Activate Google Fi on an iPhone with an eSIM
- June 7, 2024
Table of Contents
Activate Google Fi on an iPhone with an eSIM
You can activate Google Fi on iOS with an eSIM (electronic SIM card). An eSIM can be used in place of a physical SIM card to use Google Fi on an iPhone.
Eligibility: Google Fi on iOS with an eSIM only works on iPhones SE (2020 version), XR, XS, XS Max, and 11 and 12 series.
View a tutorial on how to set up your eSIM on iPhone.
Step 1: Join Fi and check iPhone compatibility
- Go to the Google Fi website.
- At the top right, tap Join Fi.
- Select your iPhone from a list of models.
- If you select “Latest models,” you can opt in to “Quick setup” to activate Fi on with an eSIM.
- If you select “Recent models” or “Older models,” follow the on-screen instructions.
Step 2: Go to the Google Fi iOS app
- If you haven’t downloaded it already, download the Google Fi iOS app.
- Once you opt in to eSIM activation on the Fi website, the Google Fi iOS app will perform device and iOS compatibility checks.
- If both are compatible, select Get started to begin eSIM activation.
- If either are incompatible, you’ll get an error. You’ll be asked to order a physical SIM or to upgrade your iOS.
Tip: Make sure to opt in to “Quick setup” on the Google Fi website before you activate from the Google Fi iOS app.
Step 3: Begin eSIM activation
- When you’ve confirmed your iPhone and iOS version are compatible with an eSIM, go to fi.google.com/ios/quicksetup on a separate device like a computer.
- Important: Go to this page on a separate device because you’ll need your iPhone to scan a QR code.
- If you are not already signed in to your account, you will be asked to sign in.
- Scan the QR code with the iPhone you want to activate Google Fi on and follow the on-screen instructions.
Tip: If the QR code doesn’t work, refresh the QR code page and scan the new QR code. If you need help, contact support.
Switch between a physical SIM card and an eSIM
If you are already a Fi user, you can switch between a physical SIM and an eSIM.
To switch from a physical SIM to an eSIM:
- Make sure your physical SIM is inserted.
- Delete and reinstall the Google Fi iOS app.
- Sign in to the app with your Fi account.
- When prompted, tap Download your SIM.
To switch from an eSIM to a physical SIM:
- Make sure you have an active eSIM and insert the physical SIM.
- Delete and reinstall the Google Fi iOS app.
- Sign in to the app with your Fi account.
- When prompted, tap Continue.
Tip: When you switch from a physical SIM to an eSIM, your iPhone may have multiple cellular profiles associated with your number. If you can’t make or receive calls, delete the old physical SIM cellular profile. For more information, visit support.apple.com.
Related resources
Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
Read User Manual Online (PDF format) >>