Download, Add or Transfer an eSIM on Pixel and Samsung
Add cellular service without a plastic card using the phone’s built‑in eSIM tools. Paths and options are carrier‑dependent—confirm support and IMEI with your carrier first. Built‑in Settings only; no third‑party eSIM marketplaces in this guide.
What You Need
- Wi‑Fi (download often needs internet before cellular is active).
- Carrier confirmation that your plan and phone support eSIM; Pixel Help: give them IMEI / device ID if you didn’t buy from the carrier.
- Carrier QR code, carrier app instructions, or transfer from another phone (carrier‑dependent).
- For Pixel transfer: both phones Android 12+, current Google Play Services, screen lock set (Pixel Help).
- No third‑party eSIM shops in this tutorial—use your carrier’s official materials.
QR vs activation code: Pixel Help lists activation via carrier assignment, transfer, QR code, or carrier app. Samsung documents Scan QR code, carrier discovery / push, and transfer (enter a code shown on the new phone into the old one). If your carrier gives a printed activation code instead of a QR, follow the on‑screen option your carrier’s flow provides—don’t invent steps outside Settings / the carrier’s own app.
Step 1: Pixel — set up a new eSIM
Settings > Network & internet > SIMs > Add SIM > Set up an eSIM. Follow on‑screen prompts (QR / carrier detection / carrier app as offered). During first‑run setup you may see Download SIM → Set up.
Step 2: Pixel — transfer from another device
Settings > Network & internet > SIMs > Add SIM > Transfer SIM from another device. Keep the other phone nearby. If transfer isn’t detected, contact the carrier—Pixel notes the old line can still work if transfer fails.
Step 3: Samsung — add via QR / discovery
Settings > Connections > SIM manager > Add eSIM. Choose Scan QR code and scan the carrier QR, or let the phone search for a plan (carrier discovery). Restart if prompted. Some carriers also push an “eSIM ready” notification → Add.
Step 4: Samsung — transfer from another phone
On the new phone: SIM manager > Add eSIM > Transfer SIM from another phone. On the old phone tap Transfer and enter the code shown on the new phone; confirm the SIM on both devices. Instant transfer is carrier‑listed (Samsung US SIM guide).
Carrier caveats
Not every carrier supports eSIM, dual‑eSIM, or instant transfer. Pixel 10 US models (except Fold) are eSIM‑only per Pixel Help. Samsung: some carriers don’t support Galaxy eSIM yet—ask them. Dual‑SIM preferences are covered in Tutorial 13; this page is only about downloading / transferring the profile.
Prefer Wi‑Fi for the download
Official docs
Pixel set up: 16115470; transfer: 16115951; QR/carrier app overview: 16399741; dual SIM notes: 9449293. Samsung SIM / eSIM: ANS10001619.