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Managing your eSIM.
An eSIM, as opposed to a physical SIM card, is a SIM that’s already embedded into selected mobile phones, tablets and smart watches. You can sign up to a plan to use with an eSIM and an eSIM enabled device online.
We have a range of eSIM enabled phones.
| Apple | Samsung | |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 12 | Google Pixel 3a | Samsung Galaxy Fold |
| iPhone 12 Pro | Google Pixel 4 | Samsung Galaxy S20 |
| iPhone SE (second generation) | Google Pixel 4 XL | Samsung Galaxy S20 5G |
| iPhone 11 | Google Pixel 4a | Samsung Galaxy S20+ |
| iPhone 11 Pro | Google Pixel 5 | Samsung Galaxy S20+ 5G |
| iPhone 11 Pro Max | Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G | |
| Samsung Galaxy Z Flip | ||
| Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G | ||
| Samsung Galaxy Note20 5G | ||
| Samsung Galaxy Note20 |
How to activate a plan on your eSIM enabled phone.
Here are the steps to activate your plan with your eSIM enabled phone.
If you’re new to Vodafone, you’ll need to first transfer your number to us and follow the steps below with your eSIM enabled phone.
If you’re already with Vodafone on a postpaid or prepaid plan, you’ll need to swap your current SIM through our SIM swap process and follow the steps below with your eSIM enabled phone.
In preparation for activating your plan on an eSIM enabled phone, make sure you have the following:
- The eSIM enabled phone you’ll be using with your new plan. Connect this phone to the internet through either Wi-Fi or a mobile network.
- Your eSIM QR code displayed on another device or as a printed copy for you to scan
- Your 4 digit eSIM Confirmation Code
Step 1: Add mobile plan in your device settings
| Apple | Samsung | |
|---|---|---|
| Go to ‘Settings’ Choose ‘Mobile’ or ‘Mobile Data’ Choose ‘Add Mobile Plan’ or ‘Add Data Plan’ |
Go to ‘Settings’ Choose ‘Network & Internet’ Choose + symbol next to ‘Mobile network’, tap ‘Don’t have a SIM card?’ or ‘Download a SIM instead?’ and then ‘Next’. |
Go to ‘Settings’ Choose 'Connections’ Choose ‘SIM card manager’ Choose ‘Add mobile plan’ Choose ‘Add using QR code’ |
| This will launch a QR code reader. | When asked ‘Use 2 numbers’, tap ‘No thanks’ if you would like to use an eSIM by itself. This will launch a QR code reader. | This will launch a QR code reader. |
| If you would like to use both a physical SIM and an eSIM with your device, tap ‘Continue’ and then ‘Restart’. Once your device has restarted, you will then have to repeat the above steps. This will launch a QR code reader. |
Step 2: Scan QR code
Before scanning, make sure the QR code you have is for the plan you want to use with your device.
The QR code needs to be displayed on another device or as a printed copy so that you’re able to scan it.
If you are having trouble scanning your QR code, follow the below steps to enter your eSIM details manually.These details will be provided to you either in the PDF document from your Activation or SIM swap email, or when you head in store.
| Apple | Samsung | |
|---|---|---|
| In the QR code scanner, press the link to ‘Enter Details Manually’. | In the QR code scanner, press the link ‘Need help?’ and then ‘Enter it manually’ | Go to ‘Settings’ Choose ‘Connections’ Choose ‘SIM card manager’ Choose ‘Add mobile plan’ Choose ‘Add using activation code’ |
| Enter the details as requested. | Enter activation code in the following format: | Enter activation code in the following format: |
| LPA:1$SM-DP+ Address$Activation Code | LPA:1$SM-DP+ Address$Activation Code |
Step 3: Enter your eSIM Confirmation Code
Your eSIM Confirmation Code is a 4 digit code. You may have requested a copy of this code sent via SMS. If you’ve forgotten your eSIM Confirmation Code you can call us on 1300 650 410 for a reminder.
