Last updated:

Tesco Mobile eSIM Setup Activation Guide

Tesco Mobile eSIM Setup Activation guide thumbnail

How to activate a Tesco Mobile eSIM (runs on O2 network) on iPhone and Android, scan the QR code, and troubleshoot eSIM issues.

Step 1 — Check Tesco Mobile eSIM Compatibility

Confirm your phone supports eSIM and your Tesco Mobile plan is eSIM-compatible.

  • eSIM compatibility starts with iPhone XS — verify at Settings › General › About, "Digital SIM".
  • Android: Settings › Connections › SIM Manager — look for "Add eSIM".
  • Check Tesco Mobile offers eSIM on your plan: Tesco Mobile help.

Step 2: Get Your Tesco Mobile eSIM QR Code

  1. Order an eSIM plan or request an eSIM swap via the Tesco Mobile website or app.
  2. The single-use QR code arrives by email — have it ready to hand.
  3. Check Wi-Fi is stable before scanning — the profile download happens online.
The QR code can only be used once. Contact Tesco Mobile for a replacement if needed.

Activate Tesco Mobile eSIM on iPhone

  1. Settings › Mobile Data › Add eSIM.
  2. Tap Use QR Code and scan the Tesco Mobile QR code.
  3. Follow prompts: Continue › Add Data Plan › Use as Mobile Data.
  4. The profile automatically downloads and connects once triggered.
  5. A quick test: Wi-Fi off, then load any web page.

Activate Tesco Mobile eSIM on Android

  1. Samsung: Settings › Connections › SIM Manager › Add eSIM.
  2. Stock Android: Settings › Network & Internet › SIMs › Add a SIM.
  3. Choose Scan QR code from carrier and scan the Tesco Mobile QR code.
  4. Set this as the default data SIM if the phone is dual-SIM.
  5. Restart and test mobile data.

APN Settings After Tesco Mobile eSIM Activation

APN settings are typically bundled with the eSIM profile. If mobile data isn't functioning:

APN: prepay.tesco-mobile.com

See the full Tesco Mobile APN Settings guide for all values.

Troubleshoot Tesco Mobile eSIM Issues

  1. Ensure Wi-Fi stays connected throughout activation if the QR won't scan.
  2. A 15-minute wait after toggling Aeroplane Mode often fixes no-service post-activation.
  3. Data not working — verify APN is prepay.tesco-mobile.com and Mobile Data is enabled for the eSIM.
  4. Check the device and plan both support eSIM if the option doesn't appear.
  5. Contact Tesco Mobile: Tesco Mobile help to resend QR code or re-provision.

FAQs — Tesco Mobile eSIM

Does Tesco Mobile support eSIM?
Check Tesco Mobile help for current eSIM availability and compatible plans.
How do I activate a Tesco Mobile eSIM?
Get a QR code from Tesco Mobile. iPhone: Settings › Mobile Data › Add eSIM › Use QR Code. Android: Settings › Connections › SIM Manager › Add eSIM. Scan the code and follow prompts.
Can I use Tesco Mobile eSIM and a physical SIM together?
Yes, if your phone supports Dual SIM Dual Standby (DSDS). Check your phone's specifications.
What APN does Tesco Mobile eSIM use?
Same as a physical SIM: prepay.tesco-mobile.com. Usually configured automatically in the eSIM profile.
Tesco Mobile eSIM not working?
Toggle Aeroplane Mode, verify APN is prepay.tesco-mobile.com, ensure Mobile Data is on for the eSIM. Contact Tesco Mobile help for re-provisioning.

← Back to Tesco Mobile APN Settings