Google was an early adopter of eSIM in the Android world, building eSIM hardware into Pixel phones starting with the Pixel 2 in 2017. However, those first two generations were restricted to Google Fi only. True open eSIM support arrived with the Pixel 3a in 2019, and every Pixel phone since then works with third-party eSIM providers. With the Pixel 7 series, Google added dual active eSIM, so you can run two eSIM profiles simultaneously. This guide lists every eSIM-compatible Google Pixel phone and Pixel Watch so you can verify your device before purchasing a travel eSIM.
Which Google devices support eSIM?
| Model | eSIM | eSIM Only |
|---|---|---|
| No | No | |
| No | No |
What you need to know before buying
Pixel 2 and Pixel 3 eSIM Only Works with Google Fi
The Pixel 2, Pixel 2 XL, Pixel 3, and Pixel 3 XL all contain eSIM hardware, but Google locked the eSIM functionality to Google Fi exclusively. You cannot install a third-party travel eSIM, Airalo, or any other eSIM provider on these four models. The eSIM chip simply will not accept profiles from non-Fi carriers. If you own a Pixel 2 or 3, your only eSIM option is subscribing to Google Fi. For travel eSIM compatibility, you need a Pixel 3a or newer. The Pixel 3a was the first generation where Google opened eSIM to all carriers and third-party providers.
Pixel 7 and Later Support Dual Active eSIM
Starting with the Pixel 7 series (released October 2022), Google added the ability to run two eSIM profiles simultaneously. This means you can keep your home carrier on one eSIM line and activate a travel eSIM on the second line, all without using the physical SIM tray. Pixel 6 and earlier models only support one active eSIM at a time. If you have a Pixel 6 or older, you can still use a travel eSIM, but you will need to use the nano-SIM tray for your home carrier while the travel eSIM occupies the eSIM slot. The Pixel 7 and later can store up to 8 eSIM profiles and switch between them without re-scanning QR codes.
Carrier-Locked Pixels May Block Third-Party eSIM
If you bought your Pixel through a carrier like Verizon, T-Mobile, or AT&T on a payment plan, the device may be carrier-locked. A locked Pixel will reject eSIM profiles from other providers. Before purchasing a travel eSIM, check your lock status in Settings > Network & internet > SIMs. If the device is locked, contact your carrier to request an unlock. Most US carriers unlock devices after you have paid off the balance and maintained active service for 60 days. Google Store purchases are always sold unlocked and will accept any eSIM provider immediately.
Pixel Watch eSIM Does Not Support Third-Party Travel eSIMs
The Pixel Watch (all generations) uses eSIM to mirror your phone's cellular plan through your carrier's Number Sharing or NumberSync feature. You cannot install a standalone travel eSIM from Airalo, Holafly, or other travel eSIM providers directly on a Pixel Watch. The watch requires a paired Pixel phone and a carrier that supports wearable device pairing. If you travel internationally and want cellular on your Pixel Watch, you will need an international roaming plan from your home carrier. For travel data, install the eSIM on your Pixel phone instead and use the watch via Bluetooth tethering.
Some Regional Pixel Variants Lack eSIM
Google sells Pixel phones in a limited number of markets, and certain regional variants may have eSIM disabled at the firmware level. For example, Pixels sold through specific carriers in Japan have historically required carrier-specific activation for eSIM. Additionally, if you import a Pixel from a market where it was not officially sold, the eSIM functionality may not work with local carriers. Always verify that your Pixel model number matches the variant sold in your region. You can check eSIM availability on your device by going to Settings > Network & internet > SIMs > Add eSIM. If the option does not appear, your device variant may not support it.
Frequently asked questions
How do I check if my Pixel supports eSIM?
Open Settings > Network & internet > SIMs. If you see an option to "Add eSIM" or "Download a SIM instead," your Pixel supports eSIM. You can also dial *#06# to display your device's IMEI numbers. If an EID (eSIM identifier) appears, your device has eSIM hardware. Remember that Pixel 2 and 3 will show eSIM capability but only work with Google Fi.
Can my Pixel run two eSIM profiles at the same time?
Yes, if you have a Pixel 7 or newer. The Pixel 7, 7 Pro, 7a, 8, 8 Pro, 8a, Fold, 9 series, and 10 series all support dual active eSIM. You can run two eSIM lines simultaneously, or one eSIM plus a physical nano-SIM. Pixel 6 and older models only support one active eSIM at a time alongside the physical SIM.
How do I install a travel eSIM on my Pixel?
Go to Settings > Network & internet > SIMs > Add eSIM. You can scan a QR code provided by your eSIM provider, or enter the activation details manually. Some providers also offer direct installation through their Android app. After installation, go back to SIMs settings to set the travel eSIM as your default data line while keeping your home carrier for calls and texts.
Does the Pixel 3a support travel eSIMs?
Yes. The Pixel 3a and 3a XL were the first Pixel phones to support eSIM from any carrier and third-party eSIM provider. Unlike the Pixel 2 and 3 (which are locked to Google Fi), the 3a works with Airalo, Holafly, Nomad, and all other major travel eSIM services. It supports one active eSIM plus a physical nano-SIM.
Can I transfer my eSIM when upgrading to a new Pixel?
Starting with Android 13, Google supports eSIM transfer during device setup. When you set up your new Pixel and transfer data from your old device, you will be prompted to move your eSIM profiles. Not all carriers support automatic transfer, so you may need to contact your carrier or re-scan the QR code from your eSIM provider. Travel eSIM providers typically let you re-download the profile through their app on the new device.
Why does my Pixel only show Google Fi as an eSIM option?
You likely have a Pixel 2 or Pixel 3. These models have eSIM hardware that Google restricted to Google Fi only. No software update or workaround can enable third-party eSIM on these devices. If you need a travel eSIM, you will need to upgrade to a Pixel 3a or newer model. The Pixel 3a (released May 2019) was the first Pixel to support open eSIM from any provider.
Does the Pixel Watch support travel eSIM providers?
No. The Pixel Watch eSIM only works through your carrier's wearable pairing service, which mirrors your phone's cellular plan to the watch. You cannot install a standalone eSIM from Airalo, Holafly, or other travel eSIM providers on a Pixel Watch. For travel connectivity on your watch, you need an international roaming plan from your home carrier, or you can rely on Bluetooth tethering from your Pixel phone.
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