How to Activate eSIM in London

This eSIM activation guide provides step-by-step instructions that will help you activate your Lyca Mobile eSIM on an iPhone or Android device. If you are about to visit London, or you are already here, follow these steps and your new SIM Card can be up and running in a matter of minutes.!

Before getting started, you will need to verify, that your smartphone is capable of running an eSIM program, via the manufacturer's website. Many smartphones that have been launched in the last few years are equipped with eSIM technology. Here is a partial list of some of the newer smartphones that do have eSIM capabilities, as of November 2020:

• Apple: iPhones with models from XS and XR upwards (15 and 16).
• Samsung Galaxy: S20, S21, S22, S23 and S24 series.
• Google Pixel: Pixel 3 and later.
• Others: Many recent Motorola, OnePlus and Huawei Androids.

Get the Best eSIM Plans – Instant Activation, No SIM Needed

To verify that your eSIM is active, check the network/connections menu in your phone's settings for "eSIM", "Add Mobile Plan" or "Add Cellular Plan". If you are not sure about your phone being locked to a SIM, contact your current provider for assistance. If your phone is not unlocked, it will not work on another carrier’s eSIM.

Note: For your eSIM installation and activation an internet connection via Wi-Fi is required. Ensure there is stable internet connection, e.g. airport/hotel Wi-Fi, before commencing.

Steps to obtain your Lyca Mobile eSIM in London

Obtaining your Lyca Mobile eSIM can be accomplished quickly, all through 100% digital channels. Here’s how to do it:

Choose the plan you wish to sign up for by visiting Lyca Mobile eSIM and selecting either a Pay As You Go eSIM or Pay Monthly SIM only deals option. Lyca Mobile provides superb value for money with its combination of data, call and text allowances.

Purchase the eSIM online - Once you reach the checkout, select the eSIM option and pay online. There is no need to wait for the item to arrive via postal mail, as all transactions will be completed online.

Current eSIM QR code - An email containing your eSIM QR code will be sent to you with the activation steps, make sure to keep this safe as it will be needed in the next steps.

Turn on your Device - To turn on your phone, follow the steps below according to your phone's manufacturer.

To Activate Your eSIM on iPhone (UK)

If using an iOS Device, your eSIM can be activated easily through your camera or scanning the QR code within the app to activate via the app.

Method 1 -  – Scan the QR Code Using Your Camera (Recommended)

Step 1 - Ensure that your Wi-Fi connection is active and open the camera app on your smart device.

Step 2 - Point the camera at the Lyca Mobile QR code and follow the instructions displayed on the screen.

Step 3 - Now the iPhone will show you steps that help you verify and add your eSIM. Once this is done, you will see the “Add Cellular plan” option; press this when prompted.

Step 4 - Assign your Lyca Mobile eSIM a name (like Lyca UK) and set your eSIM as the cellular data default.

Method 2 - Set Up eSIM via Settings (If you cannot scan the QR code)

• Go to settings.
• Select Mobile Data (or Cellular), select “Add eSIM” or “Add Cellular Plan”.
• The camera will open to allow you to use the camera as an eSIM on your device via the QR code provided by Lyca Mobile.

Your new eSIM will activate in just seconds to a few minutes after being received; you will know that it has activated because Lyca Mobile will appear in your signal bar. On iOS 18 devices, adding an eSIM is done by going to the Settings app > Mobile Data > Add eSIM. If you're using an older version of iOS, the eSIM menu will display under Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan.

Activating eSIM on An Android Device in London

Although the exact process of activating an eSIM will vary slightly depending on the manufacturer of the phones, the general guidelines will remain the same regardless of whether your phone is a Samsung, Google Pixel, Motorola, etc.

Samsung / General Android

To activate your new eSIM from Lyca Mobile, please follow these steps:

1. Navigate to the "Settings" menu on your phone.
2. Tap on "Connections", then "SIM Card Manager".
3. Tap on "Add Mobile Plan" or "Add eSIM".
4. Select "Scan Carrier QR Code" and point your camera at the Lyca Mobile QR code provided to you.
5. Follow all on-screen instructions to complete the process. You will see that your new Lyca Mobile eSIM will be activated right away.

Google Pixel

1. Open the "Settings" app, then access "Network & Internet" and tap the "+" or "Add" icon on the "SIMs" screen.
2. Select "Download a SIM", tap "Next", and scan your Lyca Mobile QR code using your camera.
3. Follow the directions shown on the device to confirm your plan information and then tap "Activate" once you are ready to proceed with activation.

After Your Activation: Things To Do Next

Check if you have a good signal. Lyca Mobile operates on EE - which has some of the best coverage in Greater London and is one of the best networks available in the UK.

Get the My Lyca App. Use the My Lyca app to monitor how much data you are using, to add more, and to manage your plan. It's free to download.

If applicable, turn on data roaming. There are good value roaming plans available from Lyca Mobile while traveling throughout Europe that will allow you to remain in contact wherever you are located.

Select your primary line. If you have a physical SIM card in addition to your Lyca Mobile SIM card, you must mark Lyca Mobile as the primary data line in your phone's settings.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does eSIM activation take in London?

Normally, it won't take much more than a few minutes for activation to occur. However, there may be some rare circumstances where activating will take up to 24 hours due to the network environment. If you are at an airport, connect to Wi-Fi in the terminal so that activation will probably happen immediately.

Is it possible to maintain an existing mobile number when activating my new Lyca Mobile eSIM?

Yes, you can transfer your existing mobile number from your current UK provider to your new Lyca Mobile eSIM by requesting a PAC Code (Porting Authorisation Code) from your current provider and providing this to Lyca Mobile when activating your plan.

Can I use an eSIM and a physical SIM at the same time?

Generally, most current model smartphones allow for the use of two SIMs. That means you can use eSIM and physical SIM together at the same time. This is useful when you want to maintain your home country's number while using Lyca Mobile as your local UK data/calling provider.

My eSIM QR code isn't scanning. What should I do?

Try entering this information yourself, go to the settings on your phone to the eSIM feature and select "Manually enter details." You will have needed to have received both the SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code in the welcome email from Lyca Mobile. If you are unable to do this, please contact support.

Is a Lyca Mobile eSIM a good option for tourists visiting London?

You can use Lyca Mobile's PAYG plans if you're a visitor, since they don't require any contracts, have great value data allowances, and require no activation fees. In fact, you'll be able to receive your UK phone number and have data available to use before you leave the airport (for example, at baggage claim).