Is your eSIM stuck on Activating your iPhone?

When Apple introduced the eSIM feature in the iPhone XR, it was for users' convenience. It eliminated the need for physical SIM cards forever. However, a frustrating issue was noticed.

Some users have experienced that eSIM is not working with their iPhone. Like they have scanned the QR code and followed all the steps. But the signal bar keeps searching for a network.

Is your eSIM stuck on activating your iPhone? Do you follow the activation process correctly?

If you are facing this issue, this blog is a step-by-step troubleshooting guide for you. Understand the situation and learn how to fix it!

Understanding eSIM Activation Issues

If the eSIM is stuck, you will see an on-screen message saying, Activation Failed, or Activation in Progress.

The following are the common causes of this issue:

• Network Connectivity Problems - Issue occurs if your device is connected to a weak or unstable internet connection.
• Carrier Compatibility - Not all carriers support eSIM functionality, so your eSIM may be stuck activating on your iPhone.
• Software Glitches - The same issue will occur if the device software is outdated or your carrier updates are pending.

What are the Preliminary Checks before Troubleshooting?

To understand the issues and solutions, first perform these checks:

• Device Compatibility - Verify your iPhone model eSIM compatibility.
• Carrier Support - Ensure that your network carrier supports eSIM functionality.
• Stable Internet Connection - Your phone must have a stable Internet connection.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Methods

When your eSIM gets stuck on activating your iPhone, there are several issues behind it.

To resolve these issues like a pro, you need to follow these troubleshooting steps:

Toggle Airplane Mode

• Open the Control Center of your device.
• Tap Airplane Mode
• Once enabled, wait for 10 seconds.
• Tap again and turn it off,

Once you perform this, it will refresh your device network connections and resolve the activation issue.

Restart Your Device (iPhone)

• Press and hold the Power Button along with the Volume Up or Down Button. You see the Slide to Power Off option on your screen.
• Slide to turn off your iPhone.
• After the device is turned off, press and hold the power button again to turn it on.

Doing this will solve all the software problems or glitches affecting eSIM activation.

Update iOS and Carrier Settings

• To update iOS, Tap Settings> General> Software Update.
• If updates are available, tap Download and Install.

This will update your device to the latest version, removing the eSIM activation issue.

• To update carrier settings, Tap Settings> General> About.
• If there is any update, a prompt will appear to Install it.

Reinstall The eSIM Profile

Removing eSIM Profile

• Tap Settings> Cellular
• Choose the Plan that you are trying to activate.
• Tap Remove Cellular Plans

Reinstall eSIM

• Reach out to your eSIM carrier to obtain a new eSIM activation QR code or details.
• Tap Settings> Cellular> Add Cellular Plan
• Scan the QR code or manually enter the code to activate.

When you reinstall your eSIM profile, it will resolve the issues stemming from corrupted or incomplete eSIM activation.

Reset Network Settings

• Tap Settings> General> Transfer or Reset iPhone> Reset.
• Tap Reset Network Settings

Doing this will wipe out all the networks and passwords you saved, but your network-related issues will be resolved.

Advanced Troubleshooting

If any of the above steps are not helpful and you are still facing the issue, try this:

• Contact Your Carrier— You must contact your carrier's customer service team. Tell them to check if your account is configured correctly for eSIM activation. Or is there any issue on their end?
• Consult Apple Support—If the problem persists, contact Apple Support or visit their store for assistance.

Preventive Measures for Future eSIM Activations

• Backup Your iPhone - Try to backup your device daily to avoid any data loss during troubleshooting.
• Verify Compatibility - Make sure your device and carrier both support eSIM service.
• Keep Software Updated - Regularly update your iPhone iOS to avoid any compatibility issues.

FAQs

How long does eSIM activation take?

eSIM activation usually takes a few minutes, but depending on the carrier, it can take as long as 24 hours to activate.

How do I know my carrier supports eSIM?

You can visit the carrier's website or contact customer support to confirm eSIM compatibility.

Will removing and reinstalling eSIM fix the activation issue?

Yes, if you are having an activation issue, you can resolve it by removing and reinstalling your eSIM profile.