eSIM Setup and Management Guide
Welcome to the future of mobile connectivity! eSIM (embedded SIM) technology allows you to activate your StarHub service without a physical SIM card. This guide covers everything you need to know about eSIM.
What is eSIM?
An eSIM is a digital SIM that's built into your device. Instead of inserting a physical card, you download a digital profile to activate your mobile service.
Benefits of eSIM
- Instant Activation - No waiting for SIM delivery
- Dual SIM Capability - Use two numbers on one device
- Easy Switching - Change plans without changing cards
- Travel Friendly - Add local plans when abroad
- Environmentally Friendly - No plastic waste
Device Compatibility
eSIM Compatible Devices
Brand | Models |
---|---|
Apple | iPhone XS and newer, iPad Pro (2018+), iPad Air (2019+), iPad Mini (2019+) |
Samsung | Galaxy S20 series and newer, Galaxy Fold series, Galaxy Note20 and newer |
Pixel 3 and newer | |
Oppo | Find X3 Pro, Find X5 series |
Others | Selected Huawei, Xiaomi, and Motorola models |
๐ฑ Check Compatibility: Dial *#06# on your phone. If you see an EID number, your device supports eSIM.
Getting Your eSIM
For New Lines
- Online Purchase
- Select eSIM option during sign-up
- Complete identity verification
- Receive QR code via email
- In-Store Activation
- Bring your eSIM-compatible device
- Staff will generate QR code
- Instant activation
Converting Physical SIM to eSIM
- Ensure your device is eSIM compatible
- Open StarHub app
- Go to Manage > SIM Services
- Select "Convert to eSIM"
- Follow verification steps
- Receive eSIM QR code
- Physical SIM deactivates after eSIM activation
eSIM Installation Guide
iPhone Setup
- Prepare for Installation
- Connect to WiFi
- Have QR code ready
- Ensure iOS is updated
- Add eSIM
- Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan
- Scan QR code with camera
- Label your line (e.g., "StarHub", "Personal")
- Choose default line for calls, messages, data
- Activation
- Wait for "Activating..." to complete
- Restart if prompted
- Check signal bars appear
Android Setup
- Access eSIM Settings
- Settings > Network & Internet
- Tap + next to Mobile Network
- Select "Download a SIM instead?"
- Scan and Install
- Tap "Next" and scan QR code
- Confirm download
- Name your eSIM profile
- Configure Settings
- Enable the new eSIM
- Set as default for data if desired
- Configure dual SIM preferences
Manual Entry Option
If QR code scanning fails:
- Choose "Enter Details Manually"
- Enter SM-DP+ Address:
prod.esim.starhub.com
- Enter Activation Code from email/SMS
- Complete setup as normal
Managing Multiple Profiles
Dual SIM Usage
Common Setups:
- Personal + Work: Separate numbers on one device
- Local + Travel: Keep home number while using local data
- Voice + Data: Different plans for calls and internet
Switching Between Lines
Action | iPhone | Android |
---|---|---|
Switch data line | Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data | Settings > Network > SIM cards > Mobile data |
Choose line for call | Tap line name before dialing | Select SIM in dialer |
Default messaging line | Settings > Messages > Send & Receive | Messages app settings |
Transferring eSIM
To a New Device
- iPhone to iPhone (iOS 16+)
- During new phone setup, select "Transfer from Nearby iPhone"
- On old phone, go to Settings > Cellular
- Tap "Transfer eSIM" and follow prompts
- Other Transfers
- Request new QR code from StarHub app
- Old eSIM automatically deactivates
- Install on new device as fresh setup
Backup and Recovery
- eSIM profiles are tied to device
- Not included in standard backups
- Keep QR code/activation details safe
- Can regenerate via StarHub app if needed
Troubleshooting eSIM Issues
Common Problems
"Unable to Complete Cellular Plan Change"
- Check internet connection is stable
- Restart device and try again
- Ensure QR code hasn't expired (valid 24 hours)
- Try manual entry method
"No Service" After Installation
- Toggle Airplane Mode on/off
- Check if eSIM is enabled in settings
- Restart device
- Wait up to 2 hours for activation
- Contact support if issue persists
eSIM Not Showing in Settings
- Verify device compatibility
- Update to latest OS version
- Check if carrier settings update available
- Reset network settings
eSIM Best Practices
Security Tips
- Don't share QR codes publicly
- Delete QR code images after use
- Use device lock screen protection
- Enable Find My Device features
Travel Considerations
- Screenshot important settings before travel
- Know how to switch between profiles
- Can add travel eSIM without removing StarHub
- Data roaming settings apply per line
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch back to physical SIM?
Yes, visit any StarHub shop with your ID. We'll provide a new physical SIM and deactivate the eSIM.
How many eSIM profiles can I store?
Most devices can store 5-10 profiles, but only 1-2 can be active simultaneously.
Does eSIM work internationally?
Yes, eSIM works wherever StarHub has roaming agreements, just like physical SIM.
Is eSIM more secure?
Yes, eSIM cannot be physically removed if your device is stolen, making it more secure.
Need Help? Our eSIM support team is available 24/7. Chat with us on the StarHub app or call 1633.