What is an eSIM and how do I activate it?

An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital version of the physical SIM Card—identifying your device virtually to provide network connection. It's programmable remotely via software and is built into newer Smartphones, meaning you wouldn't have to go purchase a new SIM Card if you wanted to swap phones or wireless carriers. Like a SIM Card, an eSIM connects your phone to your free Assurance Wireless service.

All major mobile device manufacturers have eSIM phones, but not all models are eSIM compatible since this is newer technology.

How to activate

Before you begin, make sure you're connected to Wi-Fi.

Samsung

1. Watch for a Notification on your device that your eSIM is ready to add
2. Tap "Add eSIM" on the notification to download your eSIM and connect to the Assurance Wireless network

If you didn't receive the Notification, follow these steps:

1. From your home screen, tap Settings > Connections > SIM Manager > Add eSIM
2. Select Assurance Wireless, then Add to download your eSIM and connect to the T-Mobile Network

Google Pixel

1. Watch for a Notification on your device that your Assurance Wireless eSIM is ready to add
2. Tap the notification and Tap "Set-Up" to download your eSIM and connect to the Assurance Wireless network

If you didn't receive the Notification, follow these steps:

1. From your home screen, tap Settings > Network & Internet>SIMs > Add eSIM
2. Tap Download your eSIM
3. Select Assurance Wireless, then Activate to download your eSIM and connect to the T-Mobile Network

Motorola

1. Watch for a Notification on your device that your Assurance Wireless eSIM is ready to add
2. Tap the notification and Tap "Set up" to download your eSIM and connect to the Assurance Wireless network

If you didn't receive the Notification, follow these steps:

1. From your home screen, tap Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs & mobile netowrk > Download new SIM
2. Tap Set up an eSIM
3. Select Assurance Wireless, then Set up to download your eSIM and connect to the T-Mobile Network
4. Once your eSIM finishes downloading, tap Settings > Assurance Wireless and turn on Use SIM
5. Tap "Turn on" to connect to the T-Mobile Network

iPhone

1. Watch for a Notification on your device that an eSIM from Assurance Wireless is ready to be set up on your phone
2. Tap the Notification to download your eSIM and connect to the Assurance Wireless network

If you didn't receive the Notification, follow these steps:

1. From your home screen, tap Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM
2. Tap Add Cellular Plan

Other

1. From your home screen, tap Settings > Network & Internet
2. Choose Add SIM
3. Tap Set up an eSIM
4. Select Assurance Wireless, then Set up to download your eSIM and connect to the T-Mobile Network
5. Once your eSIM finishes downloading, tap Settings > Assurance Wireless and Toggle SIM OFF to ON
6. Tap TURN ON to connect to the T-Mobile Network

Remember to use your phone at least once every 30 days to keep your service active.

Make a call, send a text or go online using mobile data to keep your account active.