eSIM installation and usage guide: advantages/disadvantages, how to apply/purchase, activation process
It has card slot space and a simple purchase process. Unlike regular SIM cards, eSIMs don't require removal or installation; activation is simply a QR code scan. This article also introduces the advantages and disadvantages of eSIMs and provides an iPhone activation tutorial (using Lucky SIM as an example).
Official authorized distributor BBK.com offers priority sales of various eSIMs, including the LuckySIM with Hong Kong number (Hong Kong/roaming data) and the Lucky2 data-only SIM/travel SIM. Please refer to the order form for pricing: https://bit.ly/4cTV8VH
Apply for the Lucky SIM porting plan, which includes a "$138 3-year number retention" plan with unlimited SMS worldwide: https://bit.ly/3m5ykKc (Physical SIM card/eSIM optional) (Porting article details )
eSIM card and regular SIM card
Compared to traditional physical SIM cards, eSIMs do not require a physical card to activate mobile network plans. Users simply scan a QR code to complete network setup and activate the service. This technology has been popular overseas for many years, especially in the latest mobile phones, tablets, and smartwatches. However, eSIM adoption is relatively low in Hong Kong. A physical SIM card plus data eSIM is relatively expensive, and most Hong Kong versions of mobile phones released in recent years only support physical SIM cards.
Compared to other higher-priced eSIM plans in Hong Kong, Lucky SIM will launch its eSIM service at a more affordable price, replacing physical SIM cards with eSIMs. It is currently understood that the "LuckySIM" local stored-value card will be launched first, followed by the "Lucky2" travel card. Consumers can enjoy the convenience and flexibility of eSIM at a relatively affordable price, breaking through the price barrier of traditional mobile plans. Details regarding pricing have been officially released by Lucky SIM.
Official authorized distributor BBK.com offers priority sales of various eSIMs, including the LuckySIM with Hong Kong number (Hong Kong/roaming data) and the Lucky2 data-only SIM/travel SIM. Please refer to the order form for pricing: https://bit.ly/4cTV8VH
Advantages of eSIM cards
- No physical card is needed, so there's no need to worry about losing or damaging it.
- No card slot is needed, allowing for a thinner and lighter phone design.
- When you travel to countries that support eSIM, you can use it directly without having to buy a local SIM card or activate roaming.
- One device supports multiple numbers, allowing you to switch between them at any time to receive important calls or text messages.
- It can be shared between devices such as mobile phones, tablets, and smartwatches.
disadvantages of eSIM cards
- An activation fee may be required for first-time applicants.
- Not all devices support eSIM, especially Hong Kong versions of mobile phones.
- When you replace or reset your phone, you will need to reset it. If this fails, you will need to contact your mobile carrier and pay for a reissue of the eSIM.
eSIM supported phone list
Currently, eSIM only supports phones with unlocked country/communication restrictions. Therefore, even if a phone model is claimed to support eSIM when purchased overseas, phones purchased through official authorized channels in mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau (commonly known as "official versions") may not be able to use eSIM. It is essential to confirm before purchasing. The following are the current eSIM-supporting phone models in Hong Kong: (As of February 2025, for reference only)
• iPhone:
iPhone XS, iPhone SE (2nd generation or later), iPhone 12 mini (HK version), iPhone 13 mini (HK version), iPhone 16e
iPad:
iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation or later), iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation or later), iPad Air (3rd generation or later), iPad (7th generation or later), iPad mini (5th generation or later)
• Android phones/devices:
Samsung Z Flip, Samsung Galaxy Tab S9|Tab S9+|Tab S9 Ultra, Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+|Tab S9 FE, Huawei P40, Huawei P40 Pro, Huawei Mate 40 Pro 5G, MOTOROLA RAZR 5G, MOTOROLA Edge 40, HONOR Magic 4 Pro, HONOR Magic 5 Pro, HONOR Vs 5G HONOR 90 5G, HONOR Magic V2, HONOR Magic V2 RSR (PORSCHE DESIGN), HONOR Magic 6 Pro, VIVO Flip, OPPO Find N3, OPPO Find N2 Flip 5G, OnePlus 11 5G, OnePlus 12 5G
The list of common mobile devices that support eSIM is not exhaustive. If you have any questions, please contact the relevant device brand.
How to activate eSIM on iPhone
Whether you apply for or subscribe to an eSIM from a telecom operator, you will receive a unique QR code to activate the eSIM. iPhone users can follow the steps below to complete the eSIM setup. The following example uses the Lucky SIM new card eSIM.
LuckySIM Hong Kong/Roaming Data, Lucky2 Internet Data Card/Travel Card, and the new eSIM card are now available for priority purchase! For details on offers and purchase, please visit: https://forms.gle/Z5w662PUGKCa5uvKA
【Step 1】Set up "Mobile" on your iPhone
【Step 2】Select "Add eSIM"
【Step 3】Select "Use QR code"
【Step 4】A scanning box will appear at this point. Align the box with the QR code and start scanning.
【Step 5】After the scan is successful, select "Manually enter detailed information"
【Step 6】After entering the confirmation code, you will be redirected to the next page. Click "Join Mobile Network" to activate eSIM.
eSIM Precautions
Users can edit the "Mobile Network Plan Label," "Default Number," and update their preferred contact number after enabling the feature to complete the dual SIM dual standby setup for their iPhone.
Additionally, the editor would like to remind everyone to pay attention to the following points when setting up an eSIM:
- Before setting up, you need to check if your device model supports eSIM cards. If it does not support eSIM, you cannot set it up.
