Setting up your UnBound eSIM for iOS and Android Devices
Unbound eSIM setup is a straightforward process primarily using a QR code provided by the carrier. The general steps involve navigating your device's settings to add a new cellular plan and scanning the code.
Important Preparation
- Compatibility: Ensure your device is eSIM compatible (most flagship phones since 2018, e.g., iPhone XR/XS and later, Samsung Galaxy S21 and later, Google Pixel 2 and later).
- Unlocked: Your phone must generally be unlocked if using an eSIM from a provider other than your main carrier.
- Wi-Fi Connection: A stable Wi-Fi connection is usually required for the initial setup and download of the eSIM profile.
- Carrier Contact: You will need the QR code or manual activation details from the carrier, obtained via email, their app, or customer service.
Unbound eSIM Setup on iOS (iPhone/iPad)
The process on iOS is unified and user-friendly.
- Step 1: Open Settings. Go to the Settings app.
- Step 2: Navigate to Cellular. Tap on Cellular (or Mobile Data).
- Step 3: Add the Plan. Tap Add eSIM or Add Cellular Plan.
-
Step 4: Scan the QR Code. Select Use QR Code. Your camera will open. Use it to scan the QR code provided by Unbound.
- Manual Entry (if needed): If you can't scan the code, tap Enter Details Manually at the bottom of the screen and input the SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code from Unbound.
- Step 5: Confirm and Label. A notification "Cellular Plan Detected" will appear. Tap Continue and then Add Cellular Plan. You can then label your new plan (e.g., "Unbound Travel") for easy management.
- Step 6: Finalize. Follow any final on-screen prompts. Once activated, your iPhone will connect to the Unbound network.
Unbound eSIM Setup on Android (Samsung/Pixel)
The steps may vary slightly by manufacturer (Samsung, Google Pixel, etc.).
- Step 1: Open Settings. Go to the Settings app.
-
Step 2: Navigate to Network Settings.
- Samsung: Tap Connections, then SIM card manager.
- Google Pixel & Others: Tap Network & internet, then SIMs (or Mobile network).
- Step 3: Add the Plan. Tap Add mobile plan or the + (Add a SIM) button.
-
Step 4: Scan the QR Code. The phone will search for available plans, then prompt you to scan a QR code. Select Scan carrier QR code (or Download a SIM instead?).
- Manual Entry (if needed): Select the option to enter details manually and input the information provided by Unbound.
- Step 5: Confirm and Activate. Point the camera at the Unbound QR code. Confirm the plan details when prompted.
- Step 6: Finalize. Follow any on-screen instructions. The eSIM will download and activate, connecting you to the network.
Troubleshooting & Management
- Switching: You can store multiple eSIM profiles but usually only one is active at a time for data/calls. You can switch between them easily in your phone's SIM/Cellular settings.
- Activation Issues: If you encounter problems, ensure you have a stable Wi-Fi connection and that the QR code is clear. If issues persist, contact Unbound's customer support for assistance.
- Transferring: To transfer an eSIM to a new phone, you typically need to deactivate it on the old device and get a new QR code from Unbound to set it up on the new one.