> ## 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 via QR Code on iPhone or Android

> Step-by-step guide to installing a SimSIM eSIM by scanning a QR code on iPhone or Android — including how to set it up for someone else's phone.

Instead of tapping the install button in the SimSIM app, you can scan a QR code to add the eSIM to any iPhone or Android device. This is the standard eSIM installation method supported by all carriers — useful when setting up a phone for someone else, or if you prefer to go through your device settings directly.

<Note>
  An eSIM can only be installed on one device and cannot be shared or transferred to another phone.
</Note>

The QR code for your plan is available in the SimSIM app under **My eSIMs** → your plan → the three-dot menu → **Show QR / Manual install**.

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Installing for someone else" defaultOpen>
    Display the QR code on your screen and hand your phone to the other person — or hold it up — so they can scan it from their device.

    **On iPhone**

    <Steps>
      <Step title="Open the Camera app">
        On the target phone, open the Camera app and point it at the QR code on your phone. A notification will appear at the top of the screen.
      </Step>

      <Step title="Confirm adding the eSIM">
        Tap the notification, then **Add Cellular Plan**. Installation takes a few minutes.
      </Step>
    </Steps>

    For detailed setup instructions, see the [iPhone installation guide](/en/install-esim-iphone).

    **On Android**

    <Steps>
      <Step title="Open the QR scanner">
        On the target phone, swipe down from the top of the screen and tap the QR scanner icon. If it's not there, use any QR scanner app.
      </Step>

      <Step title="Scan the QR code">
        Point the camera at the QR code on your phone. The profile details will appear.
      </Step>

      <Step title="Confirm the installation">
        Tap **Confirm** or **Add**. Installation takes a few minutes — don't close the screen partway through.
      </Step>
    </Steps>

    For detailed setup instructions, see the [Android installation guide](/en/install-esim-android).

    <Tip>
      **Alternative:** tap the share button in the app to send them the QR image directly. Once they receive it, they can tap the image to start the eSIM setup — no scanning needed.
    </Tip>
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Installing for yourself">
    If you're installing the eSIM on the same phone you're using to manage your plan, the easiest way is to use the install button directly in the SimSIM app — see the [iPhone](/en/install-esim-iphone) or [Android](/en/install-esim-android) guide.

    If you'd still like to use the QR code, long-press it in the app and your phone will open the eSIM setup directly — no second device needed.

    For detailed setup instructions, see the [iPhone](/en/install-esim-iphone) or [Android](/en/install-esim-android) guide.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>


## Related topics

- [Install an eSIM Manually on iPhone or Android](/en/install-esim-manual.md)
- [Install your eSIM — start here](/en/activating-your-esim.md)