptop or another screen and scan from there. Steady eSIM also includes the QR code in your confirmation email so you always have a backup copy.

eSIM Downloaded but No Data

Check that Data Roaming is enabled for your Steady eSIM line in SIM Manager. Confirm that Steady eSIM is selected as your active data line under SIM Manager and not just installed as an inactive profile. Try toggling Airplane Mode off and on to force a network reconnection.

Cannot Find Add eSIM Option

If Add eSIM does not appear in your SIM Manager, your phone may be carrier-locked or may be a variant that does not support eSIM. Contact your Singapore carrier to confirm unlock status, or check your specific Samsung Galaxy model's specifications on the Samsung website.

eSIM Profile Downloaded Twice

eSIM profiles are one-time use. If you accidentally initiate a second download attempt for the same QR code, contact Steady eSIM support. The support team can assist with reissuing a QR code if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Samsung Galaxy phones support eSIM?

Most Samsung Galaxy S series phones from the S20 onwards, Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip foldables, and select Galaxy A series phones from 2022 onwards support eSIM. Availability can vary by region and purchase channel. Check Settings > Connections > SIM Manager for an Add eSIM option to confirm.

How do I know if my Samsung Galaxy is carrier unlocked?

If you purchased your phone outright or have completed your telco contract, it is likely already unlocked. To confirm, contact your Singapore carrier directly or try inserting a different carrier SIM and checking if it connects.

Can I have multiple eSIMs installed on my Samsung Galaxy at once?

Yes. Most Samsung Galaxy phones support storing multiple eSIM profiles simultaneously. You can switch between them through Settings > Connections > SIM Manager without needing to rescan QR codes.

Do I need to delete my old eSIM before installing a new one?

Not necessarily. You can keep multiple eSIM profiles installed and switch between them as needed. However, if your phone has reached its maximum eSIM storage limit, you may need to delete an old profile before adding a new one.

Why is my Steady eSIM not connecting after I land?

The most common reason is that Data Roaming is not enabled for the Steady eSIM line. Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager, tap your Steady eSIM, and toggle Data Roaming on. Also confirm Steady eSIM is set as your active data line.

Can I use my Samsung Galaxy's hotspot with a Steady eSIM?

Yes. All Steady eSIM plans support personal hotspot and tethering. Enable Mobile Hotspot on your Samsung Galaxy through Settings > Connections > Mobile Hotspot and Tethering while your Steady eSIM is active as the data line.