eSIM technology makes connecting to mobile networks easy and replaces SIM cards. It’s great for travelers switching carriers. But if your iPhone shows “eSIM stuck on activating,” don’t worry! This quick guide will help you fix it and get your eSIM working fast.

What Causes An eSIM to Get Stuck During Activation?

Among the most common complaints that users experience when switching to an eSIM from an iPhone is getting stuck at the activation screen. Many reasons may delay it or cause it to fail. So, we must know the causes before fixing them.

Heavy network use is a common cause of eSIM activation issues. During peak hours, carriers’ systems can become overloaded, which may slow down the activation process. Sometimes, the problem is on the carrier’s side, such as not having your eSIM service properly set up. Additionally, incomplete network settings on your phone can cause the activation to freeze. Outdated software can cause problems with working together. They may prevent your iPhone from connecting with the carrier’s systems.

Basic Troubleshooting To Fix an eSIM Stuck On Activating

If your eSIM is stuck on “activating,” you can try a few simple resets:

Toggle Airplane Mode on/off:

• Open the Control Center:
  • On newer iPhones, swipe down from the top-right corner.
  • On older models, swipe up from the bottom.
• Tap the Airplane Mode icon to turn it on.
• Wait 10-15 seconds, then tap again to turn it off.

Force restart your iPhone:

• Hold the power button and volume up/down together.
• Slide to Power Off.
• Turn your iPhone back on after a few seconds.

Device Compatibility and Software Updates

Whether your iPhone supports eSIM technology itself determines if you will be able to activate it. All models since the iPhone XR support eSIM. But, a compatible device must have up-to-date software.

To ensure your iPhone is eSIM ready:

• iOS Version Check: Go to Settings > General > Software Update. Your device needs to run on the latest iOS version as it is presently available. Newer updates are well known to add fixes as well as improvements that may resolve this eSIM activation problem.
• Carrier Settings Update: Several find this happens because the carrier needs an update to support eSIM correctly. To do so, open Settings, then tap General, then About. Carried out if there’s a carrier settings update from your carrier.

When to Attempt eSIM Activation for the Best Results

This is probably one of the most forgotten factors when trying to fix an eSIM for activation, having to do with timing. Do the activation at some other time than peak hours, in which case it could make all the difference. At peak hours, high heavy use slows speeds. This may delay or stop the activation process.

Off-peak hours are usually during early morning or late evening when not too many people are on the carrier’s network. Activating these times might increase your chances of a quick, smooth activation. It would avoid problems from heavy network traffic.

What to Do if eSIM Activation Continues to Fail

If trying all of the above, your eSIM remains repeatedly stuck on ‘activating’, it’s time to contact customer support for your carrier. Each has its own ways to fix the eSIM activation issue. They may need to reset your activation process by hand.

Before calling them, have the following information available:

• Your iPhone model and iOS version.
• The QR code or activation details from your carrier.
• Any error messages or screens you are seeing during activation.

Some carriers may offer faster support through their apps or websites than by calling customer service.

The Benefits of eSIMs Despite Activation Challenges

Despite the likely troubles in the setup or activation of eSIMs, this technology does have some advantages over regular SIM cards.

First and foremost, eSIM is changeable. If you move around frequently, eSIMs definitely make switching carriers easier than having to change a SIM card completely. You can add any local carrier plan wherever you go with ease, avoiding the high cost of travel costs.

Another advantage of eSIMs is security. For instance, because you can’t lose or steal a physical card, thieves find it harder to change the network access on your device. Besides, eSIMs allow for more simple designs since manufacturers can get rid of the SIM card tray and make devices more resistant to water.

If you are planning to travel soon, the benefits of using this technology are even more practical.

FAQs

How long does eSIM take to activate?

It should take a few minutes to activate your eSIM, but sometimes it depends on the system of carriers and network traffic. It can take around up to 24 hours.

How to delete eSIM stuck on activating?

To remove an eSIM stuck on your device, go to Settings > Cellular > eSIM, and tap Remove Cellular Plan. Once you have removed it, you must try adding the eSIM again by scanning the QR code.

Why does iMessage say waiting for activation?

This could also be an issue with the mobile plan or even a network connection. You may now restart your device, check your network settings, and make sure your iPhone has an active mobile plan.

Conclusions

eSIM activation on an iPhone might get stuck due to network issues, old software, or carrier problems. You can fix most problems with the simple tips we’ve shared here. The eSIM technology may seem like a headache. But, its benefits make it worth it. It offers more freedom, better security, and easier carrier switchovers. Frequent travelers and those seeking a smooth mobile experience will prefer it over classic SIM cards without a doubt. So it’s up to you to start using them as a matter of course.