This guide is for iPhones on an iOS version earlier than 26. If you're not sure which version you have, check **Settings → General → About → Software Version** — on iOS 26 and later, see [Install on iPhone](/hc/help/articles/en-install-esim-iphone).

> 📝 **Note:** Your eSIM will not be named "SimSIM" on your device — it appears under a local network's name at your destination, which is normal. The eSIM you just installed always appears at the bottom of the line list. [More details](/hc/help/articles/en-activating-your-esim).

On earlier versions of iOS, some settings appear as a wizard during installation itself. The steps are similar to newer versions, but the screen order differs.

**1. Open My eSIMs and tap install**

In the SimSIM app, go to **My eSIMs**, open your plan, and tap **Install eSIM**.

**2. Approve adding the eSIM**

Approve the request and tap **Continue** if prompted. Installation takes a few minutes — don't close the screen partway through.

**3. Default line — choose your primary line**

When asked which line should be the default, choose your **primary line** and tap Continue. This keeps calls and messages arriving on your usual number.

**4. FaceTime and iMessage — choose your primary line**

Choose your **primary line** here too and tap Continue, so iMessage and FaceTime keep working from the number people know.

**5. Cellular data — choose your primary line**

Choose your **primary line** here too and tap Continue.

**6. Confirm data roaming is enabled**

Tap the eSIM you enabled and confirm **Data Roaming** is on. Without it you'll have no internet at your destination, even if installation succeeded.

> 💡 **Tip:** The eSIM you just installed always appears at the bottom of the line list.

**7. After you land — switch your data line**

Once you arrive, tap **Cellular Data** and select the eSIM you set up.

## If something isn't working

The most common problem by far is **data roaming** being switched off on the new line. If you have no internet at your destination, check that first.

For more checks see [Troubleshooting](/hc/help/articles/en-troubleshooting), confirm your model is on the [compatible device list](https://simsimglobal.com/esim-compatible-devices), or see [installing on Android](/hc/help/articles/en-install-esim-android) if you're setting up a different device.