E-SIM technology has taken mobile communication to a whole new level, offering a plethora of advantages over traditional SIM cards. With an eSIM, users can enjoy a smart, space-saving phone setup and hassle-free transitions between mobile operators without having to change physical SIM cards.
Airtel eSIM
Airtel, one of India’s leading telecom providers, now allows its customers to switch from physical SIM cards to eSIMs. However, eSIMs are only compatible with specific Android or iOS devices. Activating an Airtel eSIM is straightforward, and it involves simple steps to convert your physical SIM to an eSIM. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the user-friendly process for Airtel eSIM activation.
Airtel eSIM Activation Process
- To activate your Airtel eSIM, Send a message with the word ‘eSIM‘ to 121 from your Airtel number.
- Once you receive a confirmation SMS from 121, respond with ‘1‘ within 60 seconds to confirm the eSIM request.
- To confirm your eSIM request, must send your email ID.
- If you provide an invalid email ID, don’t worry. Airtel’s assistance will guide you through the process of rectifying the issue.
- After your confirmation, Airtel will call you to obtain your final consent and provide the necessary information on the QR code.
- You’ll receive an official QR code on your valid email ID. To activate your eSIM, scan your device’s QR code received via email.
- But avoid selecting the ‘Delete‘ option, as it permanently removes your eSIM profile.
- If you don’t receive the QR code within 30 minutes or face issues during scanning, send a message with ‘NOSIM‘ to 121 to avoid disconnection of your physical Airtel SIM.
- The eSIM activation process generally takes about 2 hours, allowing continued use of your physical SIM.
Airtel eSIM QR Code Scanning for Activation
To scan the QR code received via email, follow these steps:
- Open device settings and connect to a Wi-Fi network.
- Navigate to the ‘Mobile Network‘ settings and access the advanced options.
- Select ‘Add Carrier‘ within the advanced settings and scan the received QR code.
- Tap ‘Download‘ to complete the e-SIM activation process.
Airtel eSIM Setup
To activate Airtel eSIM on your device, follow the steps below as per your device’s operating system:
Airtel eSIM Activation on Android Devices
- Access device settings and tap on ‘Connections.’
- Open ‘Sim Card Manager’ and select ‘Add Mobile Plan.’
- Choose ‘Add Data Plan using QR Code.’
- To add the eSIM to your Android phone, scan the QR code received via email and follow the provided instructions.
Airtel eSIM Activation on iPhone
- Access ‘Settings’ and tap on ‘Mobile Data.’
- Select ‘Add a Data Plan.’
- Scan the QR code received via email.
- Follow the on-screen prompts and select ‘Add Data Plan.’
- Choose Data Plan Labels as per your preference.
- Click ‘Continue’ to activate your e-SIM on the iPhone.
Note: To scan the QR code received via email, make sure your device is connected to a Wi-Fi network. Navigate to the ‘Mobile Network’ settings and access the advanced options. Select ‘Add Carrier’ within the advanced settings and scan the received QR code. Tap ‘Download’ to complete the e-SIM activation process.
Airtel eSIM Activation through the Airtel Thanks App
To activate your Airtel eSIM, follow these simple steps:
- Download the Airtel Thanks app and log in using the phone number required to upgrade to eSIM.
- Click on the ‘upgrade to eSIM‘ icon available in the shortcuts, and initiate the eSIM request.
- Choose your device preference and enter a 32-digit EID (Embedded Identity Document) for the device you wish to activate eSIM for.
- Verify the OTP received on the Airtel number and submit the request.
- Download the eSIM profile and configure it according to the steps provided for your smartphone.
For a more detailed explanation, visit airtel.in/esim. Note that only Apple, Google Pixel, Samsung, Motorola, and Vivo devices can be configured for eSIM. If you wish to change from an eSIM back to a physical SIM, visit a nearby Airtel Store and provide proof of identification.