How eSIMs Work
Install, activate, and manage your PurrMobile eSIM on iPhone or Android in minutes.
After checkout, you can install from either your confirmation email or your order status page quick links—both provide the same one-tap install options, QR code, and manual details.
Before You Start
- Your device supports eSIM and is unlocked.
- The device is not jailbroken (iOS) or rooted (Android).
- You have a stable Wi-Fi or cellular connection for activation.
- Data-only service: calls/SMS use apps (e.g., WhatsApp, iMessage, FaceTime, WeChat). Emergency calling (e.g., 911) is not supported.
- Turn VPN off during installation/activation.
- You can install before you travel; validity typically starts on first network connection (unless your plan states otherwise).
- Hotspot/Tethering is supported on most plans (see the plan card for exceptions).
- Some regions restrict VoIP (e.g., UAE/Oman); certain services may be limited by local policy.
1. Choose Your Plan
Visit Data Plans to browse plans by country, region, or global coverage. Choose between Fixed Data and Unlimited options.
| Feature | Fixed Data Plans | Unlimited Data Plans |
|---|---|---|
| Data Allowance | A specific amount (e.g., 3 GB, 5 GB, 10 GB) | A daily high-speed allowance |
| After Limit | Data pauses until you top up | Speed reduces to your plan's FUP (Fair Use Policy) rate; high-speed resets at local midnight (varies by country/network) |
| Top-Up | Available | Not available |
| Best For | Short trips & predictable usage | Heavier use & longer stays |
| Renewal | Top up or buy a new plan | Buy a new plan when you need more high-speed or days |
| Hotspot/Tethering | Usually supported | Usually supported; may be deprioritized vs. on-device data on some networks |
Important: FUP varies by plan/region/carrier. See your plan card for the exact daily high-speed amount and reduced speed.
Tip: Traveling to multiple countries? Choose a regional or global plan to avoid switching eSIMs.
iPhone (iOS 17.4+)
- On your iPhone, open your PurrMobile confirmation email or your order status page.
- Tap Install eSIM / Add eSIM to iPhone.
- Confirm the prompt and wait for automatic installation.
- Label the new line (e.g., PurrMobile Data).
Android (supported devices)
- On your Android phone, open your PurrMobile confirmation email/SMS or your order status page.
- Tap Install eSIM / Add eSIM.
- Follow the Android prompts to add and activate the eSIM profile.
- Label the new line (e.g., PurrMobile Data) if prompted.
Tips:
- Set Mobile Data to PurrMobile and keep your primary line for calls/SMS if needed.
- You can rename the line anytime in Settings → Cellular (iPhone) or SIM settings (Android).
- Android quick install support depends on OS/device vendor version.
- If you can't find the email, use the same install quick links from your order status page.
iPhone (iOS 13+)
- Open your email or order install page on another screen (laptop/tablet) so your phone can scan the QR.
- Go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM (or Settings → Mobile Data → Add eSIM).
- Choose Use QR Code and scan the code from your email or install page.
- Wait for installation, then label it PurrMobile Data.
Tips:
- Keep your primary SIM active if you want to receive calls/SMS from your home number.
- If you see "Activation Failed," toggle Airplane Mode ON/OFF, then try again.
- If 5G is unstable, temporarily switch to LTE/4G.
Android (varies by model)
- Go to Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs (or Connections → SIM Manager).
- Tap Add eSIM → Scan QR code from carrier.
- Scan the QR code from your email or install page and confirm installation.
- If prompted, enable Mobile Data and Data Roaming for PurrMobile.
Tips:
- On some phones the path is Settings → Connections → Mobile Networks → eSIM.
- If connection fails, toggle Airplane Mode, then try again.
- If 5G is unstable, switch to LTE/4G.
- Find the SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code in your email or order install page.
- On your phone, choose Enter details manually (Add eSIM → manual).
- Enter the credentials exactly as shown and confirm installation.
Note: APN is automatic for most plans. If manual APN is required, details are included in your confirmation email and install page.
3. Activate & Connect
- In Settings → Cellular / Mobile Data, enable your PurrMobile eSIM.
- Set Mobile Data = PurrMobile.
- Turn Data Roaming ON for PurrMobile.
- To avoid charges from your home carrier, turn Data Roaming OFF on your physical SIM.
- Wait a few seconds—signal bars will appear once connected.
If it doesn't connect:
- Toggle Airplane Mode ON/OFF or restart the device.
- Turn VPN off.
- Ensure Date & Time → Set Automatically.
- On Android, use Select network automatically (disable manual carrier selection).
4. Manage Your Data
Fixed Data Plans
- Track usage in Settings → Mobile Data / Cellular Usage.
- Use your PurrMobile order page/account dashboard to view data, top up instantly, and check plan expiry.
- If data reaches zero, service pauses until you top up.
Unlimited Data Plans
- Enjoy daily high-speed data (see your plan for the amount).
- After you reach it, speeds reduce to your plan's FUP rate.
- Daily high-speed resets at local midnight (country/network time).
- Unlimited plans can't be topped up; buy a new plan when you need more high-speed or days.
- This Fair Use Policy (FUP) ensures fair network performance for all travelers.
Dual SIM Tips (iPhone & Android)
- Keep your home SIM active for calls/SMS; set Mobile Data = PurrMobile.
- On iPhone: Settings → Cellular → Cellular Data Switching = Off to force PurrMobile for all data.
- Assign PurrMobile to Cellular Data Only; keep your primary line for Calls & SMS.
- iMessage/FaceTime continue over data with your Apple ID; standard SMS uses your primary line.
Transfers, Deletion & Device Changes
- eSIMs are single-use and become device-locked after activation; deleting an eSIM usually can't be undone.
- Changing phones? Do not remove the eSIM—Contact Us first for options.
- Factory resets may remove eSIMs; back up first.
- Lost or replaced device? Contact Us with your order number before making changes.
Coverage, Speed & Network Tech
- Connect to top local carriers; 5G where available, with fallbacks to 4G/LTE (and occasionally 3G).
- Real-world speeds vary by location, network load, device, and time of day.
- Some countries restrict VoIP and certain services.
When Does My Plan Start?
- Most plans start when your eSIM first connects to a local network at your destination.
- Some plans start at installation; if so, we'll clearly label this on the plan card and in your email.
Policy & Help Shortcuts
- See Terms of Service for refunds/exchanges of digital goods.
- See Acceptable Use Policy for FUP details and prohibited activities.
- Need help? Visit the Help Center or Contact Us with your order number.