Every Pixel from the Pixel 3 onward supports eSIM. This guide walks you through adding a travel eSIM to any supported Pixel phone in under 2 minutes.
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Setup
Connect to Wi-Fi first. The process takes about 90 seconds.
Go to Settings > Network & internet > SIMs > Add SIM > Download a SIM instead.
Point your camera at the QR code from your eSIM provider. The profile downloads automatically.
Name the line 'Travel Data' and confirm the installation. The eSIM profile is now stored on your phone.
Set the travel eSIM as your mobile data SIM in Settings. Enable roaming for the travel line only.
eSIM support covers: Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 8, 8 Pro, 8a, 7, 7 Pro, 7a, 6, 6 Pro, 6a, 5, 5a, 4, 4a, 4 XL, 3, 3 XL, 3a, 3a XL. The Pixel 7 and newer support dual eSIM, meaning you can have two eSIM profiles active at the same time without needing a physical SIM at all. Older Pixels (3 through 6) support one physical SIM plus one eSIM.
The dual SIM setup on Pixel is ideal for travel. Keep your home carrier on one SIM (physical or eSIM) for calls and texts, and add the travel eSIM as your data line. In Settings > Network & internet > SIMs, set the travel eSIM as your default for mobile data. Keep your home line for calls and SMS. This way you stay reachable on your home number while using local data rates abroad.
Add SIM option missing: Check that your Pixel model supports eSIM and is carrier-unlocked. Some carrier-branded Pixels disable the eSIM menu.
QR code not recognized: Ensure you are on Wi-Fi. Try entering the activation details manually if the camera scan fails.
No data connection: Confirm the travel eSIM is set as your mobile data SIM. Enable data roaming for the travel line. Restart your phone.
FAQ
Every Google Pixel from the Pixel 3 (2018) onward supports eSIM. The Pixel 7 and newer support dual eSIM (two eSIM profiles active at once without a physical SIM).
Go to Settings > Network & internet > SIMs > Add SIM > Download a SIM instead. Scan the QR code from your eSIM provider and follow the prompts to install.
Yes. Pixel 3 through 6 support physical SIM + eSIM. Pixel 7 and newer support dual eSIM (two eSIM profiles active simultaneously) plus a physical SIM slot on most models.
Yes. Carrier-locked Pixels cannot add third-party eSIM profiles. Pixels bought directly from the Google Store are unlocked by default.