Step 4: Wait for eSIM activation
Once your eSIM plan has been added, you’ll be able to set up your preferred SIM settings. If you’ve swapped your SIM and you only have 1 plan, select the new eSIM as the primary plan.
If you have any questions, please call us on 1300 650 410 between 8am and 8pm AEST Monday to Friday or between 8am and 5.30pm AEST on the weekend.
Additional information.
How do I change between an eSIM and a physical SIM?
If you would like to change between a physical SIM and an eSIM, follow our SIM swap journey online or head to your nearest Vodafone store.
You will need to have a valid email address connected to your Vodafone account in order to complete a SIM swap. To update your email address, please head in store or call 1300 650 410.
How do I manage multiple plans on my eSIM?
While an eSIM enabled device gives you the ability to activate multiple plans, you can only use one plan at a time.
Once you have more than one plan activated on your device, you can label your plans. For example, you could label one plan Primary and another Secondary, or one plan Work and another Personal. With these labels, you can choose which phone number to use for different functions, such as making and receiving calls and messages or using data.
Can I use a physical SIM with an eSIM?
Yes. If your device is dual SIM enabled, you can use both a physical SIM and an eSIM. Therefore simultaneously you can have 1 plan active on your physical SIM and 1 plan active on your eSIM. This means that you can receive calls to both numbers and select which plan you want to use when calling, sending a text or using data. If you are currently on a call using 1 SIM, any calls to your other SIM will be directed to voicemail.
How do I manage calls with multiple plans?
If you receive a call to a phone number that you don’t have active at that time, the call will automatically divert to voicemail. You won’t receive an alert message or call alert, until you switch to that plan.
iPhone
You can switch phone numbers for a call on an eSIM enabled iPhone. If you are calling a contact in your Favourites list, tap the information symbol, then current phone number. Select the number you would like to use for your call. If you are using the keypad, enter the phone number you want to call, tap the phone number near the top of the screen and then select the number you would like to use for your call.
Google Pixel
You can also switch phone numbers for a call on an eSIM enabled Google Pixel by following these steps:
- Go to ‘Settings’
- Choose ‘Network & Internet’
- Choose the SIM you would like to manage call settings for
- Choose ‘Call preference’ and select your desired number
Samsung
You can switch phone numbers for a call on a eSIM enabled Samsung device by following these steps:
- Go to ‘Settings’
- Choose ‘Connections’
- Choose ‘SIM card manager’
- Choose ‘Calls’ and select your desired number
If you are using the keypad, enter the phone number you want to call and then choose the phone number you would like to use for your call at the bottom of the screen. In Contacts, tap on the contact you would like to call and then select the number you would like to use for the call.
How do I choose which number to send iMessages from?
If you are using an eSIM enabled iPhone, you can choose which number your iMessages are sent from.
- Go to ‘Settings’
- Choose ‘Messages’
- Choose ‘iMessage and FaceTime Line’
- Select the phone number you want to send from
How do I choose which number to send SMS and MMS from?
iPhone
With an eSIM enabled iPhone, follow these steps to choose which number your SMS and MMS will be sent from.
- Open Messages
- Tap the New Button (located in the upper right corner of the screen)
- Enter your contact’s name
- Tap on the current phone number
- Select the phone number you want to send from
Google Pixel
With an eSIM enabled Google Pixel device, follow these steps to choose which number your SMS and MMS will be sent from.
- Open Messages
- Tap ‘Start chat’ or open an existing conversation
- Enter your contact’s name
- Tap the icon to the right of the text bar and choose the SIM you would like to use.
You can also follow these steps to change the default SIM for your messages.
- Go to ‘Settings’
- Choose ‘Network & Internet’
- Choose the SIM you would like to manage SMS and MMS settings for
- Choose ‘SMS preference’ and select your desired number
Samsung
With an eSIM enabled Samsung device, follow these steps to choose which number your SMS and MMS will be sent from.
