istalling esim

Forum|Forum|3 months ago
May 16, 2026
2 replies
40 views

When installing esim on my new galaxy s26 in settings, I get the following message

Can’t add esim

The code isn’t valid or has already been used.

contact your service provider for more information.

Is there anything I can do to overcome this problem?

Decembersangel72

Gold Contributor

Hi @Barrym55

This is some information I have found with regards to your problem:-

If your Samsung Galaxy S26 is failing to add or transfer an eSIM, the issue is often tied to carrier restrictions, corrupted system caches, or an outdated OS.
Here are the most effective ways to fix the problem, from easiest to most thorough:

1. Manual Activation (Bypass the Transfer)

If you are trying to transfer an eSIM from an old device and the option is missing or greyed out, bypass the transfer process.

Log into your mobile carrier's app or log in to your account via a web browser.
Request a new QR code or a manual activation string for your eSIM.
On your S26, go to Settings > Connections > SIM manager. Tap Add eSIM, then select Scan QR code and use your camera, or choose Enter activation code manually
Enter activation code manually

2. Clear SIM Manager and Reset Network Settings

If a previous eSIM installation attempt glitched, it can prevent new ones from going through.

Clear cache: Go to Settings > Apps > SIM manager > Storage > Clear Cache.
Reset connections: Go to Settings > General Management > Reset > Reset Network Settings. (Note: This will erase saved Wi-Fi networks and Bluetooth pairings).
Restart your phone and try adding the eSIM again

3. Update Your Software
Samsung regularly rolls out patches for device compatibility and eSIM connectivity.

Go to Settings > Software update > Download and install to ensure you are on the latest One UI version

For step-by-step guidance on scanning your specific code, you can refer to the Samsung UK eSIM Guide for visual walk throughs:-
https://www.samsung.com/uk/support/mobile-devices/how-to-use-an-esim-with-your-galaxy-phone/

If you are still having trouble, your best bet is to contact the Live Chat via this link (The Live Chat team are available 9am - 8pm Monday to Friday, and 9am - 6pm Saturday and Sunday) to discuss this.

https://www.idmobile.co.uk/live-chat

When you contact the Live Chat :-

Type ‘talk to a person’ in the dialogue box and this will bypass the unhelpful chatbot.

Please be patient as the agents handle a few conversations at any one time so there will be a delay in connecting with an available agent and also any replies to your query.

Good luck x

Did my comment help answer your question? If so, don't forget to mark the response as the Most Helpful Answer.

Gemma M

iD Mobile Employee

Hi @Barrym55,

I am so sorry to hear of the issues relating to your eSIM. As this is a public platform, I’m unable to assist with account-specific queries here for security reasons. However, our team will be more than happy to help you via live chat. Please use the following link to get in touch: https://www.idmobile.co.uk/live-chat.

Once connected, simply explain your request and an advisor will assist you further.

Thank you for your understanding.

Regards,

Gemma M

The iD Mobile Social Media Team

Did my comment help answer your question? If so, don't forget to mark the response as the Most Helpful Answer.