Problems scanning a QR code during eSIM installation are relatively common and may be caused by device settings or technical issues. Fortunately, in most cases the problem can be solved easily — even without using the camera, by installing the eSIM manually.

1. Why Can’t I Scan the QR Code?

There are several common reasons why QR code scanning may not work:

• Poor image quality — a blurry, unclear, or very small QR code may be difficult to read.
• Screen brightness is too low — if the QR code is displayed on another device, the brightness may not be sufficient.
• Camera problems — a dirty lens or temporary system issues may affect scanning.
• The QR code has already been used — many eSIM QR codes work only once.
• Incompatible device — not all phones support eSIM.
• System error or outdated software — older versions of iOS or Android may have installation issues.

2. What Should I Do If QR Scanning Does Not Work?

Before switching to manual installation, try a few simple steps:

• Clean the camera lens.
• Increase the brightness of the screen displaying the QR code.
• Place the QR code in good lighting conditions.
• Restart your phone.
• Check whether your system software is up to date.

If it still does not work, you can install the eSIM manually.

3. How to Manually Install an eSIM on iPhone (iOS)

If you cannot scan the QR code, you can add the eSIM manually using the installation details (SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code).

Step by step:

Go to:
Settings → Cellular / Mobile Data → Add eSIM

Select:
“Enter Details Manually”

Enter:

• the SM-DP+ Address (server address),
• the Activation Code.

Confirm and wait for the installation to complete.

After installation:

• set the eSIM as active,
• optionally rename it.

Set the eSIM as active:

• Set it as the mobile data line,
• optionally set it as the primary internet SIM.

Enable data roaming (if required):

Go to:
Settings → Cellular → eSIM → Data Roaming → Turn On

Make sure the eSIM is enabled:

Sometimes the eSIM is added successfully but remains inactive.

👉 You can find the manual installation details in the email or app where you purchased the eSIM.

4. How to Manually Install an eSIM on Android

The process may vary depending on the manufacturer (Samsung, Xiaomi, Pixel), but the general steps are similar.

Step by step:

Go to:
Settings → Network & Internet → SIM Cards
(or:
Connections → SIM Manager on Samsung devices)

Select:
Add eSIM / Add Mobile Plan

Instead of scanning the QR code, choose:
“Enter Code Manually”

Enter:

• the SM-DP+ Address,
• the Activation Code.

Confirm the installation and wait for activation.

Make sure the eSIM is enabled

Sometimes it is added correctly but remains inactive.

Set the eSIM as the mobile data SIM:

• Set it as Mobile Data / Cellular Data,
• optionally set it as the default SIM.

Enable data roaming (if required):

Go to:
Settings → Mobile Network → Data Roaming → Turn On

After installation, make sure that:

• the eSIM is enabled,
• it is selected for mobile data usage.

5. What Should I Do If Manual Installation Still Does Not Work?

If manually entering the details does not solve the issue, it may mean that:

• the installation details are incorrect,
• the eSIM has already been activated before,
• there is a problem on the carrier’s side.

Solution:

Check the installation details carefully and try again.

If the problem still occurs, contact your eSIM provider and request a new QR code or technical assistance.