eSIM terms explained: EID, SM-DP+ address, activation code, APN, data roaming
The words you meet buying and installing a travel eSIM, each in a sentence: what it is and when it matters.
eSIM
A SIM you never insert: the carrier profile is downloaded into a chip the phone already has.
EID
The eSIM chip’s own number. If dialling *#06# shows an EID line, the phone supports eSIM.
Install code / QR code
What you scan to install an eSIM. It works once, on one phone.
SM-DP+ address
The server the eSIM downloads from. With the activation code it is what you type in when installing by hand instead of scanning.
Activation code
The code that, with the SM-DP+ address, identifies your eSIM for a manual install.
Data roaming
The phone’s switch that lets a SIM use data on a network not its own. On for the travel eSIM, off for the home SIM.
International roaming
Your carrier’s service that lets your home number work abroad, for calls, texts and data.
APN
The access point the phone uses to reach the mobile internet. Usually set by itself; if a plan shows APN details, enter them only when it does not connect.
Dual SIM
Two lines in one phone, for example a home SIM and a travel eSIM, each with its own switches.
Unlocked phone
A phone not tied to one carrier. A locked phone cannot use another carrier’s eSIM.
Questions
What is an EID?
The eSIM chip’s own number. Dial *#06#: if an EID line shows, the phone supports eSIM.
What is an SM-DP+ address?
The server an eSIM downloads from. You type it, with the activation code, when installing by hand instead of scanning.
Do I need to set an APN?
Usually not: it is set by itself. If a plan shows APN details and it does not connect, enter them by hand.