- Open Messages
- Tap the message icon at the bottom right of your screen or open an existing conversation
- Enter your contact’s name
- Tap the icon to the right of the text bar and choose the SIM you would like to use
How do I choose which number to use data with?
iPhone
If you are using an eSIM enabled iPhone, follow these steps to choose which number to use data with.
- Go to ‘Settings’
- Choose either Cellular or Mobile Data
- Choose Cellular Data
- Select the plan you want to use data with
Google Pixel
If you are using an eSIM enabled Google Pixel device, follow these steps to choose which number to use data with.
- Go to ‘Settings’
- Choose Network & Internet
- Choose the SIM you would like to manage data settings for
- Toggle on ‘Mobile data’
Samsung
If you are using an eSIM enabled Samsung device, follow these steps to choose which number to use data with.
- Go to ‘Settings’
- Choose ‘Connections’
- Choose ‘SIM card manager’
- Choose ‘Mobile Data’ and select the plan you want to use data with
How does $5 Roaming work with an eSIM?
If you have 1 plan on your eSIM, then you’ll be charged $5 extra a day when you use your plan in a $5 Roaming eligible country.
If you have 1 plan active on an eSIM and another plan loaded on either a physical SIM or an eSIM, then you’ll be charged $5 extra a day if you use only 1 plan in a $5 Roaming eligible country and $10 extra a day if you use both plans in a $5 Roaming eligible country.
Can I use a prepaid plan with my eSIM?
Yes. To use a prepaid plan with your eSIM and eSIM enabled device, you must first activate your prepaid plan with a physical SIM, swap to an eSIM online through our SIM swap process and then follow the eSIM activation steps. You can also SIM swap by heading in store.
You will need to have a valid email address connected to your Vodafone account in order to complete a SIM swap. To update your email address, please head in store or call 1300 650 410.
How do I cancel my eSIM?
You can only cancel your eSIM by calling us on 1555 or heading in store.
Although you may be able to remove or disable your eSIM from your device, this will not cancel your plan.
How do I complete a factory reset on my phone without removing my eSIM?
iPhone
You can follow these steps to complete a factory reset on your eSIM enabled iPhone.
- Go to ‘Settings’
- Choose ‘General’
- Choose ‘Reset’
- Choose ‘Erase All Content and Settings’
- Choose ‘Erase iPhone’
- Choose ‘Erase All and Keep Mobile Plans’.
If you choose ‘Erase All’, your eSIM will be removed. You will need to complete a SIM swap and add your mobile plan to your device again to continue using your eSIM plan.
Google Pixel
You can follow these steps to complete a factory reset on your eSIM enabled Google Pixel device.
- Go to ‘Settings’
- Choose ‘System’
- Choose ‘Advanced’
- Choose ‘Reset Options’
- Choose ‘Erase all data’
- Your eSIM will automatically be retained.
If you choose ‘Erase downloaded SIMs’, your eSIM will be removed. You will need to complete a SIM swap and add your mobile plan to your device again to continue using your eSIM plan.
Samsung
You can follow these steps to complete a factory reset on your eSIM enabled Samsung device.
- Go to ‘Settings’
- Choose ‘General management’
- Choose ‘Reset’
- Choose ‘Factory data reset’
- Choose ‘Reset’
- Your eSIM will be automatically retained.
If you choose ‘eSIMs’, your eSIM will be removed. You will need to complete a SIM swap by heading in store.
I have an eSIM enabled phone that’s not listed above. Can I still get an eSIM plan?
While your phone may be eSIM enabled, it may not be compatible with Vodafone eSIM. You can check if your phone is eligible for eSIM by calling 1300 650 410.
We have a range of eSIM enabled tablets.
| Apple |
|---|
| 12.9 inch iPad Pro (3rd generation) |
| 11 inch iPad Pro |
| 10.5 inch iPad Air 2019 |
| iPad mini 5 |
| 10.2 inch iPad (7th generation) |
| 10.2 inch iPad (8th generation) |
| iPad Air (4th generation) |
How to activate a plan on your eSIM enabled tablet.
