Google Pixel eSIM Guide: Compatibility & Setup (2026)

Before you install your Flow Go eSIM, make sure your Google Pixel is network unlocked, connected to a stable Wi-Fi network, and supports eSIM. If you are not sure whether your model is supported, check our updated eSIM compatible devices list before buying a data plan.

What You Need Before Google Pixel eSIM Setup

To complete Google Pixel eSIM setup successfully, please prepare the following before scanning your eSIM QR code:

• A stable Wi-Fi connection.
• A Google Pixel phone that supports eSIM.
• An unlocked phone that is not restricted by your carrier.
• Your Flow Go eSIM QR code or manual activation details.
• Enough battery power to complete the installation process.

If your Pixel phone is carrier locked, the eSIM may not activate correctly. If you are not sure whether your phone is unlocked, contact your original mobile carrier before installing your travel eSIM.

Google Pixel eSIM Compatibility List

Most recent Google Pixel phones support eSIM, but compatibility can vary by country, region, carrier, and model variant. The table below gives a general overview for popular Pixel models.

For the latest model list, including Pixel, iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Xiaomi, Huawei, OPPO, and OnePlus devices, visit our eSIM compatible devices page.

How to Check If Your Google Pixel Supports eSIM

Before installing your eSIM, check whether your Pixel phone supports eSIM and whether it is unlocked. This is important for Google Pixel eSIM activation, especially when using a travel data plan outside your home country.

Method 1: Check in Pixel Settings

1. Open Settings on your Google Pixel.
2. Tap Network & Internet.
3. Tap SIMs or Mobile network.
4. Look for options such as Add SIM, Download a SIM instead, or Use eSIM.

If you see an option to download a SIM or add an eSIM, your phone likely supports eSIM. However, the phone still needs to be unlocked and compatible with the destination network.

Method 2: Check Your Pixel Model

You can check your exact model by going to:

Settings > About phone > Model

After checking the model name, compare it with our updated eSIM compatibility list.

Method 3: Check If Your Phone Is Carrier Unlocked

Even if your Google Pixel supports eSIM, a carrier-locked phone may block eSIM activation. If the phone was purchased with a mobile contract, contact your carrier to confirm whether the device is unlocked for international eSIM use.

When Should You Install eSIM for International Travel?

For most travel eSIM plans, the best time to install and activate your eSIM is close to your departure date or after you arrive at your destination. This helps avoid using service days before your trip begins.

In general, many travelers install the eSIM before departure while connected to home Wi-Fi, then activate mobile data and roaming after arriving at the destination. However, activation rules can vary by product, so always check the plan description.

Example: How Service Days Are Calculated

If you purchase a 1-day eSIM plan and activate it at 14:00 local time, the plan usually remains valid for 24 hours and expires at 14:00 the next day, depending on the product rules.

How to Set Up eSIM on Google Pixel

Follow the steps below to complete Google Pixel eSIM setup. These steps apply to many supported Pixel models, including Google Pixel 9, Pixel 8, Pixel 8a, Pixel 7, Pixel 6, and Pixel 6a. The wording may vary slightly depending on your Android version.

Step 1: Open Network Settings

Go to Settings > Network & Internet.

Step 2: Add a New SIM

Select the plus icon next to SIMs or Mobile network. Then choose Download a SIM instead or Don't have a SIM card?.

Step 3: Confirm You Want to Use eSIM

If your Pixel asks whether you want to use two SIMs, tap Yes. Then continue to download your eSIM profile.

Step 4: Scan Your eSIM QR Code

Use your Pixel camera to scan the QR code from your Flow Go eSIM order. Once the QR code is recognized, your Google Pixel will begin downloading the eSIM profile.

Step 5: Name Your eSIM Plan

After installation, you can rename the eSIM plan to make it easier to recognize. For example, you can name it Flow Go eSIM, Travel eSIM, or the destination name.

How to Activate eSIM on Google Pixel

After installation, you may need to activate the eSIM and turn on mobile data. This section is especially useful for searches such as Google Pixel 6 eSIM activation, Google Pixel 8 eSIM setup, and Google Pixel 9 eSIM activation.

Step 1: Select Your New eSIM

Go to Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs. Select your newly installed eSIM and turn on Use SIM or Use eSIM.

Step 2: Turn On Mobile Data

Choose your travel eSIM for mobile data. If your Pixel asks which SIM should be used for data, select your Flow Go eSIM.

Step 3: Turn On Data Roaming for Your Travel eSIM

For Flow Go eSIM travel data plans, data roaming usually needs to be turned on for the eSIM to connect to the local partner network.

Step 4: Restart Your Pixel If Needed

If the eSIM does not connect immediately, restart your Google Pixel and wait a few minutes. Your phone may need time to register on the destination network.

How to Use Dual SIM on Google Pixel

Many Google Pixel phones support dual SIM, usually with one physical SIM and one eSIM. This feature is useful when you want to keep your primary number active while using a travel eSIM for mobile data.

What Is Dual SIM Dual Standby?

Dual SIM Dual Standby, also called DSDS, allows your Pixel to keep two SIM lines available at the same time. You can choose one SIM for calls and SMS, and another SIM for mobile data.

Recommended Dual SIM Settings for Travel

• Use your primary SIM for calls and SMS if needed.
• Use your Flow Go eSIM for mobile data.
• Turn off data roaming on your primary SIM to avoid carrier roaming fees.
• Turn on data roaming on your travel eSIM if required by the plan.

5G and Dual SIM on Google Pixel

Some Google Pixel models support 5G while using dual SIM, but availability depends on your device, Android version, destination network, and the eSIM plan. If 5G is not available, your phone may connect to 4G/LTE instead.

Google Pixel eSIM Troubleshooting

If your Google Pixel eSIM is not working, try the following checks before contacting support.

Problem 1: The eSIM QR Code Does Not Scan

• Make sure your phone is connected to Wi-Fi.
• Increase screen brightness if scanning from another device.
• Check whether the QR code has already been used.
• Try manual installation if activation details are provided.

Problem 2: The eSIM Is Installed but No Internet Connection

• Make sure mobile data is turned on.
• Make sure data roaming is turned on for the travel eSIM.
• Check that the Flow Go eSIM is selected for mobile data.
• Restart your Google Pixel.
• Try manual network selection if the phone does not connect automatically.

Problem 3: Your Pixel Shows No Service

If your Pixel shows no service, your phone may not have connected to the correct local carrier yet. Go to mobile network settings and try selecting a network manually. Network availability depends on your destination, local carrier coverage, and the eSIM plan you purchased.

Problem 4: eSIM Option Is Missing on Your Pixel

If you do not see the eSIM option, your device may not support eSIM, may be carrier restricted, or may be a regional variant without eSIM support. Check our eSIM compatible devices list or contact support before purchasing a plan.

Google Pixel eSIM FAQ

Final Checklist Before Using eSIM on Google Pixel

If you are not sure whether your phone supports eSIM, check the Flow Go eSIM compatible devices list before purchasing your travel data plan.