eSIM Installation Failed?
"Could not add cellular plan" or "Installation failed" errors appear when your device cannot complete the eSIM provisioning process. Here are the most effective fixes.
⚡
LTE.app Smart Coach — automatic diagnosis
Smart Coach checks your APN settings, roaming state, and carrier connection automatically — no data needed. Open the app and tap Smart Coach to fix most issues in under 60 seconds.
Step-by-step fixes
1
Check your device is eSIM compatible
Not all phones support eSIM. iPhones XS and later (most models), Samsung Galaxy S20 and later, Google Pixel 3 and later. If your device is not on the compatible list, eSIM installation will always fail.
2
Ensure your device is not locked to a carrier
Carrier-locked devices (common with phones bought on contract) may reject international eSIMs. Contact your home carrier to check lock status and request an unlock if needed.
3
Connect to a different Wi-Fi network
Some Wi-Fi networks (corporate, hotel, public) block the GSMA eSIM provisioning ports. Try on your home broadband, a friend's Wi-Fi, or a mobile hotspot.
4
Free up eSIM slots
Most devices support 2–5 eSIM profiles stored simultaneously. Some older models (iPhone XS, XR) support only one active eSIM at a time. Delete an unused eSIM profile before installing a new one.
5
Update your device OS
eSIM installation failures are often fixed in OS updates. Check for pending iOS or Android updates and install them before retrying.
6
Use Smart Coach for automatic diagnosis
Open LTE.app and tap Smart Coach. It checks your APN settings, roaming state, and carrier connection automatically — even without mobile data — and walks you through the exact fix for your device and carrier.
Download LTE.app to use Smart Coach →Frequently asked questions
My phone says "Your carrier does not allow this." What does it mean?
This error means your device is carrier-locked. Contact your home carrier and ask them to unlock your device for international use. This is free in most countries if you have completed your contract.
How many eSIMs can I have installed at once?
Most recent iPhones (iPhone 13 and later) and Android devices can store up to 5–20 eSIM profiles but only activate 1–2 simultaneously. If you hit the storage limit, remove an old unused profile.
Does eSIM installation delete my existing SIM?
No. Installing an eSIM does not remove or affect your physical SIM. You can use both simultaneously for dual SIM — keeping your home number on the physical SIM while using the eSIM for data abroad.
Related troubleshooting guides
New to eSIM? Start here
Still stuck? Smart Coach can fix it automatically.
Works offline · Checks APN, roaming, carrier state · No support ticket needed