How to Transfer an eSIM to a New Android Phone

There is no single transfer method that applies to every Android phone. Recent Pixel and Galaxy devices can offer direct SIM transfer, but availability depends on the old phone, the new phone, their software and the mobile provider. Treat provider re-activation as the reliable fallback and keep the old line working until the new phone passes every test.

Prepare before changing the mobile service

• Update both phones and charge them.
• Connect them to stable Wi-Fi and turn on Bluetooth.
• Keep the old phone unlocked and signed in to the relevant Google or Samsung account.
• Confirm that the new phone's exact regional variant supports eSIM.
• Check the provider's current transfer or replacement process.
• Save recovery codes and confirm access to the provider account.
• Do not delete the old eSIM.

Method 1: use the Android setup journey

During setup, a compatible Android phone may offer to transfer a physical SIM or eSIM while it copies data from the old device. Follow the onscreen wording rather than assuming that every Android brand uses the same menus.

On supported Pixel software, the transfer can also be started later through Settings > Network & internet > SIMs > Add SIM > Transfer SIM from another device. The option appears only when the device and provider support it.

Method 2: use Samsung eSIM Instant Transfer

On a supported Galaxy device, open Settings > Connections > SIM manager > Add eSIM and look for the transfer option. The old phone may display a request and a verification code. Samsung lists only certain networks for direct transfer, so a visible menu does not guarantee that the UK provider and account are eligible.

Keep both devices on Wi-Fi with Bluetooth enabled. The new Galaxy must also be able to use the network; a lock, unsupported regional variant or managed business configuration can stop the process.

Method 3: ask the provider to issue the service again

If direct transfer is unavailable, the provider may supply a replacement eSIM through its app, online account, customer service or a new QR code. This is not a failure or an inferior result. The provider is securely assigning the number and plan to the new device.

Old QR codes are not a dependable backup. Some are single-use, some expire and some can be regenerated only after account verification.

Do not confuse data transfer with SIM transfer

Copying photographs, apps and messages does not automatically move the mobile service. Likewise, transferring the eSIM does not guarantee that every app, authenticator token or banking approval has moved. Treat these as separate checks.

After the eSIM activates

1. Confirm that the correct number and provider appear in SIM settings.
2. Select the intended default SIM for calls, messages and mobile data.
3. Turn off Wi-Fi and test a normal web page.
4. Make an ordinary call to a non-emergency number.
5. Send and receive a standard text message if supported by the plan.
6. Check incoming calls and important account verification methods.

If transfer fails

• Record the exact error message before trying again.
• Restart both phones and confirm Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and software updates.
• Check whether the provider lists the exact device combination.
• Use the provider's replacement-eSIM route rather than repeatedly deleting and re-adding profiles.
• Avoid factory reset: it rarely fixes provider provisioning and can create a second data-recovery problem.

Never use 999 or 112 to test the result. If the new phone cannot make an ordinary call, contact the provider while the old phone and account access are still available.