- Each eSIM QR code can only be scanned once; an error notification will be generated if it is scanned repeatedly.
- If you encounter a scanning failure, first check if your phone has an installed eSIM. Delete the eSIM and then try scanning again.
- The confirmation code is usually set to 0000, but if the eSIM card was purchased from Klook, the activation code provided in the email will be used.
- If you purchased an international eSIM card from Klook, you will need to enter the SM-DP + address information in addition to the activation code to activate it.
eSIM FAQs
Q: How can I check if my phone supports eSIM?
A: The following are the methods for checking iPhone, Samsung, and Google phones:
- iPhone : First, go to "Settings > General > About > Carrier Lock" to check for SIM card restrictions. If there are no restrictions, then go to "Settings > Mobile > Add eSIM" and start setting up eSIM by scanning the QR code.
- Samsung : Go to "Settings > Connectivity > SIM Management" and check if there is an "Add eSIM" option. If this option is present, it means eSIM is supported.
- Google : Go to "Settings > Internet & network", tap the "SIM card" option. If you see "Should I switch to download SIM?" and the option prompts you to authorize the camera to scan a QR code after tapping it, then the device supports eSIM.
Q: Is there a difference between eSIM signals and regular SIM cards?
A: The signal performance of an eSIM is actually no different from that of a regular SIM card. It mainly depends on the signal source in your area, just like judging whether a regular SIM card signal is stable.
Q: What eSIM recommendations are there for short-term travel?
A: If you don't want to go all the way to Mong Kok or Ap Lei Chau to buy a physical SIM card, we recommend purchasing Klook's eSIM plan . The plan allows you to choose the number of days, data allowance, and number of eSIMs. Shortly after order confirmation, you'll receive an email from the service provider. Scan the QR code to begin eSIM setup—easily activate your eSIM from home. For details on offers and purchase, please visit: https://bit.ly/4d5VBEn
Official authorized distributor BBK.com offers priority sales of various eSIMs, including the LuckySIM with Hong Kong number (Hong Kong/roaming data) and the Lucky2 data-only SIM/travel SIM. Please refer to the order form for pricing: https://bit.ly/4cTV8VH
For any inquiries about new products/channel changes, please contact us via WhatsApp: https://bit.ly/4fZPmoa
Other articles: Lucky SIM - Number Portability and Number Retention
Many people still keep their Hong Kong phone numbers, and the "$138 3-year" plan is the top choice for number portability! Besides free SMS in Hong Kong and overseas, it also includes 15GB of Hong Kong data, all at the same price. The other 13 portability plans offer even greater increases in Hong Kong data!
All data transfer plans and roaming data for 17 countries can be upgraded/renewed later. Whether you are in Hong Kong or overseas, you can purchase more data as needed and never have to worry about running out of data.
Lucky SIM SIM cards are compatible with various phone models, including physical cards and eSIM-enabled phones. Whether you are in Hong Kong or overseas, you can apply for a transfer using the official authorization form below, and an officially authorized agent will contact you.
Google Form application form: https://forms.gle/tY7vCdDgRFTYZd616 (Physical SIM card or eSIM optional)
Article details: https://stepstepinfo.com/?p=2694
Official authorized distributor BBK.com is offering priority sales of all LuckySIM and Lucky2 eSIM models. Please refer to the order form for pricing: https://bit.ly/4cTV8VH
Lucky2 13 countries/regions 365 days 10GB Unlimited Data Card
This annual data plan offers 365 days of roaming data service, with the first 10GB being high-speed data. After that, you can continue to use unlimited data at a reduced speed of 512kbps for browsing news, watching videos (low definition), or contacting friends and family via WhatsApp. A best-selling option, this is a rare affordable annual data plan on the market! Real-name registration is not required in Taiwan.
Network Provider:
China Unicom
Macau CTM
Taiwan Mobile
Japan SoftBank/KDDI
South Korean KT/SKT
Singapore Telecom
Maxis Malaysia
Telkmosel Indonesia
Vietnam Mobifone
Thailand AIS
Globe Philippines
Optus Australia
New Zealand TNZ
Lucky2 Travel SIM Card: 365 Days, 46 Countries/Regions, 10GB + 5GB Hong Kong
This annual data plan offers 365 days of roaming data service, with the first 10GB being high-speed data. After that, you can continue with unlimited data at a reduced speed of 384kbps for browsing news, watching videos (low definition), or contacting friends and family via WhatsApp. It also includes 5GB of Hong Kong data – a rare find for such an affordable annual plan! Real-name registration is required only in Hong Kong and Taiwan; no registration is required for other regions.
46 countries/regions include:
China, Taiwan, Macau, Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Kazakhstan, Israel, Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Greece, Italy, Montenegro, Serbia, Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Ireland, Netherlands, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Denmark, Estonia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden, Nigeria, South Africa, Canada, United States, Australia, New Zealand
Lucky2 365-day 30GB Unlimited Data Card for China, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and Macau
The best-selling model, a rare find in the market for affordable Japanese annual data plans! First 30GB of high-speed 5G/4G, then unlimited internet at 512K speed, plus an additional 5GB of Hong Kong data.
In Hong Kong and Taiwan, real-name registration is required, but only one registration is needed for use in these two places. Real-name registration is not required in China, Macau, Japan, or South Korea.
Network Provider:
China Unicom
Taiwan CHT/ Taiwan mobile
Macau CTM
JapanSoftbank/KDDI
South Korean KT/SKT
Official authorized distributor BBK.com is offering priority sales of all LuckySIM and Lucky2 eSIM models. Please refer to the order form for pricing: https://bit.ly/4cTV8VH