The Google Pixel 8 is eSIM compatible, and setting one up takes only a few minutes if you know where to look. This guide covers exactly how to check eSIM compatibility on your Pixel 8, how to install and activate an eSIM step by step, and what to do if you run into issues along the way. Whether you’re switching carriers, adding a travel data plan, or simply want a digital SIM instead of a physical card, SlickeSIM makes it easy to get a working eSIM profile onto your Pixel 8 in minutes.
Is the Google Pixel 8 eSIM Compatible?
Yes. The Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro both support eSIM technology, alongside a physical nano-SIM card slot, so the phone supports Dual SIM use. Both models support dual active eSIM, meaning you can run two eSIM profiles at the same time without needing a physical SIM card at all, or pair one eSIM with your physical SIM. You can store multiple eSIM profiles on the device, though only two lines can be active and in use simultaneously.
eSIM support on the Pixel 8 is a hardware feature, but actual availability still depends on your carrier and, in some cases, your region. Most major carriers in the US, the UK, and Europe, and many in Asia, support eSIM on the Pixel 8, and most MVNOs do too, but it’s worth confirming with your specific provider before you buy a plan.
How to Check if Your Google Pixel 8 Supports eSIM
Even though every standard Pixel 8 unit ships with eSIM hardware, it’s a good habit to confirm compatibility on your specific device before installing a new profile, especially if your phone came from a carrier, was purchased second-hand, or is a region-specific model. Use any of the three methods below.
Method 1: Check Through Settings
- Open the Settings app on your Pixel 8.
- Tap Network & internet.
- Tap SIMs (or Mobile network, depending on your Android version).
- Look for an option labeled Add eSIM, Download a new eSIM, or Set up an eSIM.
If you see this option, your device supports eSIM and is ready for a new profile.
Method 2: Dial the USSD Code
- Open the Phone app.
- Dial *#06#.
If a 32-digit EID (Embedded Identity Document) number appears alongside your IMEI, your Pixel 8 has active eSIM hardware. No EID means eSIM either isn’t supported on that specific unit or has been disabled by a carrier lock.
Method 3: Check the EID in About Phone
- Open Settings.
- Tap About phone.
- Look for an EID number listed under the device identifiers.
An EID number confirms eSIM hardware is present and functioning correctly on your device.
Before You Install an eSIM: Things to Check
- Your Pixel 8 is unlocked, or unlocked for the carrier you plan to use.
- You’re connected to a stable Wi-Fi network, since eSIM downloads require internet access.
- Your device is not a carrier-restricted or region-locked variant (some Mainland China units, for example, have eSIM restrictions).
- You have your eSIM QR code or activation details ready, usually sent by your carrier via email or app after purchase.
If you haven’t purchased a plan yet, SlickeSIM offers eSIM data plans that are compatible with the Pixel 8, with QR-code activation that works with the exact steps below.
How to Install eSIM on Google Pixel 8: Step-by-Step
Option A: During Initial Phone Setup
If you’re activating your Pixel 8 for the first time, you’ll be prompted to set up a SIM during the setup wizard. Choose the eSIM option when prompted, connect to Wi-Fi, and scan your carrier’s QR code when asked.
Option B: Adding an eSIM After Setup
- Make sure your Pixel 8 is connected to Wi-Fi.
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap Network & internet.
- Tap SIMs.
- Tap Add SIM, then tap Download a new eSIM (this may also appear as “Use a QR code”).
- Scan the QR code provided by your carrier, or enter the activation code manually if a QR code isn’t available.
- Tap Download in the lower-right corner to confirm.
The download usually takes about five minutes. Once complete, your Pixel 8 automatically connects to your carrier’s network, and you can rename the SIM label and choose your preferred line for calls, texts, and mobile data under SIM settings.
Transferring an eSIM from an Older Pixel Phone
If you’re upgrading from an eSIM-compatible Pixel phone, you can transfer your eSIM directly to the Pixel 8 during setup instead of deactivating and reactivating manually. This option appears automatically during the setup process for the new device when it detects an eligible eSIM on your old phone. Note that direct eSIM transfer currently only works when moving to a Pixel 8; you cannot transfer between other phone brands.
Removing or Erasing an eSIM
- Go to Settings > Network & internet > SIMs.
- Select the eSIM you want to remove.
- Tap Erase SIM.
This permanently deletes the eSIM profile from your device, so make sure you no longer need it before confirming.
Dual SIM on the Google Pixel 8
The Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro support Dual SIM, letting you keep a physical nano-SIM active alongside an eSIM. This is useful if you want to separate a personal and work line, or keep your home number active while using a local or travel eSIM for data abroad. Both models also support dual active eSIM, so two eSIM profiles can run at the same time without a physical SIM card in the tray at all. You can store more profiles than that on the device, but only two lines can be active for calls, texts, or data simultaneously.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Google Pixel 8 support eSIM?
Yes, both the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro support eSIM alongside a physical nano-SIM slot, and both support dual active eSIM.
How do I know if my Pixel 8 supports eSIM?
Dial *#06# and check for a 32-digit EID number, or go to Settings > Network & internet > SIMs and look for an Add eSIM option.
Can I use two eSIMs at once on the Pixel 8?
Yes. The Pixel 8 supports dual active eSIM, so two eSIM profiles can be active at the same time, with no physical SIM required.
Can I transfer my eSIM from an iPhone to a Pixel 8?
No, direct eSIM migration between iPhone and Android isn’t currently supported. You’ll need to deactivate the eSIM on the iPhone and set up a new eSIM on the Pixel 8 using your carrier’s activation process.
Why isn’t my eSIM QR code scanning?
Confirm you’re connected to Wi-Fi, that the QR code hasn’t already been used or expired, and that your Pixel 8 is unlocked for the carrier issuing the eSIM. If the issue continues, request a fresh QR code or manual activation code from your carrier.
How many eSIM profiles can the Pixel 8 store?
The Pixel 8 can store multiple eSIM profiles, but only two lines (in any combination of eSIM and physical SIM) can be active for use at one time.
Get Your Pixel 8 eSIM Ready in Minutes
Once you’ve confirmed your Pixel 8 supports eSIM, activation only takes a few minutes with the right plan. SlickeSIM provides eSIM data plans built for Pixel devices, with instant QR-code delivery so you can follow the installation steps above and be connected the same day.