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.
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!
Let me know if you’d like:
A Hindi version of this guide
Device-specific instructions
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