I know this is something a lot of you have been waiting patiently for, so I'm happy to share that eSIM is here! 🥳
What is eSIM?
An eSIM is a built-in SIM card that’s been pre-installed into a device, so no need to insert a physical SIM. The 'e' in eSim stands for 'embedded'. They work exactly like physical SIM cards, but they make setting up a new phone a breeze. Instead of having to get a SIM replacement from a store or wait for one to be delivered, you can get connected immediately.
Benefits of eSIM
It’s easier to switch to Three. You can switch to Three online or with a phone call, instead of ordering a new SIM and waiting for it to arrive. To remove the old SIM from your phone, you won't need a SIM ejector tool.
eSIM allows you to have more than one SIM. A person can have a personal number and a business number without carrying two phones. You can receive phone calls and texts on both numbers at the same time and choose which SIM to use for making calls, sending text messages, and using data.
eSIM is more sustainable. Since there is no physical SIM card, there is no plastic, or no postage and packaging, so eSIM is an environmentally-friendly option
Even more secure. A number of advanced security features are also included in eSIM, including resistance to unauthorised cloning and tampering. eSIM users can have additional peace of mind knowing that their information is protected.
How do I activate eSIM?
To activate your eSIM, there are three options. You can activate it with a QR code, using on device activation (ODA) or via on device transfer (ODT). For more info, keep reading.
What is ODA?
It’s a modern method that allows new customers and existing customers who are adding a new line to their account to activate their eSIM directly from their device settings, no QR code, no emails or additional help needed. Want to know more about ODA? Just click here.
What is ODT?
On Device Transfer (ODT) — a new feature that makes eSIM activation easier than ever. With ODT, users can:
- Convert from a physical SIM to an eSIM effortlessly
- Transfer your physical SIM or eSIM in your old phone to an eSIM in your new phone
All through your phone’s settings, no QR codes or emails needed. Want to know more about ODT? Click here
Activating your eSIM with QR Code
Before you start
- Not all phones are eSIM compatible; double check that yours is before you start.
- If you need to order an eSIM, you can do this in our online shop by clicking here.
- Activate eSIM on your device.
On iPhone
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- Turn on Wi-Fi.
- Open 'Settings'.
- Select 'Setup Mobile Data'.
- Select 'Add eSIM'.
- Scan the QR code that we emailed you. You can do this using the camera on your phone and scanning the QR code on another device, or you can screenshot the email containing the QR code. When you view the screenshot in your photo gallery, a link to activate your eSIM with Three should appear on-screen, eliminating the need to scan the QR code with a camera. Click here to learn more about how to install an eSIM.
- Enter the confirmation code that was sent in a separate email.
On Android
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- Turn on Wi-Fi.
- Open 'Device Settings'.
- Select 'Connections'.
- Select 'SIM Card Manager'.
- Select 'Add Mobile Plan'.
- Select 'Scan Carrier QR code'.
- Scan the QR code that we emailed you.
- Scan the QR code that we emailed you. You can do this using the camera on your phone and scanning the QR code on another device, or you can screenshot the email containing the QR code. When you view the screenshot in your photo gallery, a link to activate your eSIM with Three should appear on-screen, eliminating the need to scan the QR code with a camera. Click here to learn more about how to install an eSIM.
- Enter the confirmation code that was sent in a separate email.
On Google Pixel
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- Turn on Wi-Fi.
- Open 'Device Settings'.
- Select 'Network and Internet'.
- Select 'Mobile Network'.
- Select 'Download a SIM Instead'.
- Scan the QR code that we emailed you.
- Scan the QR code that we emailed you. You can do this using the camera on your phone and scanning the QR code on another device, or you can screenshot the email containing the QR code. When you view the screenshot in your photo gallery, a link to activate your eSIM with Three should appear on-screen, eliminating the need to scan the QR code with a camera. Click here to learn more about how to install an eSIM.
- Enter the confirmation code that was sent in a separate email.
FAQs
What is eSIM?
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An eSIM is a built-in digital SIM in your device, activated by scanning a QR code and entering a confirmation code from an email that we send. It functions like a physical SIM but offers added benefits like:
- It is quick and easy to set up. You can activate your eSIM straight away!
- On one device, users can save multiple profiles, allowing them to have two numbers and switch between them easily.
- Less waste is involved in receiving an eSIM, which means they are more environmentally friendly! Unlike physical SIMs, which involve plastic packaging waste, eSIMs arrive via email.
How can I get eSIM? (New to Three)
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eSIM is currently available on all Three plans. All you need to do to set up an eSIM is choose an eSIM compatible handset on three.ie and select eSIM. Learn more about eSIM compatible devices by clicking here.
How can I get an eSIM? (Already with Three)
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If you already have an account with Three, an eSIM compatible device, and wish to switch to an eSIM, you can do this on the 'Replace My SIM' page by clicking here.
What is an eSIM QR code?
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When you order an eSIM, you will receive an email from Three. This email will contain a QR code for you to scan with your smartphone camera. Scanning the QR code is how you will download your eSIM profile to your device. You can also access the QR code by taking a screenshot of the email containing the QR code. When you view the screenshot in your photo gallery, a link to activate your eSIM with Three should appear on-screen, eliminating the need to scan the QR code with a camera. Click here to learn more about how to install an eSIM.
How do I activate my eSIM?
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All you need to do is follow these two easy steps:
- Scan or screenshot the eSIM QR code that you received via email.
- Enable your eSIM, and connect to the Three network.
Does my device support eSIM?
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Please note that eSIM is only available on compatible phones. Most newer phones are eSIM compatible. To find out if your device is eSIM compatible, click here to visit our Device Guides. From there, just select your device and double check the user manual.
Can I use an eSIM and a physical SIM in my phone?
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Yes, if your phone has the capacity to use a physical SIM and an eSIM.
Using both a physical SIM and eSIM in the same phone is handy if you want to have the same device for work and personal use. This means you can have a personal number and a work number without carrying two phones! You can receive phone calls and texts on both numbers at the same time and choose which SIM to use for making calls, sending text messages, and using data.
Please note that to use roaming, you will need to make sure your phone is unlocked. Click here to request an unlock code.
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