How to activate your Airtel eSIM Card for Smartphone

What is an eSIM, Why is it Safer to Use

Since eSIMs are embedded within the device, they can't be removed, lost, or stolen like physical SIM cards. This significantly reduces the risk of unauthorised access or tampering.

An eSIM is a virtual SIM securely integrated within a smartphone, smartwatch, or any compatible device Thus eliminating the need for a physical card.

Users can switch between network carriers and plans without the hassle of physically swapping SIM cards.

Traditionally, a SIM card, or Subscriber Identity Module, has been a physical, removable chip inserted into a mobile device, serving as the authentication key that enables cellular connectivity. However, the eSIM embeds this functionality directly into the device's hardware. Picture it as a virtual SIM securely integrated within a smartphone, smartwatch, or any compatible device, eliminating the need for a physical card.

How to activate your Airtel eSIM Card for Smartphone

Here are the complete steps on how you can activate your Airtel eSIM:

Step 1: Initiate your eSIM card request via the Airtel Thanks app

  • Download the Airtel Thanks app and login via the phone number which you wish to upgrade to an eSIM
  • Go to the ‘Home’ page and scroll down to ‘shortcuts’
  • Click on the ‘upgrade to eSIM’ icon and initiate the eSIM request
  • Choose your device – select ‘this device’ or ‘another device’ based on your preferences
  • Enter your 32-digit EID number for the same device (refer FAQ for more)



Step 2: Verify the OTP on your registered phone number

  • Type in the OTP that you receive on your registered Airtel number
  • Your Airtel eSIM request is now submitted and is ready to be configured.



Step 3: Configure your eSIM settings according to your device

  • You will now have to download the eSIM according to the steps of your smartphone