Can’t get your stupid phone scanner to read the bloody eSIM QR code? We hear you. QR codes are awesome when they work, but a hassle when things don’t click. No need to stress. ZenSim keeps things chill with two easy, alternate ways to install your eSIM, each taking only a few minutes from start to finish.
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Here’s everything you need to know about installing an eSIM without a QR code, including an exciting new option: the legendary one-click install.
WHAT ARE QR CODE INSTALLATIONS?
The QR code has long been an eSIM mainstay for its speed and simplicity.
All you do is open your eSIM confirmation email on a separate device and scan the QR code with your phone. The installation initiates, and you follow a few prompts to finalise the process. The whole thing takes under 5 minutes and is designed to be frictionless.
But the QR solution isn’t perfect. Some people may struggle to operate the scanner app, while others may not have access to a second device. Scanning a QR code on the same phone through a screenshot is theoretically possible, but it brings a whole new set of challenges.
Then sometimes, for some weird, inexplicable reason, QR scanners just won’t work – urgh.
Our recommended workaround is the one-click install, and it now works on Apple and Android phones.
WHAT ARE ONE-CLICK ESIM INSTALLS?
True to its name, a one-click install lets you set up your travel eSIM with a single tap.
No more faffing about with QR codes. Hit the button, and you’re done. Wham, bam, thank you, ma'am.
HOW LONG HAVE ONE-CLICK INSTALLS BEEN AROUND?
Apple began offering one-click eSIM installs back in 2024 with the release of iOS 17.4. That update allowed apps and weblinks to send a fancy ‘Universal Link’ to your iPhone, which automatically triggers the native iOS eSIM installation procedure.
Android launched the feature in January 2026, using a similar ‘Universal Link’ that allows one-click eSIM installs directly via a web link. You’ll need Android 10 or later and the latest Google Mobile Services (GMS).
IS IT REALLY ONE CLICK?
The actual eSIM installation part is a legit one-click job. It literally couldn’t be easier, at least until telepathic installs become a thing.
That said, you will have to create an account and download the ZenSim mobile app, which involves a few more clicks or taps. But we promise the process is super simple. Plus, you’ll want the ZenSim app anyway to track your data usage while on the road.
HOW TO DO A ONE-CLICK ESIM INSTALLATION
Here’s the full process from start to finish.
- Select and pay for your eSIM
- Click the ‘download our ZenSim app’ link in your confirmation email
- Log into the app and click the ‘INSTALL ESIM’ button.
That’s it. Easy peasy lemon squeezy.
Behind the scenes, a crew of teeny-weeny microtransistors lurking inside your phone will rapidly process millions of 1’s and 0’s, installing your eSIM without you lifting a finger (or more than one finger). Isn’t technology wonderful?
ONE-CLICK INSTALL REQUIREMENTS
Here’s what you’ll need for one-click installs:
- iOS 17.4 / Android 10 (or later)
- The latest Google Mobile Services (Android only)
- A cool, tech-savvy eSIM provider like ZenSim.
- The mobile app of your cool, tech-savvy eSIM provider.
WHY CAN’T I DO A ONE-CLICK INSTALL?
If your phone is compatible, you will see the ‘DOWNLOAD ESIM’ button under the‘Direct’ tab. If you don’t see that button, your phone doesn’t support one-click installs. Sorry.
Don’t get too bummed out, though. You can still do a simple eSIM manual setup. ‘Manual’ sounds like a chore, but it’s actually really easy.
HOW TO INSTALL AN ESIM MANUALLY
We’ve included a manual eSIM activation option for users who are struggling with one-click and/or QR code installs.
With this approach, you navigate to Settings, Connections, SIM card manager, tap Add mobile plan, then Scan the carrier QR code (no actual scanning required). Next, you tap Enter Activation Code, then copy-paste your code and hit Connect.
GET CONNECTED THE EASY WAY WITH ZENSIM
Don’t let a stupid f%$^#@ QR code scanner ruin your day. ZenSim lets you get set up the easy way with a zippy one-click install (or a quick, hassle-free manual install).
Once you’re done, rest assured that your eSIM will spring into action automatically upon touchdown. Now all you need to worry about is what to pack for your epic overseas adventure.
Still struggling to set up your eSIM? See our eSIM installation guide, or the individual walk throughs for Apple, Samsung, Motorola, Google, and Xiaomi smartphones. You can also visit our helpdesk for more handy device-specific tips or to get in touch with us.
FAQs
The best way to install an eSIM without a QR code is using the one-click install feature. Some eSIM brands, such as ZenSim, offer this time-saving feature, although many do not. Alternatively, you can research how to add an eSIM manually.
To activate your eSIM using an activation code, go to Settings > Connections > SIM card manager > Add mobile plan > Scan the carrier QR code > Enter Activation Code. Next, copy and paste your code, then hit Connect.
One-click installations have been available on iPhone since 2024. If your eSIM doesn't offer this feature, the best alternative is a manual install with an activation code.
Android just began supporting one-click installs in January 2026. That means only cool, cutting-edge eSIM brands (like ZenSim) offer this feature. If one-click isn't available, we recommend installing manually using an activation code.
To do a manual eSIM activation, you will need to copy your activation code onto your clipboard. You will also need to provide your personal details when creating an account.
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Written by
Harry Stewart
Australia-based content writer, fully-grown eater of party pies.
Harry is a remote-working article contributor zipping between picturesque places in his rusty, clapped-out motorhome. When he’s not patching holes in the roof, you’ll find him hiking national parks, researching eSIM plans, or dreaming of his next overseas getaway.
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