fi.google.ios/quick Setup : Activate Google Fi on an iPhone with an eSIM
When you’ve confirmed your iPhone and iOS version are compatible with an eSIM, go to fi.google.com/ios/quicksetup on a separate device like a computer or tablet. It’s important that you have a separate device so you can use your iPhone to scan a QR code.
If you order a SIM card for your iPhone, you must activate service with your physical Fi SIM card before you can activate Fi with an eSIM.
You can activate Google Fi on iOS with an embedded SIM card (eSIM) instead of a physical SIM. You can also use cellular services with an eSIM.
eSIM benefits
- Quick and easy set-up process without the need for a physical SIM card.
- You can’t lose an eSIM.
- SIM card waste is eliminated and reduced.
- You can easily switch between your Google Fi eSIM and your carrier’s physical SIM card. No need to remove the physical SIM card.
Eligibility: Google Fi on iOS with an eSIM only works on iPhones SE (2020 version), XR, XS, XS Max, and 11 and up.
Step 1: Join Fi and check iPhone compatibility
- Go to the Google Fi website.
- At the top right, tap Join Fi.
- Select your iPhone from a list of models.
- If you select “Newest models” or “Newer models,” you can opt in to “Quick setup” to activate Fi on with an eSIM. With this option, the user doesn’t receive a physical SIM card
- If you select “Recent models” or “Older models,” follow the on-screen instructions. eSIM doesn’t work with older iPhone models
If eSIM works with your iPhone model, opt in to “Get set up in 15 minutes” during sign up so you can activate Fi with an eSIM
Step 2: Go to the Google Fi iOS app
- If you haven’t downloaded it already, download the Google Fi iOS app.
- Once you opt in to eSIM activation on the Fi website, the Google Fi iOS app will perform device and iOS compatibility checks.
- If both are compatible, select Get started to begin eSIM activation.
- If either are incompatible, you’ll get an error. You’ll be asked to order a physical SIM or to upgrade your iOS.
Step 3: Begin eSIM activation
If you have a second device or computer available (recommended)
- When you’ve confirmed your iPhone and iOS version are compatible with an eSIM, go to fi.google.com/ios/quicksetup on a separate device like a computer or tablet. It’s important that you have a separate device so you can use your iPhone to scan a QR code.
- If you’re not signed in to your account, you’ll be asked to sign in with your Fi account.
- Add Google Fi to your phone.
- Open your settings.
- Tap Cellular > Add Cellular Plans.
- Scan the QR code with the iPhone you want to activate Google Fi on and follow the on-screen instructions.
- Tap Add Cellular Plan.
- Update your network settings.
- Open your settings.
- Tap Cellular > Cellular Data Network.
- Enter the following texts into your settings field:
- Cellular Data APN: h2g2
- LTE Setup APN: h2g2
- MMS APN: h2g2
- MMSC: http://m.fi.goog/mms/wapenc
- MMS Max Message sizer: 23456789
- Personal Hotspot APN: h2g2-t
- Connect to a Wi-Fi network.
- Download the Google Fi app to get service. The app walks you through plan activation, phone number setup, and your preferences.
Tip: Make sure you sign into your Google Fi account and not another Google account. If for some reason the incorrect account was signed in and you need to scan a new code:
- On your iPhone or iPad, open your settings.
- Tap Cellular.
- Tap the plan you want to erase > Remove Cellular Plan.
If the QR code doesn’t work: Refresh the QR code page and scan the new QR code. If you need help, contact support. If the QR code page is on a computer and you can’t find the instructions, increase the width of your browser window.
If you don’t have a second device available
- Select “Don’t have a computer?”
- Follow the instructions on the Fi app.
Switch between a physical SIM card and an eSIM
If you’re already a Fi user, you can switch between a physical SIM and an eSIM.
Important: Before you suggest these steps, verify that the user is in the US. Activation must take place in the US, if the user switches SIMs while roaming internationally, it may affect their ability to roam.
To switch from a physical SIM to an eSIM:
- Make sure your physical SIM is inserted
- Delete and reinstall the Google Fi iOS app
- Sign in to the app with your Fi account
- When prompted to set up the physical SIM card or eSIM, tap Set up using eSIM
To switch from an eSIM to a physical SIM:
- Make sure you have an active eSIM and insert the physical SIM.
- Delete and reinstall the Google Fi iOS app.
- Sign in to the app with your Fi account.
- When prompted, tap Continue.
Tip: When you switch from a physical SIM to an eSIM, your iPhone may have multiple cellular profiles associated with your number. If you can’t make or receive calls, delete the old physical SIM cellular profile.