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eSIM

An eSIM is a built-in, programmable SIM in smartphones and devices, allowing remote activation per GSMA standards. It offers the same benefits as a regular SIM once activated with your account.

Benefits of eSIM

eSIM offers easy setup without a physical card, supports multiple numbers on one device, prevents SIM loss or damage, and simplifies network switching for travelers.

How to Activate an eSIM

Check eSIM compatibility by dialing *#06# to view the EID number, then visit an Airtel Service Centre for activation assistance. Please click on Airtel Centre to locate the nearest Service Centre closest to you.

On your iPhone device, go to Settings → Cellular/Mobile Data → Add Plan, scan the QR code from Airtel, ensure Wi-Fi connection, and label the eSIM. (NB: iPhone 11 series above displays Mobile Data Plan. iPhone 10 Series shows Cellular Data)

On Google Pixel, go to Settings → Network & Internet → Mobile Network → Advanced → Carrier → Add Carrier, scan the QR code via Wi-Fi, and Airtel will link it to your new number.

On your Samsung device, go to Settings>>Connections>>Select SIM Card Manager. Click on Add Mobile Plan and scan your QR code which you have received from our customer care agent.

Ensure the Device is connected to the internet (Wifi). Our customer care agent will associate the SIM serial and PUK number on the QR code with the new phone number.

To remove an eSIM

Go to Settings > Cellular/Mobile Data > Remove Mobile Data Plan.

Go to Settings > Mobile Network > Turn off eSIM > Erase SIM > Erase.

Go to Settings > Connections > Remove all Data Plans.

FAQs

Dial *#06#

No, the EID and IMEI number are different.

You can download the eSIM by scanning the QR code provided by Customer Care after completing the SIM swap from your old SIM to the new eSIM.

es, you can upgrade your SIM to an eSIM.

No. To move the number to another Device/eSIM, you need to do a fresh sim swap and scan a new QR code.

Yes, a wireless network connection is required to download the eSIM profile.

The QR code is single-use. If lost, visit the nearest Airtel Service Centre.

Call 300 or visit an Airtel showroom to block your MSISDN. You can then perform a SIM swap with another device and valid ID

Yes, a postpaid line can switch to an eSIM through a SIM upgrade.

es, all listed activities and more can be done on an active postpaid eSIM.

No, there is currently no cost involved.

No, the process is same however you will need to download the eSIM profile into an eSIM enabled device upon successful swap.

You need to perform a SIM upgrade.

Buy and register a physical SIM, then upgrade it to an eSIM.

Visit any Airtel outlet to re-register your line. Like physical SIM, ensure you meet the requirements for the eSIM to be unbarred.

Port your number to the Airtel network, then upgrade the SIM to an eSIM.

Yes, you can. Visit an Airtel showroom for a SIM swap to get a physical SIM.

Your phone will show that the eSIM is active, and its network will be available.
To switch the eSIM profile to another device, a new SIM swap is required.

Yes, you can, but you must visit a shop for another eSIM swap.

Yes, all listed activities and more can be done on an active eSIM.

Yes, all mentioned activities and more are possible on an active eSIM.

Yes, you can transfer your eSIM to another phone by removing the data plan from the old device, turning it off, then connecting the new phone to Wi-Fi and scanning the eSIM profile.