Deleted Your eSIM? Can You Reuse the QR Code to Reinstall It?

It’s a moment of digital dread: you’ve tapped around your phone settings and accidentally deleted your eSIM profile. Your connection drops, and panic sets in. You still have the original QR code you used for activation. Can you just scan it again to reinstall the eSIM?

The short answer is almost always no. While it’s an easy mistake to make, eSIM QR codes are designed for one-time use for security reasons. But don’t worry, getting back online is simple and straightforward. This guide explains why you can’t reuse that QR code and exactly what to do after deleting your eSIM profile.

Ready to get a new connection right away? Explore Yoho Mobile’s flexible eSIM plans and get connected in minutes.

Why Are eSIM QR Codes Typically Single-Use?

Think of your eSIM QR code not as the eSIM itself, but as a secure, single-use key. This key unlocks a unique digital profile stored on a carrier’s server (known as the SM-DP+) and allows it to be downloaded and installed on your device just once. Once that installation is complete, the key is voided.

This single-use mechanism is a critical security feature designed by organizations like the GSMA (Groupe Spéciale Mobile Association) to protect your cellular plan from unauthorized use. Here’s why it’s so important:

• Prevents Cloning: If QR codes were reusable, anyone with a picture of your code could potentially install your cellular plan on their own device, gaining access to your data, calls, and texts.
• Ensures Secure Provisioning: The one-time process guarantees that the specific eSIM profile is securely delivered to and installed on only one device, preventing accidental installations or fraud.
• Maintains Network Integrity: By controlling the distribution of profiles, mobile operators can maintain the security and stability of their network.

So, when you delete an eSIM profile, you’re removing the installed credentials from your phone. The original QR code has already served its purpose and cannot be used to fetch that same profile again.

What Happens When You Delete an eSIM Profile?

Deleting an eSIM profile from your phone removes the digital SIM and its network credentials from the device’s memory. It’s the equivalent of physically taking a SIM card out of your phone.

Crucially, this action does not automatically cancel your data plan with your provider. Your plan might still be active, but your phone simply has no way to access it anymore. You’ve removed the bridge, but the destination still exists. The next step is to build a new bridge by installing a new eSIM profile.

How to Get Back Online: Your Step-by-Step Guide

If you’ve deleted your Yoho Mobile eSIM, getting a new one is a breeze. You don’t need to panic or wait for a physical card to be mailed. Here’s what to do.

Step 1: Log in to Your Yoho Mobile Account

Your first step is to access your account dashboard. This is where you can manage your plans and request a replacement eSIM.

Step 2: Get a Replacement eSIM

Depending on your plan, you will either need to contact support for a replacement or simply purchase a new plan. With Yoho Mobile’s flexible and affordable options, getting a new plan is often the fastest way to get reconnected, especially if you’re traveling.

For example, if you’re traveling through Europe and accidentally deleted your eSIM in Paris, you can instantly purchase a new Europe eSIM plan and be back online before your next croissant.

Step 3: Install Your New Yoho Mobile eSIM

Once you have your new plan, you’ll receive a new QR code for activation. The installation process is quick and easy.

• For iOS Users: The process is incredibly simple. There’s often no need to scan a QR code! Just go to your account or confirmation email and tap the “Install” button. Your iPhone will automatically guide you through the setup, which usually takes less than a minute.
• For Android Users: You will typically scan the new QR code or use the manual activation details provided. The on-screen prompts will guide you through the rest.

Before you start, it’s always a good idea to ensure your device is on the official eSIM compatible devices list.

Pro-Tip: Avoid Deleting Your eSIM Profile Unnecessarily

To avoid this situation in the future, it’s good to know when—and when not—to delete an eSIM. If you’re simply troubleshooting a connection issue or want to switch to another line temporarily, you don’t need to delete your eSIM. Instead, you can go into your phone’s cellular settings and simply turn the eSIM line off. This deactivates it without permanently removing it, allowing you to turn it back on later.

And for total peace of mind, Yoho Mobile offers a unique safety net. With Yoho Care, you’re never truly disconnected. Even if you use up all your data or run into an issue with your primary plan, Yoho Care provides a backup data connection to keep you online while you sort things out.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What should I do right after deleting my eSIM profile?

Don’t panic. Check your Wi-Fi connection, log into your Yoho Mobile account, and follow the steps to obtain and install a new eSIM profile for your existing or a new plan.

Can I scan the same eSIM QR code twice for different phones?

No. An eSIM QR code is tied to a single, unique eSIM profile and is designed for a one-time installation on one device. You cannot use it to install the same plan on a second phone.

How can I get a new eSIM QR code from Yoho Mobile?

The easiest way is to purchase a new plan that fits your needs. Visit the Yoho Mobile purchase page, select your destination and data package, and you will receive a new activation QR code immediately after checkout.

Will I be charged for a new eSIM if I deleted the old one?

Deleting the eSIM profile from your phone doesn’t entitle you to a refund for the plan. You will need to purchase a new plan to receive a new eSIM profile and get reconnected. Luckily, Yoho Mobile offers a wide range of affordable and flexible plans to get you back online without breaking the bank.

Conclusion

While accidentally deleting your eSIM can be startling, it’s a completely fixable problem. The key takeaway is that for your security, eSIM QR codes are for one-time use only. You cannot reuse an old QR code to reinstall a deleted profile.

The solution is simple: get a new eSIM from your provider. With Yoho Mobile, this process is designed to be as fast and painless as possible, ensuring you can reconnect in minutes, not hours. Whether you’re at home or traveling across the globe, a secure and stable connection is just a few taps away.

Ready to experience seamless global connectivity? Browse Yoho Mobile’s eSIM plans today and travel with confidence!