"Unable to Activate eSIM" or "Activation Failure" iPhone or iPad (iOS) error message

When outside of destination country or region.

Sometimes, an eSIM can or might get stuck when activating on an iOS device. This usually happens if you've installed the eSIM but haven't yet arrived in your destination country or region. Eg. you are still at home.

This error message can be confusing, as it says "Unable to Activate eSIM"

✨ All eSIM setup works in 2 phases:

1. The install (the scanning of the QR code or clicking the iOS link in the email)
2. The activation (behind the scenes stuff that connects the eSIM to the destination network/s)

Cause: Apple made a change during iOS 16.4 (and onwards), where it no longer requires eSIM customers to manually toggle Data Roaming "ON" for their eSIM in order to connect to supported networks. Basically newer Apple iOS attempts to install and activate the eSIM in one go, which causes the confusing message.

💡 If you notice the screen getting stuck "activating" too long — Turn "on" airplane mode for 15–30 seconds and then turn airplane mode "off", this will force the iPhone to stop trying to activate.

🫂 Don’t worry — the eSIM is already installed, even if it shows "Unable to activate eSIM.". Your eSIM will activate once you reach your destination and are within the network coverage area.

🛠️ Here’s what to do:

• (Optional step) Restart your phone and leave the AirSim eSIM line OFF until you’re in the destination country.
• (Must do) Once you arrive in a destination country or region that supports the AirSims eSIM — verify the eSIM is "ON" and roaming for the eSIM is "ON". Once your device is in the network area, the eSIM should activate.
• If the eSIM fails to activate, ensure you have cellular signal and reboot the iPhone/iPad. If it is still failing to activate — try connecting to a public Wi-Fi as a last resort to finalise the activation. If it still doesn't work, contact AirSims support via chat (bottom right corner), contact page or via Facebook Messenger.

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🛠️ Setting networks MANUALLY if networks fail to auto connect/detect

(ANY COUNTRY)

✨ Apple iOS

✨ Android (2 different versions)