Bought a travel eSIM for your Google Pixel 8, but it won't connect? You're not alone. In most cases the problem isn't the eSIM itself but a setting on the phone. Here are the fixes, in order of likelihood. Menu names below follow stock Android on the Pixel 8.
9 fixes for Pixel 8 eSIM problems
- Enable the eSIM line. Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs — make sure the downloaded eSIM profile is switched ON.
- Turn on Roaming. Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > your eSIM > Roaming — toggle ON. Travel eSIMs connect as roaming lines, so this is required abroad.
- Make the eSIM your data SIM. In SIMs, confirm mobile data is assigned to the travel eSIM, not your home SIM.
- Set or confirm the APN. Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > Access Point Names — if empty, enter the APN from your provider's instructions, save, and restart.
- Manually select a network. SIMs > your eSIM > Network — turn OFF "Choose automatically" and pick the carrier your provider recommends.
- Reset network settings. Settings > System > Reset options > Reset Mobile Network Settings (older Android: Reset Wi-Fi, mobile & Bluetooth), then re-enable the eSIM. Do not delete the eSIM profile — most QR codes are one-time use.
- Update Android and carrier settings. Settings > System > System update — eSIM and carrier fixes ship with system updates.
- Check dual SIM priority. Using a physical SIM and an eSIM together? Confirm mobile data is set to the eSIM line.
- Disable VPN / Private DNS, and try 4G. VPNs and Private DNS can block activation — disable them temporarily. If 5G won't connect abroad, switch Preferred network type to 4G/LTE.
Does the Pixel 8 support eSIM?
Yes — the Pixel 8 fully supports eSIM, including dual SIM (physical + eSIM, or dual eSIM). Carrier-branded models may need unlocking first. Not sure about your phone? See our eSIM compatibility checker guide →
Troubleshooting by region
- US (T-Mobile, AT&T): supported; activation may require Wi-Fi.
- Europe (Orange, Vodafone, O2): APN auto-config works in most cases.
- Asia (Japan, Korea): manual APN is often required for prepaid eSIMs.
FAQ
Can the Pixel 8 use dual eSIM?
Yes. The Pixel 8 stores multiple eSIM profiles and supports dual active SIM (physical + eSIM or two eSIMs).
Why does my Pixel 8 say "No Service" after adding an eSIM?
Check that Roaming is on, the APN is set, and mobile data is assigned to the eSIM line.
Do I need Wi-Fi to activate an eSIM on the Pixel 8?
Yes. A Movia eSIM cannot be activated without an internet connection — use Wi-Fi or another working line to download the profile.
Is my Pixel 8 unlocked for eSIM?
Phones bought from the Google Store are unlocked. Carrier-branded models may need unlocking before third-party eSIMs work.