Can't Scan the eSIM QR Code? Here's the Fix
If your phone won't scan the eSIM QR code, the solution is usually simple. Here are all the fixes, including how to install manually without scanning.
eSIM QR codes are small and contain a lot of data — they're more sensitive to scanning conditions than regular QR codes. The good news: there's always a fallback that works 100% of the time.
Common causes
- Displaying the QR on a bright screen with glare
- Holding the phone too close or too far from the code
- Low resolution screenshot or printed QR
- QR code has already been used (each code is single-use)
- Using the wrong camera app or scanning from within an app
- iOS screen capture blocking QR content (Apple's security feature)
Step-by-step fixes
Use another device to display the QR
Open your confirmation email on a laptop or a second phone. Scan from that screen with your phone. The angle and brightness of a monitor usually work better than a phone screen.
Adjust brightness on the QR screen
Turn the screen showing the QR to maximum brightness. Reduce ambient light if possible.
Adjust your scanning distance
Hold your phone about 15–20cm (6–8 inches) from the QR code. Not too close, not too far. Keep steady for 2–3 seconds.
Use the correct scanning path
Don't use a general QR scanner app. Go through Settings → Cellular (iPhone) or Settings → SIM Manager (Android) → Add eSIM → Scan QR code. The system scanner is designed for this.
Try a printed version
Print the QR code from your email at full size and scan the printed version. This bypasses any screen glare issues.
iOS screenshot restriction
If you screenshotted the QR code on iPhone and it came out blank or blurred, this is Apple's eSIM security feature — iOS intentionally prevents screenshotting QR codes. Use the original email instead.
Install without the QR code — manual entry
Your confirmation email also contains the SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code as text. You can enter these manually — no QR scanning required:
iPhone
Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Use QR Code → Enter Details Manually. Type the SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code exactly as shown in your email.
Samsung Galaxy
Settings → Connections → SIM Manager → Add mobile plan → Enter activation code manually.
Google Pixel
Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → Download a SIM → Enter a code manually.