How to Convert a Physical SIM to an eSIM (Airtel, Jio, Vi)

An eSIM (Embedded Subscriber Identity Module) is a digital SIM that allows you to activate a cellular plan from your carrier without having to use a physical nano-SIM. Upgrading to an eSIM is particularly useful for users with dual-SIM phones, frequent international travelers, and for securing your device against physical SIM theft.

Device Compatibility

Before initiating the conversion process, you must ensure your smartphone supports eSIM technology. Most modern flagship devices support it natively:

• Apple: iPhone XS, XS Max, XR, and all later models (iPhone 11 through iPhone 18 series).
• Samsung: Galaxy S20 series and newer, Galaxy Z Fold/Flip series, and recent Galaxy Note models.
• Google: Pixel 3 series and newer.
• Motorola & Vivo: Select flagship models like the Moto Razr and Vivo X series.

Step-by-Step eSIM Activation

1. Airtel eSIM Activation

Ensure you have a registered email ID updated with your Airtel number before starting.

1. Send an SMS: eSIM <registered email ID> to 121.
2. If your email is valid, you will receive an SMS from 121. Reply with 1 within 60 seconds to confirm the eSIM change request.
3. You will receive a call from Airtel asking for your consent. After providing consent, a QR code will be sent to your registered email.
4. Go to your phone's Settings > Cellular/Mobile Data > Add Data Plan/eSIM, and scan the QR code.

2. Reliance Jio eSIM Activation

Jio's process requires extracting your device's EID and IMEI numbers.

1. Find your 32-digit EID and 15-digit IMEI in your phone's Settings > About Phone.
2. Send SMS: GETESIM <32 Digit EID> <15 Digit IMEI> to 199.
3. You will receive a 19-digit virtual eSIM number. Now, send SMS: SIMCHG <19 digit eSIM number> to 199.
4. Wait for the confirmation SMS. After 2 hours, you will receive a notification to configure your eSIM profile. On iPhones, tap the notification to install. On Android, scan the QR code or use the activation code provided via SMS/Email.

3. Vodafone Idea (Vi) eSIM Activation

For Vi postpaid and select prepaid customers:

1. Send SMS: eSIM <registered email id> to 199.
2. Reply with ESIMY to the confirmation SMS within 15 minutes.
3. You will receive a tele-verification call. Upon consent, a QR code will be mailed to your inbox.
4. Scan the QR code through your device's cellular settings to download the eSIM profile.

Need Help?

If you encounter the "QR code invalid" error or fail to receive the configuration profile, visit Pratheek Enterprises. Our telecom experts can assist with generating fresh QR codes and verifying backend profile routing for Airtel, Jio, and Vi.