What is Dual SIM and eSIM for Google Pixel?
Dual SIM means that there are two SIM slots within the device - a physical SIM card and an eSIM. Like a traditional SIM card, the eSIM stores data that's needed for your device to use the EE network.
Unlike a SIM card, an eSIM is downloaded onto your device.
With the Google Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL only one SIM will work and be able to receive a single signal at once, so you'll have to manually choose which SIM is active within your phone settings.
The Google Pixel 3a, Pixel 3a XL, Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL are Dual SIM Dual Standby if the latest software is used, this means both SIM lines are active.
Which Google Pixel can I use an eSIM on?
All Google Pixel devices from Google Pixel 3 (3, 3 XL, 3a XL, 4, 4XL and 5 etc).
How do I get an eSIM for my Google Pixel?
It's easy to order a new or replacement eSIM:
- Log in to EE
- call 150 from your EE phone or 0800 956 6000 from an alternative line
- pop into an EE store
How do I set up an eSIM on my Google Pixel?
You will need an internet connection to set up your eSIM.
If you’ve been sent a paper QR code, scan it and the information stored in it will allow us to add the eSIM to your phone safely and securely.
To set up your eSIM line on your Google Pixel with a paper QR code:
- go to Settings > Mobile network > Operator
- select Add operator
- use your camera to scan the QR code on your eSIM pack and once recognised your eSIM will automatically begin downloading
Need to know
There's a QR code reader built into your Pixel’s OS which will launch during setup, so there's no need to download a third party app.
When you capture your eSIM QR code, the information contained in it is sent back to EE and allows us to add the eSIM onto your phone in a safe and secure way.
If you can't scan the QR code
You can manually add the information contained within the QR code if you can't scan it.
When the Add mobile plan screen is open, select Add using activation code.
The activation code is a single sequence of:
- LPA:1$ee.pr.go-esim.com$the unique 32-digit activation code found on your eSIM pack
- the unique 32-digit activation code found on your eSIM pack
- $$
For example, if your activation code is ABCDEF1234567890ABCDEF1234567890, you'll need to enter
LPA:1$ee.pr.go-esim.com$ABCDEF1234567890ABCDEF1234567890
If you’ve ordered an eSIM for a SIM only plan with us, you’ll be able to download your eSIM by logging in to EE. Simply follow the instructions in your confirmation email. If you’re using the EE app, make sure you’re using the latest version and update it if not.
How do I switch between the physical SIM and eSIM on my Google Pixel?
On your Google Pixel:
- go to Settings > Mobile network > Operator
- then select the SIM you want to use