OnePlus eSIM Setup Guide: Step-by-Step Instructions

OnePlus has officially joined the growing list of smartphone brands offering eSIM support, starting with its latest flagship devices. With this feature, OnePlus users can now enjoy the freedom of connecting to mobile networks without needing a physical SIM card.

eSIM technology gives you the flexibility to switch carriers, manage multiple plans, and stay connected anywhere all through your phone’s settings. Whether you’re setting up a new line, transferring an existing one, or adding a travel plan, activating an eSIM on your OnePlus phone is fast and secure.

This guide covers everything you need to know: supported OnePlus models, setup methods (QR code, carrier app, transfer, and manual activation), how to manage multiple eSIM profiles, and troubleshooting tips. You’ll also find the latest Circles.Life 4G and 5G plans that are compatible with OnePlus devices.

What is an eSIM and Why Use It on OnePlus Phones?

An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital SIM built directly into your OnePlus phone. Instead of inserting a physical card, you can download your carrier’s mobile plan over the internet.

Benefits of using eSIM on OnePlus:

• Convenient activation: Set up your mobile plan in minutes from your phone’s settings.

• Flexibility: Add multiple plans or switch carriers without handling physical SIMs.

• Dual SIM advantage: Use an eSIM alongside a physical SIM to manage two numbers, ideal for balancing work and personal use.

• Travel-friendly: Activate a local eSIM plan abroad while keeping your main number active.

• Eco-conscious: eSIM helps reduce waste from plastic SIM cards and packaging.

Did you know? OnePlus introduced eSIM capability starting with select OnePlus 11 models, and the feature now extends to newer releases like the OnePlus 12 and OnePlus Open, offering full 5G compatibility.

Check if Your OnePlus Phone Supports eSIM

Before starting your eSIM setup, it’s important to confirm that your device supports this feature. While eSIM is becoming standard in OnePlus flagships, some older or region-specific models may not include it yet. See below for the OnePlus eSIM phone list.

OnePlus phones that support eSIM (as of 2025):

• OnePlus 12 and OnePlus 12R

• OnePlus 11

• OnePlus Open (Foldable)

• OnePlus Nord 3 (region-dependent)

• Upcoming OnePlus 13 Series

To check if your OnePlus phone supports eSIM:

1. Open Settings.

2. Tap Mobile network.

3. Select SIM & network.

4. If you see an option for eSIM or Add eSIM, your phone supports eSIM activation.

Note: Availability can vary depending on your software version, region, or carrier. If you don’t see the eSIM option, ensure your phone’s software is updated to the latest version or contact your carrier for confirmation.

How to Activate eSIM on OnePlus Phones

Scan a QR Code from Your Carrier

The easiest way to activate eSIM on your OnePlus device is by scanning a QR code provided by your carrier. Once scanned, your phone automatically downloads and activates your eSIM profile.

Step-by-step guide:

1. Go to Settings → Mobile network → SIM & network → eSIM.

2. Tap Add eSIM.

3. Choose Scan QR code.

4. Use your camera to scan the QR code sent by your carrier (via email, SMS, or app).

5. Follow the on-screen steps to install your eSIM profile.

6. Once complete, your carrier’s plan will appear under SIM & network.

Before you begin:

• Ensure you have an active eSIM plan from your carrier.

• Keep a stable Wi-Fi or mobile data connection for activation.

• Have your QR code ready (check your email or carrier app).

• Make sure your OnePlus phone is charged above 30% to prevent interruptions.

Tip: If you can’t scan the QR code directly, you can usually select Enter activation code manually and input the details provided by your carrier.

Set Up eSIM with Carrier App

If your carrier provides a mobile app, you can activate your eSIM directly from it — no QR code needed. This is one of the most seamless ways to get connected, especially for Circles.Life customers.

To activate via your carrier app:

1. Download your carrier’s official app from the Google Play Store (e.g., Circles.Life app).

2. Log in using your registered mobile number or account details.

3. Look for an option such as Activate eSIM or Set Up eSIM.

4. Follow the guided steps within the app to install the eSIM profile on your device.

5. Wait for the app to confirm successful activation — your eSIM plan will appear under Settings → Mobile network → SIM & network.

Before you start:

• Make sure your OnePlus device runs the latest OxygenOS version.

• Have your carrier account details ready.

• Ensure a stable Wi-Fi or data connection during activation.

• Keep your phone charged above 30%.

• Some carriers may send a one-time password (OTP) to verify your identity before installation.

Did you know? Carrier app activations are often faster than QR scans because the eSIM details are installed automatically — no need to switch screens or enter codes manually.

Transfer eSIM from Another Device

If you’re moving to a new OnePlus phone, you can transfer your existing eSIM from your previous device. This is especially helpful when upgrading to models like the OnePlus 12 or OnePlus Open.

