Can my eSIM QR code be reused?

If you are thinking of switching the eSIM from an older to a new device, you might need clarification about reusing the QR code to activate the eSIM. Installing eSIM on your new device with the same QR code doesn’t work and causes activation errors. QR codes are designed for one-time use to avoid security concerns and confirm the device identification. It's better to avoid reusing the same QR code. You can get assistance from your provider to fix it. This article will help you understand why it is not recommended to reuse your eSIM QR code, and what is the possible solution to navigate this. 

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What is the eSIM QR code?

eSIM QR code is the digital representation of the embedded SIM and a gateway to instant connectivity. It is a code you can scan from the camera to install and activate an eSIM profile on your device. It connects your device to the network and activates the data cellular plan. You can get the QR code from your eSIM provider. 

eSIM Card provider offers local, regional, and global eSIMs for 190+ countries. They provide complete eSIM installation and activation details to the customers. The activation details and QR code are provided to the customers through email. In case of any concern, eSIM Card offers 24/7 customer support services. 

How does a QR code work?

Among various methods for eSIM activation, the QR code is the most common and widely used.  The code contains your eSIM profile information and lets your device connect to the network. The QR code scanning links the eSIM profile to your device IMEI preventing the conflict of device identification.  

QR code installation is similar to inserting the physical SIM card into the device. With the help of scanning your eSIM profile is downloaded and installed into the device.

Can the QR code be reused?

The QR code sent to you is often one time used, and your eSIM can’t be transferred to the other device by scanning the same code. If you scan your QR code already, it will not allow anyone else to download the eSIM by scanning it again. The one-time use of a QR code is a security feature that ensures the security of your data. 

If someone gets your QR code before you scan it, your eSIM is downloaded on their devices. Then you would not download the eSIM profile on your device by rescanning the same code.

It is recommended to install your eSIM as soon as possible or keep your eSIM activation and installation details safe. 

Solution of switching the eSIM to a new device 

Once your eSIM is activated on your device it can’t be installed on the new device with the same QR code. With a physical SIM card, it's easy to switch from one device to another, while in the case of eSIM, it's not a straightforward process. The solution is to buy a new eSIM for your device. The latest devices of iOS and Android allow eSIM transfer between the devices, but make sure the other devices support eSIM. For further details, you can consult your eSIM provider.    

FAQs

Is eSIM QR code one-time use?

Yes, the eSIM QR code can be one time used. When you get your eSIM QR code scanned by you or someone else, it can’t be used for the second time to install eSIM on another device. 

Can I use 1 eSIM on 2 devices?

No, it's not possible to use one eSIM on two devices. eSIM with installation details can be installed once. You can share your eSIM data with other devices but not the eSIM card.

Can eSIM be used twice?

eSIM is installed on one device. When you install eSIM once on your device and later delete it, you can’t install it again. You need to buy the new eSIM for your next trip.