Here are the steps to activate your plan with your eSIM enabled tablet.
If you’re new to Vodafone, you’ll need to first transfer your number to us and then follow the steps below with your eSIM enabled tablet.
If you’re already with Vodafone, you’ll need to first SIM swap your SIM to your new or existing eSIM enabled tablet and then follow the steps below.
In preparation for activating your plan on an eSIM enabled tablet, make sure you have the following:
- The eSIM enabled tablet you’ll be using with your new plan. Connect this tablet to the internet through either Wi-Fi or a mobile network
- Your eSIM QR code displayed on another device or as a printed copy for you to scan
- Your 4 digit eSIM Confirmation Code
Step 1: Add mobile plan in your device settings
- Go to ‘Settings’
- Choose ‘Mobile Data’
- Choose ‘Add Mobile Plan’ or ‘Add a New Plan’ (if available)
- Select ‘Other…’ (if available)
This will launch your tablet’s camera which can then read the QR code reader.
Step 2: Scan eSIM QR code
Before scanning, make sure the QR code you have is for the plan you want to use with your device.
The QR code needs to be displayed on another device or as a printed copy.
If you are having trouble scanning your QR code, enter your eSIM details manually - press the link to ‘Enter Details Manually’. These details will be provided to you either in the PDF document from your Activation or SIM swap email, or when you head in store.
If you’ve swapped your SIM and you only have 1 plan, select the new eSIM as the primary plan.
Step 3: Enter your eSIM Confirmation Code
Your eSIM Confirmation Code is a 4 digit code. You may have requested a copy of this code sent via SMS. If you’ve forgotten your eSIM Confirmation Code you can call us on 1300 650 410 for a reminder.
Step 4: Wait for eSIM activation
Once your eSIM plan has been added, you’ll be able to set up your preferred SIM settings. If you’ve swapped your SIM and you only have 1 plan, select the new eSIM as the primary plan.
If you have any questions, please call us on 1300 650 410 between 8am and 8pm AEST Monday to Friday or between 8am and 5.30pm AEST on the weekend.
Additional information.
How do I change between an eSIM and a physical SIM?
If you would like to change between a physical SIM and an eSIM, follow our SIM swap journey online or head to your nearest Vodafone store.
You will need to have a valid email address connected to your Vodafone account in order to complete a SIM swap. To update your email address, please head in store or call 1300 650 410.
Can I use a physical SIM with an eSIM?
No. While you can have a physical SIM and an eSIM within your tablet, only one can be active at a time.
How many plans can I have on my eSIM?
You can only have one plan on your eSIM when using a tablet.
How do I choose which plan to use data with?
You can choose which number to use data with.
- Go to ‘Settings’
- Choose either Cellular or Mobile Data
- Choose Cellular Data
- Select the plan you want to use data with
How does $5 Roaming work with an eSIM?
If you have 1 plan on your eSIM, then you’ll be charged $5 extra a day when you use your plan in a $5 Roaming eligible country.
Can I use a prepaid plan with my eSIM?
Yes. To use a prepaid plan with your eSIM and eSIM enabled device, you must first activate your prepaid plan with a physical SIM, swap to an eSIM online through our SIM swap process and then follow the eSIM activation steps. You can also SIM swap by heading in store.
You will need to have a valid email address connected to your Vodafone account in order to complete a SIM swap. To update your email address, please head in store or call 1300 650 410.
How do I cancel my eSIM?
You can only cancel your eSIM by calling us on 1555 or heading in store.
Although you may be able to remove or disable your eSIM from your device, this will not cancel your plan.
I have an eSIM enabled tablet that’s not listed above. Can I still get an eSIM plan?
While your tablet may be eSIM enabled, it may not be compatible with Vodafone eSIM. You can check if your tablet is eligible for eSIM by calling 1300 650 410.
How do I complete a factory reset on my tablet without removing my eSIM?
