eSIM Activation Guide for iPhone (Desktop)
Updated December 2023
Introduction
This guide outlines the eSIM Activation steps for a user who has purchased an eSIM on the desktop version of the Shop. The user will use their phone to scan the QR code displayed on their desktop/laptop screen.
Step 1: Access Settings
On your iPhone, navigate to the 'Settings' app.
Visual Description: A screenshot of the iPhone Settings screen is shown. Key options visible include 'Search', 'iPhone User' (Apple ID), 'Wi-Fi', 'Bluetooth', and 'Mobile Service'. The 'Mobile Service' option is highlighted.
In the settings on your device, select "Mobile Service".
Step 2: Add eSIM
Once you are in the "Mobile Service" screen, select "Add eSIM".
Visual Description: A screenshot of the iPhone 'Mobile Service' screen is shown. It lists various existing SIM configurations (e.g., 'Used as "Manx Test"', 'Used as "Personal"'). At the bottom, there is an option labeled "Add eSIM".
Step 3: Use QR Code
From the "Set Up Mobile Service" screen, select "Use QR Code".
Visual Description: A screenshot of the 'Set Up Mobile Service' screen is displayed. It offers two options: 'Transfer From Nearby iPhone' and 'Use QR Code'. The 'Use QR Code' option is highlighted.
Step 4: Scan QR Code
The device camera will open on the screen. Use the camera to scan the QR code.
Visual Description: A screenshot shows the iPhone camera interface with a "Scan QR code" prompt. It instructs the user to position the QR code from their network provider in the frame. Options like 'Learn More...', 'Open Photos', and 'Enter Details Manually' are visible.
Step 5: Register QR Code
The device will register the QR code once it is successfully scanned and within the camera frame.
Visual Description: Another screenshot of the iPhone camera interface, this time showing a successfully scanned QR code. The text indicates that the device is processing the QR code.
Step 6: Activate eSIM
Click "Continue" to activate and install the eSIM to the device.
Visual Description: A screenshot displays an "Activate eSIM" screen. It states, "An eSIM from Truphone is ready to be activated on this iPhone." A "Continue" button is prominently displayed at the bottom.
Step 7: eSIM Activating
The eSIM will then begin to activate and install. This process can take a few minutes.
Visual Description: A screenshot shows the "Activate eSIM" screen with a progress indicator showing "Activating...".
Step 8: Mobile Plan Labels
Once the activation is complete, you can choose what you want to use your new eSIM for. Mobile Plan Labels allow you to choose a name or label for your new eSIM so it is easily identifiable. Once you have done this, click "Continue".
Visual Description: A screenshot of the "Mobile Plan Labels" screen. It allows users to assign labels like "Primary" or "Personal" to their mobile plans, including the new Truphone plan.
Step 9: Set Default Line
You will be asked to choose which SIM you wish to use for your Default Line, which is used for sending SMS messages and making calls. You can choose between your new eSIM and any other SIMs that are currently active in your device. Once you have done this, click "Continue".
Visual Description: A screenshot of the "Default Line" screen. It shows options to select a primary line for calls and messages, with the newly added eSIM and existing lines listed. A checkmark indicates the selected line.
Step 10: Configure iMessage & FaceTime
You will be asked to choose which SIM you wish to use for your iMessage and FaceTime. You can choose between your new eSIM and any other SIMs that are currently active in your device. Once you have done this, click "Continue".
Visual Description: A screenshot of the "iMessage & FaceTime" screen. Similar to the Default Line selection, it allows users to assign their new eSIM or another active SIM for these services.
Step 11: Set Mobile Data
You will be asked to choose which SIM you wish to use for your Mobile Data. You can choose between your new eSIM and any other SIMs that are currently active in your device. Once you have done this, click "Continue".
Visual Description: A screenshot of the "Mobile Data" screen. It prompts the user to select their default line for mobile data and offers an option to "Allow Mobile Data Switching".
Step 12: eSIM Activated and Switched On
Once setup is complete, you can return to the "Mobile Service" screen to see which of your SIMs are active and inactive. From here, you can click on your active eSIM to see more details about it.
Visual Description: A screenshot of the 'Mobile Service' screen, similar to Step 1, but now showing the newly activated eSIM as 'On'.
Step 13: Enable Data Roaming
To turn on Mobile Data for your new eSIM, you must click on the eSIM and switch Data Roaming to 'on'.
Visual Description: Two screenshots are shown side-by-side, illustrating the 'Mobile Data' settings for an eSIM. The right screenshot shows the 'Data Roaming' toggle switched to the 'on' position.