O2 eSIM guide | Download your eSIM | The Drop (2024)

We’ve got some exciting news to share with you. Introducing eSIM – a digital SIM that’s made it easier to connect to the people and things you love than ever before.

So, what’s the big deal? As well as giving you access to the latest and greatest devices,eSIMs are the quickest, smartest and most future-proof way to get started on your new phone, tablet or mobile plan. All you need to do is download and activate your eSIM profile and you’re good to go – there’s no need to wait for a SIM in the post.

Not only that, but eSIMs are the safest way to stay connected. If your device is lost or stolen, nobody can remove your eSIM, meaning your O2 plan can’t be used on another device without you knowing.

And whether you use your device for business or pleasure, eSIMs give you the freedom to use two active numbers on the same device. Plus, they’re 100% plastic-free so there’s less waste and impact on the planet.

With more and more gadgets supporting eSIM technology (in fact, over 50% of the devices we sell are eSIM-compatible), there’s never been a better time to swap, upgrade or switch to the device you want.

What is an eSIM?

Also known as an embedded SIM, an eSIM is a small chip that stores the data your device needs to connect to the O2 mobile network. It’s like a traditional SIM except there’s no need to physically insert it into your device – it’s already pre-built inside it and is a permanent part of your device. Your device might also have a plastic SIM slot as well as eSIM capability. This means it’s a dual SIM device, which lets you have two mobile numbers with individual tariffs on one device. There are also devices which allow you to use two eSIMs.

O2 eSIM guide | Download your eSIM | The Drop (1)

Why would an eSIM be right for me?

An eSIM is much more secure than a traditional SIM. They’re specifically designed not to store your personal data and can’t be taken out of one device and inserted into another the same way that a plastic SIM can. That makes it harder for thieves to get their hands on your SIM and use it for making calls and texts. If you’re a globetrotter or always on the go, eSIMs allow you to seamlessly swap between two mobile numbers on one device, meaning that personal and business and home and holiday mode are only a few taps away. If you’re looking to live an eco-friendlier lifestyle, then choosing an eSIM is a great way to flick through your socials or natter the night away while reducing your plastic usage.

How do I get started?

Setting up your eSIM is easy and only takes a few minutes. If you’re new to O2 or upgrading to an eSIM-compatible device and chose an eSIM as your preferred option during your purchase journey, then your eSIM profile will automatically activate as part of the new device setup. Just follow the onscreen prompts so that everything is ready to go by the time you reach the home screen. However, this method is only available for Pay Monthly plans*. But there are other ways to get started too. If you didn’t request an eSIM when you bought your device, you can set up your eSIM manually via My O2. Here’s how.

O2 eSIM guide | Download your eSIM | The Drop (2)

Can I switch from a SIM to an eSIM?

If you’re an existing customer, we’ve made it easy for you to swap your plastic SIM for an eSIM. All you need is a compatible device and SIM plan as well as access to My O2. You’ll also be able to keep the same mobile number. Simply head to My O2, select "Phones, SIMs and devices", followed by "Manage my device". Choose the "Replace your SIM" option and select "eSIM". Find out more about making the switch and tips for setting up eSIMs.

Are other gadgets eSIM-compatible?

Yes! In fact, setting up your other tech has never been easier. All iPhone models from the iPhone XS onwards, and an increasing number of Android phones, support eSIM technology. But eSIMs are also compatible with Samsung watches, Apple Watch, iPad Pro 11-inch (1st Generation or later, iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Generation or later), iPad (7th Generation or later) and iPad mini (5th and 6th Generation). To find out if your device supports an eSIM, just head over to the device’s product page in theO2 shopand check “SIM type” in the “tech specs” section. What are you waiting for?

If you have an Android device, you can download the My O2 app forfree from the Google Play Store.

If you have an iOS device, you can download the My O2 app forfree from the App Store.

*We don’t offer eSIMs on Pay As You Go plans just yet.

Published: 8 April 2024

O2 eSIM guide | Download your eSIM | The Drop (2024)

FAQs

How to download eSIM from O2? ›

You can get an eSIM when you buy or upgrade to a new device with us. If your device is compatible, just follow the onscreen prompts when you set it up for the first time and a screen will appear directing you to download your eSIM.

What does eSIM download mean? ›

An eSIM is an industry-standard digital SIM that allows you to activate a cellular plan from your carrier without having to use a physical SIM. You can install eight or more eSIMs on an iPhone and use two phone numbers at the same time.