You can follow these steps to complete a factory reset on your eSIM enabled tablet.
- Go to ‘Settings’
- Choose ‘General’
- Choose ‘Reset’
- Choose ‘Erase All Content and Settings’
- Choose ‘Erase iPad’
- Choose ‘Erase All and Keep Data Plans’.
If you choose ‘Erase All’, your eSIM will be removed. You will need to complete a SIM swap and add your plan to your device again to continue using your eSIM plan.
We have a range of eSIM enabled smart watches available. Vodafone NumberSync™ allows you to share your plan inclusions and phone number with an eligible smart watch. That means you can use your smart watch to make and receive calls, send messages and use data on the Vodafone network – even when you’re away from your phone.
To get Vodafone NumberSync™, you’ll need an eligible eSIM-enabled smart watch, an eligible Vodafone phone plan and a compatible phone.
eSIM enabled smart watches and their compatible phones.
| Eligible smart watch | Compatible phones |
|---|---|
| Apple Watch Series 3 (GPS + Cellular) | iPhone 6s or above with updated carrier settings and iOS 13 or later. |
| Apple Watch Series 4 (GPS + Cellular) | iPhone 6s or above with updated carrier settings and iOS 13 or later. |
| Apple Watch Series 5 (GPS + Cellular) | iPhone 6s or above with updated carrier settings and iOS 13 or later. |
| Samsung Galaxy Watch | Samsung Galaxy device running Android 5.0 or above with a minimum of 1.5GB RAM. |
| Samsung Galaxy Watch Active2 | Samsung Galaxy device running Android 5.0 or above with a minimum of 1.5GB RAM. |
| Samsung Galaxy Watch3 | Samsung Galaxy device running Android 5.0 or above with a minimum of 1.5GB RAM. |
How do I sign up to Vodafone NumberSync™?
Apple Watch
Follow these instructions to sign up to Vodafone Numbersync™:
Step 1: Turn on your Apple Watch and open the Watch app on your phone.
Step 2: Follow the steps to pair your phone and Apple Watch via Bluetooth.
Step 3: When prompted, sign up for a Vodafone Numbersync™ subscription.
Step 4: Your Apple Watch will connect to our network automatically.
Samsung Watch
Watch the video tutorial below on how to sign up to Vodafone NumberSync™. You can sign up when you first set up your new Samsung Galaxy Watch, or later with the Wearable app on your Samsung phone.
*Galaxy Watch App now available on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
*Cellular variant compatible with: (1) Samsung Galaxy devices running Android 5.0 and above that have a minimum of 1.5 GB RAM, and (2) non-Samsung devices running Android 5.0 and above that have a minimum of 1.5 GB RAM. If cellular variant paired with an Apple iPhone 5 device or later running iOS 9.or above, cellular variant will be limited to Bluetooth functionality (incoming call/message notifications only).
Additional information.
Do I need Vodafone NumberSync™ to use my smart watch?
No, you don’t need Vodafone NumberSync™ to use your smart watch. You can pair your smart watch to your smartphone via Bluetooth. NumberSync™ connects your smart watch to the Vodafone network so you can use it independently of your smartphone even when your phone is switched off or out of Bluetooth range.
When paired without NumberSync™, your smart watch must be near your smartphone to make and receive calls, messages and data.
How can I cancel my Vodafone NumberSync™ subscription?
You can only cancel your Vodafone NumberSync™ subscription by calling us on 1555 or heading in store.
Removing ‘voda AU Plan’ from your Watch or Wearable app will disconnect your smart watch from the Vodafone network but will not cancel your NumberSync™ subscription.
You can cancel your subscription at any time. If you cancel partway through your billing cycle, you’ll only be charged up to the date you cancelled.
If you cancel your Vodafone plan, your NumberSync™ subscription will be cancelled automatically.
How can I update the software for my smartphone or smart watch?
iOS
To get the latest version of iOS for your iPhone, tap Settings > General > Software Update.
