Guide

How to install an eSIM

Scan the QR, label the line, and pick it for data.

Quick answer

Install on Wi-Fi before you fly. On iPhone, open Settings, Cellular, Add eSIM, and scan the QR. On Samsung, use Settings, Connections, SIM manager, Add eSIM. On Pixel, use Settings, Network and internet, SIMs, Add SIM. Then set the new line for mobile data and turn Data Roaming on for that line only.

Install on: Wi-Fi, before departure
Time needed: About 5 minutes
QR: Scans once, on one phone
Data Roaming: On for the eSIM line only

What do I need before installing?

These are the usual reasons an install fails.

An eSIM phone that is carrier-unlocked. Check the exact model before you pay.
Wi-Fi. The install downloads the eSIM.
The QR on another screen: a laptop, a tablet, or a printout. The phone you are setting up cannot scan a QR on its own display.

How do I install the eSIM on iPhone?

Names differ slightly between iOS versions. Cellular is called Mobile Service or Mobile Data in some countries.

Open Settings and tap Cellular (or Mobile Service).
Tap Add eSIM, then Use QR Code. Transfer From Nearby iPhone does not install this QR.
Scan the QR from your email or order page.
Label the new line and keep your home line as Primary.
For Default Line, keep your home line. These plans have no phone number.
For Cellular Data, choose the new eSIM, and turn off Allow Cellular Data Switching.
Open the new line and turn Data Roaming on.

How do I install the eSIM on Samsung or Pixel?

Samsung: Settings, Connections, SIM manager, Add eSIM, then scan the QR.
Pixel: Settings, Network and internet, SIMs, Add SIM, then scan the QR.
Name the line, and set it as the mobile-data SIM.
Turn Roaming on for that line. Leave roaming off on your home SIM.

What if I can’t scan the QR code?

Under Add eSIM, choose Enter Details Manually. The code in the email starts with LPA:1$. The part between the two $ signs is the SM-DP+ Address. The part after the second $ is the Activation Code.

Each QR scans once. If the phone says the code was already used, the eSIM is probably already in the SIM list. Turn that line on. If it is not there, email admin@kovitel.com with your order link. Do not delete the eSIM to try again.

What do I do when I land?

Turn off airplane mode. Confirm the new line is on, chosen for mobile data, and Data Roaming is on for that line only.

If the line shows signal and still has no data, set the APN to mobile.three.com.hk. That string is the access-point name, not the name of a network.

Questions

Can I install this the day before I fly?

Yes. Install on Wi-Fi at home. Turn Data Roaming on for the eSIM line when you want it to connect.

Will I keep my WhatsApp number?

Yes. WhatsApp stays on your account. The travel eSIM only supplies the data.

What if I deleted the eSIM by mistake?

The same QR will not scan again. Email admin@kovitel.com with your order link.