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eSIM Troubleshooting Guide!

  • Writer: Etel Marketing
    Etel Marketing
  • 21 hours ago
  • 3 min read

Got questions about eSIMs or running into connection issues? WE'RE HERE TO HELP. These easy troubleshooting steps fix 90% of problems in minutes.

Friendly support character holding smartphone with eSIM interface and troubleshooting icons including wifi signals, location pins, and checkmarks on white background

eSIM 101: DO NOT DELETE THE ESIM!!!

We know encountering issue can be frustrating, but if your data isn't working, please do not delete the eSIM plan from your device. Once deleted, it cannot be re-added, and you will need to purchase a new one. Follow the simple steps below, or contact us if you need immediate assistance, we're always here for you!


Quick Checklist

Before diving deeper, check these three things:

✓ Data Roaming turned ON?

✓ eSIM set as your data source?

✓ Tried Airplane Mode on/off?

If you've checked all three and still have issues, keep reading.


Locate Your Issue

What issue are you experiencing? Check if it's one of these common ones:


Unable to Activate eSIM / SIM Activation Error showing?

Did you install the eSIM before arriving your destination and see an "Unable to Activate eSIM" message? Whether you're at home, at the airport, or on the plane.


Fixes:

This is perfectly normal! The eSIM installs successfully in the background but cannot activate until it detects a network in your destination country, simply Ignore this warning. When you arrive at your destination, your service will automatically switch on.


Laggy or Network Issues During Overseas?

If you are in your destination country but still struggling, you might be experiencing:

  • Super slow speeds or stuck on 3G

  • Seeing "E" (Edge) instead of 4G/5G

  • Signal bars showing but websites won't load


Quick Troubleshooting Fixes

These steps fix 90% of connection issues!


Step 1: Are You in a Covered Country?

Are you in a country your eSIM covers? For example, a Taiwan eSIM only works in Taiwan, but a regional plan may cover multiple countries. You can check your plan's coverage on our plans page.


Step 2: Turn On Data Roaming

This is the most critical setting for any travel SIM.


iPhone/iPad (iOS)

Settings > Cellular > [Your eSIM Plan] (e.g., 'Secondary') > Turn ON "Data Roaming"


Android (Samsung/Pixel)

Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > [Your eSIM Plan] > Turn ON "Data Roaming"


Step 3: Set eSIM as Your Data Source

Your phone needs to know which SIM to use for internet access.


iPhone (iOS)

Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data > Select your eSIM


Android (Samsung)

Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager > Select your eSIM under "Mobile Data"


Android (Pixel)

Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > Select your eSIM


Step 4: Reset the Connection (Airplane Mode Trick)

Force your phone to look for a network refresh.

  1. Turn Airplane Mode ON for 30 seconds.

  2. Turn Airplane Mode OFF.

  3. Wait up to 5-10 minutes for your phone to re-authenticate and find a strong 4G/5G signal.


Advanced Connectivity Tricks

If the essentials didn't work, try these device-specific fixes. These are still easy, but a bit more technical!


Step 5: Android Only - Configure the APN

Sometimes, the Access Point Name (APN) setting doesn't auto-load correctly on Android devices.

  1. Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > [Your eSIM] > Access Point Names

  2. Tap "+" to create new

  3. APN field: globaldata

  4. Leave Username/Password blank

  5. Save and select it


Step 6: Manually Select a Network

Allow your device to scan for every available carrier and try connecting to them one by one.

  1. Settings > Cellular > [Your eSIM] > Network Selection

  2. Turn OFF "Automatic"

  3. Pick a network from the list

  4. Not working? Try another one


Still Need Help?

If you have completed all six super easy steps and are still experiencing issues, please know we are here for you!


Please Contact Us now so we can check your plan and assist with real-time network diagnosis. In some rare cases, local network issues or coverage gaps may be impacting connectivity, and we can help you find the best solution.



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