To update your carrier settings, go to Settings > General > About on your iPhone. If new carrier settings are available, you can update them here.
To get the latest version of Watch OS, open the Watch app on your iPhone and tap General > Software Update.
AndroidTo update the software on your Android phone, tap Settings > Software Update > Download updates manually or Scheduled software update.
To update the software on your Android smart watch, open the Wearable app on your Phone and tap Settings > About watch > Update watch software > Update now or Auto update.
Using your smart watch with Vodafone NumberSync™.
I have a smart watch that’s not listed above. Can I still get a NumberSync™ subscription?
If you have a smart watch that’s not listed above, it may not be compatible with Vodafone NumberSync™. You can check if your smart watch is compatible by calling 1300 650 410.
What happens when a call is made to my Vodafone mobile number?
When a call is made to your mobile number, your phone and smart watch will ring at the same time. You can answer the call on either device.
Can I answer a call on my smart watch while I’m taking a call on my phone?
Yes, you can answer another call on your smart watch while taking a call on your phone.
Can I transfer calls between my phone and smart watch?
No, you’re unable to transfer calls between your phone and smart watch.
What number will be displayed when I make a call or send a text from my smart watch?
The person you’re calling or texting will see your Vodafone mobile phone number. This is the same number they will see if you call or text them from your phone.
What happens if I have barring set up for my phone?
If you have barring set up for your phone, it will also apply to your smart watch. This includes barring for calls, SMS/MMS, data usage and video calling.
Can I make emergency calls from my smart watch?
With NumberSync™, emergency calls from your smart watch work the same way as they do for your phone. Because your smart watch is connected to the Vodafone network, emergency services can identify your location.
Can I use NumberSync™ with more than one smart watch?
No, only one smart watch can be connected to your plan with Vodafone NumberSync™. If you wish to connect a different smart watch, you can do this with the Watch or Wearable app on your phone.
Can I transfer NumberSync™ from one smart watch to another?
You can only transfer your existing NumberSync™ subscription from one to another if the two smart watches are from same manufacturer (ie. Apple Watch 3 and Apple Watch 4).
If the watches are from different manufacturer (ie. Apple Watch 3 and Samsung Watch 4G), you will need to cancel subscription on the old watch and activated it on the new watch. You can do so by giving us a call on 1555.
What should I do if my smart watch or phone is lost or stolen?
If your smart watch is lost or stolen, immediately unpair it from your phone with the Watch or Wearable app. Then cancel your NumberSync subscription by giving us a call on 1555.
If your phone is lost or stolen, give us a call on 1555. We can block your phone so that it can’t be used. This block will only apply to your phone, not your smart watch.
For more information, check out our support page on lost and stolen devices.
Can I use international roaming with my smart watch?
$5 Roaming and international roaming are not available with Numbersync™. Your smart watch will not be able to connect to a mobile network overseas.
Vodafone NumberSync™ and your bill.
How will I be charged for NumberSync™?
NumberSync™ costs $5 per month. This monthly charge will continue until you cancel your subscription.
If you sign up to NumberSync™ on Apple Watch Series 5 (GPS + Cellular) by 31 December 2019, you will receive 3 months free.
One smart watch cannot receive the free month(s) offer more than once.
This offer will appear as credit on your bill, and will be applied within your first four billing cycles. If you cancel within the free month period, you will receive a pro-rated amount of credit.
How are calls, text and data usage from my smart watch charged?
Any calls or texts from your smart watch will count towards your plan’s monthly usage. If the combined usage of your phone and smart watch exceed your inclusions, you’ll be charged as per your phone plan’s terms and conditions.
What will appear on my bill if I make a call from my smart watch and phone at the same time?
There will be two separate lines on the bill showing each call.
What if my employer pays for my Vodafone plan?
You can still sign up to NumberSync™ for your smart watch.
You’ll need the Billing Account PIN for your Vodafone account to set up Vodafone NumberSync™. You may need to contact your employer for this information.