Devices

Google Pixel eSIM: which models support it and how to set it up

Which Google Pixel phones support eSIM, how versions for different countries and carriers differ, what to check when buying a Pixel, and how to add a travel eSIM as a second line.

Published September 24, 2026 · Updated October 1, 2026 · 6 min read · MoreSim editorial team

Google Pixel phones support eSIM starting with the Pixel 3: according to Google, every generation since has a built-in eSIM, including the budget “a” series. The caveats concern some regional and carrier versions, so it’s worth checking your own phone. If you’re shopping for a Pixel with eSIM, look not just at the model but at the market it was made for and whether it’s carrier-locked.

Which Google Pixel models support eSIM?

Google Pixel phones support eSIM from the Pixel 3 onward, and every newer generation ships with a built-in eSIM. That’s what Google’s help pages say; that said, some versions for specific countries and carriers have had limited support.

The table is a rough guide by generation. If you’re buying a used or imported Pixel, check that specific phone: firmware, market and carrier matter as much as the model number.

How do I check if my Pixel supports eSIM?

You can check eSIM support on a Pixel in a minute, right on the phone. A listing description may refer to a different version, but the settings tell the truth.

1. Dial *#06# in the Phone app. If an EID is among the numbers, the eSIM chip is there.
2. Open Settings > Network & internet > SIMs.
3. Tap to add a SIM and see whether the phone offers to download an eSIM.
4. If you can’t find the section, type “eSIM” or “SIM” into the settings search.
5. Run the model through the automatic compatibility check in the @moresim_bot bot.

For more ways to check any phone, see our guide on how to tell if your phone supports eSIM.

Buying a Google Pixel with eSIM: what to look out for

Google Pixel isn’t sold officially everywhere — Russia is one example — so in those countries people buy versions made for other markets, often from sellers who import them. The main risk with such a purchase isn’t a missing eSIM but a carrier lock.

• Ask which country the phone was built for and whether it was sold through a carrier.
• Confirm the phone is unlocked. A Pixel sold on a carrier contract, especially in the US, can be tied to that carrier’s network.
• Find out whether your version has a nano-SIM tray. According to Google, US Pixel 10 models don’t, so there’ll be nowhere to put a physical home SIM.
• If you need your physical home SIM, pick a version with a slot, or check in advance whether your carrier issues eSIMs.
• Right after buying, check the EID and the option to add an eSIM.

How to add an eSIM to a Google Pixel, step by step

You add an eSIM to a Google Pixel under Network & internet, using a QR code. Menu names differ slightly between Android versions, so go by meaning: add a SIM, download a SIM.

1. Connect to stable Wi-Fi; the profile downloads over the internet.
2. Open Settings > Network & internet > SIMs.
3. Tap to add a SIM and choose the option to download an eSIM.
4. Scan the QR code. With MoreSim, it arrives in the chat about 30 seconds after payment.
5. Wait for the profile to download and confirm turning on the new line.
6. Give the line a clear name, such as your destination country.
7. On your trip, set the eSIM as your cellular data line and turn on data roaming for it: most travel eSIMs connect to a local carrier’s network as roaming SIMs, so without it you won’t get data.

There’s no need to remove your home SIM: the eSIM works as a second line. Turn off cellular data on your home SIM so your data doesn’t go through your home carrier. Keep the line itself on if you’re expecting bank texts: for that, your carrier has to offer roaming in the country. Detailed instructions for MoreSim plans are in our guide to installing and activating an eSIM.

How do you set up two lines on a Pixel for calls and data?

On a Pixel with two active lines, it’s handy to split the roles: data on the travel eSIM, calls and texts on your home number. You set this up in the same SIMs section.

• Mobile data — the travel eSIM, with data roaming turned on.
• Default for calls and texts — your home SIM, if you need bank codes.
• Mobile data on the home line — off.
• If you don’t need your home number on the trip, you can switch its line off temporarily without deleting it.

MoreSim plans are mobile data only, with no phone number. You can call through messaging apps where they aren’t restricted, and bank texts keep coming to your home SIM. Data amounts and validity for your destination are on its catalog page.

What if your Pixel has no data after installing an eSIM?

If your Pixel has no data after installing an eSIM, check the line settings first: that’s where the problem usually is, not in the profile.

• The travel eSIM is the one selected for mobile data.
• Data roaming is on for that line.
• The eSIM line is switched on, not just saved in the list.
• Airplane mode for half a minute helps the phone find the network again.
• Network selection is set to automatic.

If you’re planning to swap your Pixel for a new one right before the trip, buy the phone first and install the travel eSIM afterwards. Moving a profile between phones depends on who issued it and usually isn’t supported for travel plans, so it’s easier to install the plan straight onto the phone you’re traveling with.

If that doesn’t help, contact MoreSim — support via /support in the bot, a ticket in your account and email. Common Android cases are covered in our article on eSIM on Android.