SMARTY eSIM: your simple setup guide

Getting a SMARTY eSIM is quick, straightforward, and means no more waiting for a SIM card in the post. Here's everything you need to know.

So, what is eSIM?

An eSIM (short for embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card built directly into your phone. Instead of a small plastic card you slot in, your mobile plan is downloaded straight onto your device.

Think of it like streaming a song instead of popping in a CD. It's all digital, and it's all seamless.

Does SMARTY offer eSIM?

Yes. SMARTY eSIM is available to both new and existing customers.

New to SMARTY? Head to our eSIM plans page, pick your plan, and choose eSIM as your SIM type when you check out. Simple.

Already with SMARTY? You can swap your physical SIM to an eSIM any time through your dashboard. We'll cover exactly how below.

Is your phone eSIM compatible?

Most modern smartphones are. Here's a quick overview of the main ones:

Apple iPhone Compatible from the iPhone XS (2018) onwards. This includes all iPhone 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, and 17 models. US versions of the iPhone 14 and later are eSIM-only.

Samsung Galaxy Most Galaxy S and Z series phones from 2019 onwards support eSIM, including the S20, S21, S22, S23, S24, and S25 series, plus the Z Fold and Z Flip range.

Google Pixel Pixel 3 and later all support eSIM. This covers Pixel 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and all Pro/XL variants.

Other brands Many newer phones from Motorola, Oppo, and OnePlus also support eSIM.

If you're not sure about yours, check our device support page.

How to get a SMARTY eSIM (new customers)

1- Go to smarty.co.uk/esim and choose your plan.

2- At checkout, select eSIM as your SIM type.

3- Complete your order. We'll send an email with a QR code and your activation code.

4- Follow the instructions in the email to install your eSIM. Takes a few minutes.

That's it. No waiting around for the post.

How to switch to eSIM (existing SMARTY customers)

Already on SMARTY with a physical SIM? Swapping to eSIM takes about five minutes.

1- Log into your SMARTY dashboard.

2- Go to Account settings > Manage plan > Replace my SIM.

3- Choose eSIM and decide when to activate:

Activate now - your physical SIM is disconnected straight away, and your eSIM details are sent to your email immediately.

Activate later - your current SIM is disconnected and your account is paused until you're ready to activate.

4- Check your email for the QR code and activation instructions.

5- Scan the QR code and enter your 4-digit confirmation code from your SMARTY dashboard.

Done. You're on eSIM.

Tip: Your 4-digit confirmation code is in your SMARTY dashboard - it's not in the QR code email. They're two separate things. Easy to mix up.

How to set up your eSIM on iPhone

1- Go to Settings > Mobile Service > Add eSIM.

2- Tap Use QR Code and scan the code from your SMARTY email.

3- Enter your 4-digit confirmation code when prompted.

4- Once activated, go to Settings and make sure SMARTY is set as your mobile data and default voice line.

How to set up your eSIM on Android (Samsung/Pixel/other)

Steps can vary slightly by manufacturer, but the process is broadly the same:

1- Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager (Samsung) or Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs (Pixel/other Android).

2- Tap Add eSIM or Add Mobile Plan.

3- Choose Scan QR code and scan the code from your SMARTY email.

4- Enter your confirmation code and follow the on-screen steps.

5- Once it's activated, make sure SMARTY is set as your preferred data and call line.

Tips: For device-specific instructions, your phone manufacturer's support site is your best bet.

Why bother switching to eSIM?

A few good reasons:

No more fiddling with a SIM tray. No pin, no tiny card to lose down the back of a sofa.

Set up a new phone faster. Moving to a new device? Your SMARTY plan comes with you in minutes, not days.

Run two numbers on one phone. If your phone supports dual SIM, you can keep your personal SMARTY number and add a second SIM (work, travel, whatever) — all from the same device. No more carrying two phones.

Your number stays the same. Switching to eSIM doesn't change your number. Nothing changes on that front.

Common questions about SMARTY eSIM

How long does eSIM activation take? Usually instant after you scan the QR code and enter your confirmation code. Occasionally it can take up to two hours.

Can I use eSIM on 5G? Yes. If your device supports 5G, your SMARTY eSIM will work on 5G where it's available.

What if my QR code doesn't work? QR codes are single-use and expire after a set time. If yours has expired or isn't scanning, you can request a replacement eSIM from your dashboard.

Can I switch back to a physical SIM? Yes. You can request a replacement SIM from your dashboard at any time.

Does eSIM work with SMARTY Group plans? Yes. Each plan in your Group can use either a physical SIM or an eSIM — it's your choice.

Need a hand?

If you get stuck at any point:

🛠 Visit Help & Support for answers to the most common eSIM questions.

💬 Ask the SMARTY Community - there's usually someone who's been through the same thing.

💻 Chat with us directly if you get stuck