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Learn how to use eSIM on Google Pixel, including quick and easy steps to install, use, and transfer eSIM.

eSIM technology was first introduced by Google through its Google Pixel smartphones starting in 2017. Although eSIM is becoming increasingly popular among Vietnamese users, not everyone fully understands how to use eSIM on Google Pixel. This guide provides detailed instructions on installing, using, transferring eSIMs on Google Pixel devices, and activating international travel eSIMs on Pixel phones.

I. What is eSIM on Google Pixel?

eSIM on Google Pixel (short for Embedded SIM) is a tiny chip built directly into the phone’s motherboard, allowing users to access mobile services without inserting a physical SIM card.

eSIM Support on Pixel Devices

  • Pixel 3a and newer: Support eSIM and Dual SIM mode (1 physical SIM + 1 eSIM), except Japanese models. Users can customize each SIM for calls, messages, or mobile data.
  • Pixel 7 / Pixel 7 Pro and newer: Support using 2 eSIMs simultaneously, depending on carrier support.

II. Requirements to Activate eSIM on Google Pixel

To install eSIM on a Pixel phone, you must meet these 2 requirements:

  • Use a Pixel 3a or newer device (Pixel 2 supports eSIM only in certain countries)
  • A carrier that supports eSIM: In Vietnam, Viettel, Vinaphone, and MobiFone all support eSIM services.

III. What to Prepare Before Installing eSIM on Google Pixel

Before installing eSIM on your Pixel device, prepare the following:

  • An eSIM-compatible phone (carrier-unlocked if using an international travel eSIM)
  • A stable WiFi connection
  • eSIM information from your provider (QR code or manual activation details)

IV. How to Install eSIM on Google Pixel for the First Time

There are 2 ways to install eSIM on Pixel phones:

  • Scan a QR code
  • Enter information manually (SM-DP+ Address and activation code from the provider)

Normally, scanning a QR code is the default and easiest installation method. Manual setup is only needed if the QR code cannot be scanned.

Steps to Install eSIM on Pixel

  1. Open Settings > Network & Internet
  2. Select Mobile Network > tap Add eSIM or the + icon
  3. Choose Download a new eSIM
  4. Display the QR code on another device or print it out
  5. Scan the QR code
  6. Tap Download and wait a few minutes
  7. Your eSIM is now successfully installed

If the QR code cannot be scanned, you can manually enter the SM-DP+ address and activation code provided by your carrier.

How Long Does Installation Take?

Installing eSIM on Google Pixel is very fast and simple, usually taking only 3–5 minutes.

V. How to Set eSIM as the Default for Mobile Data, Calls, and Messages

You can configure your eSIM as the default line for calls, SMS, and mobile data.

Steps:

  1. Go to Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs
  2. Select your carrier
  3. Configure preferences for each SIM/eSIM:
    • Mobile Data: Enable mobile data
    • Calls: Choose a default SIM or select Ask every time
    • SMS: Choose a default SIM or select Ask every time

VI. How to Activate an International Travel eSIM on Google Pixel

There are 2 types of eSIMs:

  • Regular eSIM: Works like your normal physical SIM
  • International travel eSIM: Used only when traveling abroad

For regular eSIMs, simply enable the eSIM after installation. For travel eSIMs, additional setup is required after arriving in the destination country.

Steps to Activate a Travel eSIM

  1. Open Settings > Network & Internet
  2. Select SIMs / Mobile Network
  3. Choose the installed travel eSIM
  4. Tap Use SIM > Yes
  5. Select the eSIM for mobile data
  6. Enable Mobile Data
  7. Enable Roaming

After these steps, you can access the Internet using mobile data on the eSIM.

What to Do if the eSIM Still Cannot Access the Internet?

If you still cannot connect:

  • Restart your phone
  • If the issue remains, manually configure the APN:
    1. Go to Settings > Network & Internet
    2. Select SIMs / Mobile Network
    3. Choose the eSIM
    4. Tap the + icon
    5. Enter the APN details provided by your carrier or eSIM provider

If the issue continues, contact your eSIM provider for support.

VII. How to Delete eSIM on Pixel

You should carefully consider before deleting an eSIM, especially travel eSIMs, since most providers only allow one-time installation.

Steps to Remove eSIM

  1. Go to Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs / Mobile Network
  2. Select the eSIM you want to remove
  3. Turn off the eSIM if it is active
  4. Tap Erase SIM
  5. Confirm deletion

VIII. How to Convert Physical SIM to eSIM on Google Pixel

You can convert physical SIM cards to eSIMs with Viettel, MobiFone, and Vinaphone.

All three carriers support conversion at physical service stores. Bring:

  • Your ID card/passport
  • The SIM card you want to convert

Viettel and MobiFone also support online conversion via their mobile apps, while Vinaphone does not support online eSIM conversion.

The standard conversion fee is 25,000 VND per eSIM.

Convert Viettel SIM to eSIM Online

  1. Open the My Viettel app
  2. Go to Menu > Utilities > SIM Conversion
  3. Select Convert to eSIM
  4. Confirm the fee and sign the agreement
  5. Enter personal information and phone number

Convert MobiFone SIM to eSIM Online

  1. Open the My MobiFone app
  2. Select Convert to eSIM
  3. Tap Agree
  4. Enter the OTP code
  5. Confirm the request
  6. Restart the phone after receiving the confirmation message