> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://help.simsimglobal.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Install an eSIM on iPhone — earlier iOS versions

> How to install a SimSIM eSIM on iPhone with an iOS version earlier than 26: enable data roaming and select your data line at your destination.

This guide is for iPhones on an iOS version earlier than 26. If you're not sure which version you have, check **Settings → General → About → Software Version** — on iOS 26 and later, see [Install on iPhone](/en/install-esim-iphone).

<Note>
  Your eSIM will not be named "SimSIM" on your device — it appears under a local network's name at your destination, which is normal. The eSIM you just installed always appears at the bottom of the line list. [More details](/en/activating-your-esim).
</Note>

On earlier versions of iOS, some settings appear as a wizard during installation itself. The steps are similar to newer versions, but the screen order differs.

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open My eSIMs and tap install">
    In the SimSIM app, go to **My eSIMs**, open your plan, and tap **Install eSIM**.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Approve adding the eSIM">
    Approve the request and tap **Continue** if prompted. Installation takes a few minutes — don't close the screen partway through.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Default line — choose your primary line">
    When asked which line should be the default, choose your **primary line** and tap Continue. This keeps calls and messages arriving on your usual number.
  </Step>

  <Step title="FaceTime and iMessage — choose your primary line">
    Choose your **primary line** here too and tap Continue, so iMessage and FaceTime keep working from the number people know.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Cellular data — choose your primary line">
    Choose your **primary line** here too and tap Continue.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Confirm data roaming is enabled">
    Tap the eSIM you enabled and confirm **Data Roaming** is on. Without it you'll have no internet at your destination, even if installation succeeded.

    <Tip>The eSIM you just installed always appears at the bottom of the line list.</Tip>
  </Step>

  <Step title="After you land — switch your data line">
    Once you arrive, tap **Cellular Data** and select the eSIM you set up.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## If something isn't working

The most common problem by far is **data roaming** being switched off on the new line. If you have no internet at your destination, check that first.

For more checks see [Troubleshooting](/en/troubleshooting), confirm your model is on the [compatible device list](https://simsimglobal.com/esim-compatible-devices), or see [installing on Android](/en/install-esim-android) if you're setting up a different device.