A QR code that won’t scan is one of the most common hiccups during eSIM setup. It’s usually simple to fix. Here’s what to check, step by step, before you contact support.
Check the Basics First
Most scanning failures come down to something small. Before you assume there’s a bigger problem, work through these checks.
Are you scanning a screenshot?
Your phone’s camera or the built-in eSIM scanner needs to read the QR code directly. A screenshot viewed in your photo gallery often won’t scan properly. Open the original email or account page instead, and scan directly from there.
Is your screen brightness too low?
A dim screen can make the QR code hard for your camera to read clearly. Turn your brightness up before you scan.
Is the QR code too small or blurry?
If you’re scanning from a printed page or a small image, try zooming in first, or view it on a larger screen if possible.
Step-by-Step Fixes
1. Use the correct scanning method.
On iPhone, go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM and use the built-in scanner, not the regular Camera app in photo mode. On Samsung, go to Settings → Connections → SIM Manager → Add eSIM. On Google Pixel, go to Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs → Add SIM.
2. Restart your phone.
A simple restart clears temporary glitches that sometimes interfere with the camera or eSIM setup process.
3. Check your internet connection.
Your phone needs a stable WiFi connection to download the eSIM profile after scanning. A weak or dropped connection can cause the scan to succeed but the download to fail.
4. Try manual entry instead.
Most eSIM setup screens offer a manual entry option alongside the QR scanner. If your confirmation email includes an activation code, look for an “Enter Details Manually” option in your phone’s Add eSIM screen.
5. Confirm the eSIM hasn’t already been used.
An eSIM QR code typically works only once. If you’ve already scanned it on another device, or scanned it previously and removed the profile, it may no longer activate. Contact support with your order ID if this seems to be the case.
When to Contact Support
If you’ve worked through these steps and the QR code still won’t scan or activate, reach out to our support team with your order ID. Include the exact error message you’re seeing, if any, so we can help you faster.
Related Reading
For full setup instructions specific to your device, see our guides on installing a USA eSIM on iPhone, activating a USA eSIM on Samsung Galaxy, or setting up a USA eSIM on Google Pixel.
