How to Use eSIM on iPad

iPad eSIM setup is similar to iPhone but has a few differences. This guide covers setup for iPad Pro, iPad Air, and iPad mini with cellular.

Which iPads support eSIM?

1
iPad Pro 11-inch (1st gen, 2018) and later — all generations.
2
iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd gen, 2018) and later — all generations.
3
iPad Air (3rd gen, 2019) and later.
4
iPad mini (5th gen, 2019) and later.
5
iPad (7th gen, 2019) and later — cellular models only.
6
Important: Wi-Fi only iPad models have no eSIM capability.

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Check Settings on your iPad. If you see Settings → Cellular Data, your iPad has cellular. If not, it is Wi-Fi only.

How to install an eSIM on iPad

1
Open Settings → Cellular Data → Add Data Plan.
2
Tap "Use QR Code" and scan the QR from your LTE.app order.
3
Follow the on-screen prompts to complete installation.
4
After installation: Settings → Cellular Data → toggle on → confirm the plan is selected.
5
Settings → Cellular Data → Cellular Data Options → Data Roaming: On.

Using iPad as a hotspot

An iPad with cellular can share its connection via Personal Hotspot to your MacBook or other devices. Settings → Personal Hotspot → Allow Others to Join: On. This is useful for nomads using iPad as their primary connected device.

Alternatively: use iPhone hotspot instead

If you have an iPhone with an active LTE.app eSIM, your iPad (even Wi-Fi only) can connect to the iPhone's hotspot. One eSIM plan on your iPhone covers both devices. This avoids buying a separate iPad plan for most use cases.

Having trouble? Smart Coach diagnoses automatically.

Open LTE.app and tap Smart Coach. It checks your APN settings, roaming state, and carrier connection automatically — even without mobile data.

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Frequently asked questions

Do I need a separate eSIM plan for my iPad?

Not necessarily. Your iPhone's personal hotspot can share data to your iPad. One plan covers both. A separate iPad eSIM plan only makes sense if you frequently use the iPad independently without your iPhone nearby.

Which LTE.app plan should I buy for iPad?

The same plans available for iPhone work on iPad. Choose your destination country and data size as normal. Scan the QR in iPad's Settings → Cellular Data → Add Data Plan.

Troubleshooting guides

🔧 eSIM Personal Hotspot Not Working?🔧 iPad eSIM Not Working?

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