1 · The 60-second answer

Three taps: Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM. Scan the QR code your provider emailed you. Tap Continue. The eSIM activates over Wi-Fi in under 60 seconds.

Works on iPhone XS and later. iPhone 14+ in the US is eSIM-only. No physical SIM slot at all.

2 · Before you start

  • iPhone XS or newer. XS, XR, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, or 17.
  • A working Wi-Fi connection. The QR triggers an over-the-air download from your carrier; cell data isn't enough on first install.
  • The QR code from your provider. Ringo emails it after signup; some carriers print it on a card.
  • iOS 16 or newer. The wording shifted slightly in iOS 17. Both versions are covered below.

3 · The actual steps

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Tap Cellular (or Mobile Service outside the US).
  3. Tap Add eSIM (iOS 16) or Set Up Cellular (iOS 17+).
  4. Tap Use QR Code and scan the QR code from your provider.
  5. Wait ~30 seconds while the profile downloads. Tap Continue when prompted.
  6. Choose a label for the line (Personal, Travel, Ringo).
  7. Pick a default voice line and a default data line if you have multiple lines active.

That's it. The line activates and you'll see two signal-strength bars in the status bar (one per line).

4 · Naming your lines so you don't get confused

Apple lets you label each line. The label shows in the Phone app, in Messages, and on the Lock screen banner of incoming calls.

Recommended convention:

  • Home line: name it after the country, e.g. "UK", "US", "France". You'll know at a glance which line a contact is calling.
  • Travel / Ringo line: "Ringo Global" or just "Travel". Anything that's clearly distinct from the home line.

5 · Default voice and default data

iPhone with two active eSIMs lets you choose which line is the default for each function:

  • Voice & FaceTime: outbound calls go through this line.
  • iMessage & FaceTime: your iMessage identity.
  • Mobile Data: internet routes through this line.

For Ringo users: set Ringo as both default voice and default data while traveling. Your home number rings in regardless. That's the whole point. It is the Ringo line.

6 · Switching lines mid-trip

Settings → Cellular → tap the line → Turn On This Line / Turn Off This Line.

You can keep both lines active and let iOS auto-prioritize, or save battery by turning off the one you're not using. Toggling takes effect in a couple of seconds.

7 · Common errors and how to fix them

  • "Cellular plan cannot be added". Wi-Fi is too weak or the QR has been used already. Connect to better Wi-Fi and request a fresh QR from your provider.
  • "No service" after activation. Restart the iPhone. If still nothing, toggle Airplane Mode for 30 seconds. If still nothing, give carrier provisioning ~5 minutes.
  • "This eSIM cannot be added because the activation code is no longer valid". QR codes are usually one-time-use. Get a fresh one from your provider.
  • iMessage not activating on the new line. Settings → Messages → toggle iMessage off and back on. iMessage re-keys when the line changes.
  • "SOS only" in the status bar. The line installed but the device hasn't found a partner network yet. Turn the line off and on, or restart the phone.

8 · How Ringo's flow differs (the good way)

The QR Ringo sends you activates your existing number on a global eSIM. Not a new local number.

After activation:

  • You don't need to tell contacts a new number.
  • WhatsApp, iMessage, and Signal continue uninterrupted because they key on the number, not the carrier.
  • 2FA codes, banking calls, and your CRM all keep working.
  • No further steps when you cross a border. Ringo auto-connects to the best partner network in 180+ countries.

Curious how the porting bit works? See our .

9 · Frequently asked questions

Can I have two eSIMs active at once on iPhone?+
Yes. iPhone XS and later support two active eSIMs simultaneously, and store up to eight profiles in total. You can switch between them in Settings without re-installing.
Will my iMessage threads keep working after I add a new eSIM?+
Yes. Threads key off your number, not your carrier. If iMessage shows "Waiting for activation" after adding a new line, toggle iMessage off and back on in Settings → Messages.
Do I need to remove my old SIM before adding an eSIM?+
No. iPhone supports a physical SIM and an eSIM at the same time (or two eSIMs simultaneously on US iPhones). You can keep your old line as a backup while you trial the new one.
Why does my iPhone say "iPhone Activation"?+
You're seeing the carrier-level activation screen. It usually clears in a few seconds. If it persists, restart the phone and ensure you're on Wi-Fi.
Is there a setup fee for an eSIM?+
Some carriers charge a one-time eSIM conversion fee. Ringo does not. Activation is free.
Can I move my Ringo eSIM to a new iPhone?+
Yes. Use Apple's eSIM Quick Transfer in Settings → Cellular on the new device, or request a fresh QR from your Ringo dashboard.
How do I set up an eSIM on Android?+
Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → + Add eSIM (or "Download a SIM instead"). Then scan the QR. The flow is conceptually identical to iOS; menu wording varies by Android version and OEM (Pixel, Samsung, Xiaomi).