Model compatibility
Google Pixel 8 series eSIM compatibility
Google Pixel 8 series is an eSIM-capable device family according to the manufacturer’s official list. Add your travel eSIM with a QR code in minutes and get online abroad at local rates without removing your physical SIM.
eSIM status
eSIM supported
This device family is on the manufacturer’s official eSIM list. Before buying, check the regional note and the carrier lock.
At a glance
- eSIM status
- Support verified
- Covered models
- Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 8a
- Release year
- 2023
- Operating system
- Google Pixel (Android)
- EID check
- *#06# or Settings › About phone › EID
- Setup guide
- Google Pixel (Android) eSIM setup
Regional notes
- A carrier-locked phone cannot activate another provider’s eSIM; confirm the lock status with the carrier you bought it from.
- The model variant sold in each country can affect eSIM support.
Google Pixel 8 series and eSIM: what you need to know
An eSIM is a reprogrammable SIM chip built into the phone. Google Pixel 8 series covers Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 8a, and on these devices you don’t need a plastic card or a store visit to add a travel eSIM: just scan the QR code you receive by email after purchase.
Your main line stays on the phone as a physical SIM or eSIM. You select the travel eSIM for mobile data only, so calls and SMS verification codes keep reaching your main number while data runs on a local network at the destination with no roaming charges.
For the smoothest experience with Google Pixel 8 series, install the eSIM on Wi‑Fi before you leave and turn on data roaming for the travel line only once you arrive. Most plans start counting on the first connection.
2-minute check before you buy
- Dial *#06# in the phone app; an EID number should appear.
- Confirm that “Add eSIM” exists under Settings › Network & internet › SIMs › Add SIM › “Download a SIM instead”.
- Make sure the phone is not carrier-locked.
- Have a reliable Wi‑Fi connection ready for installation.
Setup guide
Step-by-step eSIM setup on Google Pixel 8 series
Menu names can differ slightly between Google Pixel (Android) versions. See the Google Pixel (Android) guide for full details.
- 1
Open the add-eSIM menu
Go to Settings › Network & internet › SIMs › Add SIM › “Download a SIM instead”.
- 2
Scan the QR code
Point the camera at the QR code in your email. If it won’t scan, tap “Need help?” › “Enter it manually” and type the activation code.
- 3
Name the line
Give the new line a name such as “Travel”; your main line stays as it is.
- 4
Choose the data line
Under Settings › Network & internet › SIMs, turn on “Mobile data” for the travel line.
- 5
Turn on roaming on arrival
When you arrive, turn on Settings › Network & internet › SIMs › [travel line] › Roaming for the travel line only. Keep roaming off on your main line.
- 6
Check the connection
The status bar should show a local network name and the 4G/5G icon. Restart the phone once if needed.
Similar models
Comparable phones from the same period and other generations of the same family:
Google Pixel 8 series eSIM: frequently asked questions
Does Google Pixel 8 series support eSIM?
Yes. Google Pixel 8 series is on the manufacturer’s official eSIM list. A carrier-locked phone cannot activate another provider’s eSIM; confirm the lock status with the carrier you bought it from. The model variant sold in each country can affect eSIM support.
How do I install a travel eSIM on Google Pixel 8 series?
Connect to Wi‑Fi, open Settings › Network & internet › SIMs › Add SIM › “Download a SIM instead” and scan the QR code from your email. Name the line “Travel”, select it for mobile data and turn on Settings › Network & internet › SIMs › [travel line] › Roaming when you arrive.
Will my main number and WhatsApp keep working?
Yes. Your main line stays on the phone; calls and SMS still reach your main number. WhatsApp is tied to the app rather than the data line, so it works over travel data without issues.
What if the QR code won’t scan?
Open the QR code on another screen, or tap “Need help?” › “Enter it manually” and type the activation code. Make sure your Wi‑Fi connection stays stable during installation.
When should I install my travel eSIM?
Install it on home Wi‑Fi the day before you travel. On most plans the validity starts with the first connection at the destination, so the installation date does not use up your days.
Get connected before your journey begins
Choose the right eSIM plan in minutes, install it with a QR code and stay connected in more than 200 countries.
Instant delivery • Secure payment • 24/7 support