How do I download QR codes for eSIM? ›

If you're ready to explore a world without physical SIM cards, here are the simple steps to obtain your very own eSIM QR code:
  1. Step 1: Check Device Compatibility. ...
  2. Step 2: Choose a Carrier. ...
  3. Step 3: Visit Carrier's Website. ...
  4. Step 4: Generate eSIM QR Code. ...
  5. Step 5: Scan the QR Code. ...
  6. Step 6: Add eSIM. ...
  7. Step 7: Restart Your Device.
Aug 15, 2024

How do I download eSIM again? ›

No, eSIMs typically can't be reinstalled. We highly recommend you don't remove any eSIM that you still intend to use. Once an eSIM is removed from your device, you may encounter an error when trying to download it again.

How do I manually download eSIM? ›

How to install eSIM manually on Google Android
  1. Go to [Settings] – [Network & Internet] – Tap the + icon next to Mobile Network.
  2. Tap on [Download a SIM instead] – [Next] and tap “Need help?”
  3. Tap on [Enter Data Manually]
  4. Enter your activation code by copying and pasting it into the appropriate field.
Mar 20, 2023

Can I download eSIM online? ›

Embedded SIM (eSIM) is just a SIM card gone digital, so you don't have to wait for a physical SIM. Just download your eSIM over Wi-Fi and connect to the T-Mobile network in minutes!

How do I know if eSIM is downloaded? ›

For Android devices
  1. Go to Settings.
  2. Go into "SIM cards & mobile networks"
  3. Scroll down until your see the option "Manage eSIM". Click into it.
  4. You will now see the eSIM if it has been installed correctly. Make sure it is enabled.
Apr 24, 2023

Do I need Wi-Fi to download eSIM? ›

Yes, you will need a Wi-Fi (or data) connection to install your eSIM because it needs to be loaded onto your device.

Where can I find my eSIM QR code? ›

To download your eSIM profile, you may receive an “activation code” and a QR code from an eSIM carrier. The activation code is in fact a download link. It is often in the format of a QR code that you will scan with the camera of your phone or tablet to install and activate your eSIM profile on your device.

How do I recover my eSIM QR code? ›

For those who have misplaced or lost their eSIM QR code, there is no need to panic. Many mobile carriers understand that this can happen and have provided solutions for such situations. To begin the journey of retrieving a lost eSIM QR code, check the carrier's website or contact their customer support.

How do I connect to eSIM without QR code? ›

You can install the eSIM without scanning the QR code by tapping 'Enter Details Manually' and then manually filling in the SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code.

How many times can you download an eSIM? ›

An eSIM is an industry-standard digital SIM that allows you to activate a mobile plan from your network provider without having to use a physical SIM. You can install eight or more eSIMs on an iPhone and use two phone numbers at the same time.

Do you lose your phone number with an eSIM? ›

As long as you keep your device supports dual SIM (two SIMs) and you leave your primary SIM switched on, you'll have full access to your regular phone number while you're using an eSIM.

How long does it take to download a eSIM? ›

To scan a QR code, point the camera at the code. Choose Download. The eSIM profile is being downloaded. This can take up to 5 minutes.

How to convert O2 to eSIM? ›

All you need is a compatible device and SIM plan as well as access to My O2. You'll also be able to keep the same mobile number. Simply head to My O2, select "Phones, SIMs and devices", followed by "Manage my device". Choose the "Replace your SIM" option and select "eSIM".

How do I download and install eSIM profile? ›

Under eSIM profiles, select Add a new profile. Select Search for available profiles > Next. When a profile you want to use is found, select Download. Enter the confirmation code from your mobile operator in the corresponding box, then select Download.

How can I retrieve my eSIM? ›

Scan QR Code: If you have a backup of the eSIM QR code or have received a new one after raising a request to customer support, you can use it to scan and re-add the eSIM. Follow Instructions: Once you have the required information, follow the on-screen instructions to re-add the eSIM to your device.

How do I get eSIM directly? ›

Send an SMS GETESIM <32 Digit EID> <15 Digits handset IMEI> to 199. You will get a 19-digit eSIM number and your eSIM profile configuration details for the Jio eSIM activation. Send an SMS, SIMCHG <19 Digit eSIM number> to 199. After two hours, it will give you an update along with the whole process.

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