As smartphones evolve, physical SIM cards are becoming a thing of the past. In 2025, most premium Android and iOS devices support eSIM (embedded SIM) — a digital version of the traditional SIM card. Leading Indian telecom providers like Airtel, Jio, and Vi now offer eSIM activation for both prepaid and postpaid users.
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This guide explains how to activate eSIM on iPhone and Android devices for all three major telecom operators in India.
✅ What is an eSIM?
An eSIM (Embedded SIM) is a programmable SIM chip built into your device. It eliminates the need to insert a physical SIM card and allows you to:
Use dual SIM on single-SIM phones
Switch operators without changing SIM cards
Get faster connectivity on compatible smartwatches and tablets
📲 eSIM Compatibility – iPhone & Android (2025)
📱 iPhone (iOS 14 and above)
Compatible Models:
iPhone SE (2nd/3rd Gen), iPhone XR and above
iPhone 11/12/13/14/15 Series
iPhone 16 Series (2025 models)
🤖 Android (Android 12 and above)
Compatible Models:
Google Pixel 4 and newer
Samsung Galaxy S21/S22/S23/S24/S25
Samsung Fold/Flip Series
OnePlus 11/12/13
Motorola Edge+, Xiaomi 13 Pro and newer
🔁 General Steps Before Activation
Ensure your device is eSIM compatible and unlocked
Connect to stable Wi-Fi or mobile data
Keep your email ID registered with your mobile operator
🔴 How to Activate eSIM on Airtel (2025)
📞 Send an SMS:
eSIM registered email ID → 121
You’ll receive:
Confirmation SMS
Call for consent
QR code on your registered email
📲 For iPhone:
Go to Settings > Mobile Data > Add Data Plan → Scan QR
📲 For Android:
Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager > Add Mobile Plan → Scan QR
Activation takes 2–24 hours. Restart your phone after completion.
🔵 How to Activate eSIM on Jio (2025)
📞 SMS Process:
Send GETESIM 32-digit EID number IMEI → 199
You’ll receive a confirmation SMS and QR code.
Alternatively, visit the MyJio app > Settings > eSIM and follow instructions.
Activation:
Scan QR via device settings
Restart your device
Takes up to 2 hours to complete
🟣 How to Activate eSIM on Vi (Vodafone Idea) (2025)
📞 SMS Format:
eSIM registered email ID → 199
You’ll get:
Confirmation SMS
Verification call
QR code on your email within 2 hours
Activate via Phone:
Go to Settings → SIM → Add Plan → Scan QR code
Wait for provisioning and restart the phone
💡 Troubleshooting Tips
Didn’t get QR code? Recheck registered email
eSIM not detected? Update your device software
Still stuck? Visit nearest store with ID proof
✅ Final Words
Activating eSIM is a smart way to future-proof your phone. It’s safer, faster, and saves physical SIM hassles. Here’s the quick pick:
| Operator | Activation Method | Time Required | QR on Email? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airtel | SMS to 121 | 2–24 hours | Yes |
| Jio | SMS to 199 / App | 2–4 hours | Yes |
| Vi | SMS to 199 | 2–24 hours | Yes |
Switching to eSIM in 2025 is easy—and it’s here to stay!
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A Hindi version of this guide
Device-specific instructions
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