Steps to transfer your eSIM:

1. Place both devices side by side and connect them to Wi-Fi.

2. On your new OnePlus, go to Settings → Mobile network → SIM & network → eSIM.

3. Tap Add eSIM → Transfer from another device.

4. On your old phone, confirm the transfer when prompted.

5. Wait for the setup to complete — this typically takes a few minutes.

6. Once done, your eSIM plan will appear automatically on your new OnePlus.

Before you begin:

• Both devices must support eSIM and run the latest software versions.

• Keep both phones connected to Wi-Fi throughout the process.

• Check that your carrier supports eSIM transfers (most major providers do).

• Don’t remove or reset the old eSIM until the transfer is complete.

Fun fact: OnePlus’s newer models can now transfer eSIM profiles just like physical SIM swaps, eliminating the need to contact your carrier for reactivation.

Manual eSIM Activation on OnePlus

If your carrier provides a manual activation code instead of a QR code or app-based setup, you can install your eSIM profile manually. This method is common for business users or travelers activating an international plan.

Step-by-step guide:

1. Open Settings → Mobile network → SIM & network → eSIM.

2. Tap Add eSIM.

3. Select Enter details manually instead of scanning a QR code.

4. Enter the SM-DP+ address and activation code provided by your carrier.

5. Tap Next and wait for the installation to complete.

6. Once your eSIM is active, you’ll see it listed under SIM & network in your settings.

Before you start:

• Get your carrier’s activation details (SM-DP+ address, activation code, and confirmation code if required).

• Make sure you have a strong Wi-Fi or data connection.

• Check that your device software is up to date.

• Keep your phone charged above 30% to prevent interruptions.

Did you know? Manual activation is often used by travelers because it allows them to install a local eSIM plan before they even land, ensuring instant connectivity upon arrival.

Manage Multiple eSIM Profiles on OnePlus

OnePlus makes it easy to store and manage multiple eSIM profiles on a single device. This is ideal if you use different numbers for work, personal use, or travel.

How eSIM management works:

• OnePlus phones can store several eSIM profiles, but only one can be active at a time.

• You can rename each profile to make it easier to identify — for example, “Work,” “Travel,” or “Circles.Life.”

• Switching between profiles only takes a few seconds through your phone settings.

To switch or manage eSIMs:

1. Go to Settings → Mobile network → SIM & network → eSIM.

2. Select the eSIM profile you want to activate.

3. Tap Turn On to enable or Turn Off to deactivate.

4. Choose your preferred SIM for calls, messages, and data.

Tips for using multiple eSIMs:

• Keep one eSIM active for data at a time to prevent network overlap.

• Rename each eSIM to quickly tell them apart.

• Deactivate your primary eSIM while traveling to avoid roaming charges.

• Keep backup copies of your QR codes or activation details for easy reinstallation.

Did you know? The latest OxygenOS update allows OnePlus users to use an eSIM and a physical SIM simultaneously, giving you true dual SIM flexibility.

Latest 4G & 5G eSIM Plans for OnePlus Phones

All Circles.Life plans are fully compatible with eSIM-enabled OnePlus devices, offering fast setup, flexible data options, and reliable 4G/5G connectivity.

Last updated: 16 October 2025

Tip: You can activate your Circles.Life plan through the carrier app or by scanning the QR code emailed to you after purchase. Both methods work seamlessly with OnePlus phones.

Troubleshooting eSIM on OnePlus

Setting up an eSIM on OnePlus is usually smooth, but minor issues can occasionally occur. Most are simple to fix.

Common eSIM issues and quick fixes:

• QR Code Not Scanning

  • Make sure the code is sharp and fully visible.

  • Clean your camera lens and increase lighting.

  • Try opening the QR code on another device for easier scanning.

• Activation Failed

  • Check that your eSIM plan is active with your carrier.

  • Verify your Wi-Fi or data connection is stable.

  • Restart your phone and try the setup again.

  • If the issue persists, delete the partial eSIM profile and re-add it.

• No Signal After Activation

  • Go to Settings → Mobile network → Network operators and refresh available networks.

  • Toggle Airplane mode on and off to reset your connection.

  • Ensure your carrier’s APN settings are correct.

If your eSIM profile fails to install or repeatedly disconnects, reach out to your carrier’s customer support. They can reissue a QR code or confirm whether your device IMEI is registered for eSIM use.

Final Thoughts: OnePlus and the Future of eSIM

With eSIM technology now supported on the latest OnePlus phones, setting up your mobile plan has never been easier. Gone are the days of juggling SIM trays or visiting a store for activation — everything can now be done digitally, straight from your device.

eSIM gives OnePlus users the freedom to switch networks, manage multiple profiles, and stay connected wherever they go. Whether you’re adding a new data plan for travel or managing two numbers on one device, the process is quick, secure, and completely hassle-free.

Circles.Life’s 4G and 5G eSIM plans work seamlessly with OnePlus phones, offering instant activation and flexible data options. With growing support across more OnePlus models each year, eSIM is quickly becoming the standard for effortless connectivity.