Device Compatibility, eSIM

Google Pixel eSIM: Compatibility, Activation & Setup

Google Pixel phones have supported eSIM since the Pixel 3, with full unrestricted support from Pixel 4 onwards. Here's every compatible model, the dual eSIM upgrade from Pixel 7, and how to activate a travel eSIM.

TL;DR: Google Pixel phones have supported eSIM since the Pixel 3 (2018). Every Pixel from the Pixel 4 onwards supports eSIM with no regional restrictions. Pixel 7 and later support dual active eSIM - two lines simultaneously, no physical SIM required. Pixel 3 and 3a have regional and carrier exceptions. Pixel 2 supports eSIM only on Google Fi in the US. Your device must be carrier-unlocked to activate a travel eSIM like Nomad.

Close up of a Pixel cell phone on a table

Google Pixel eSIM Compatible Phones: Full Model List

Pixel 10 Series: Pixel 10 / 10 Pro / 10 Pro XL / 10 Pro Fold
Pixel 9 Series: Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, 9a, 9 Pro Fold
Pixel 8 Series: Pixel 8, 8 Pro, 8a
Pixel 7 Series: Pixel 7, 7 Pro, 7a
Pixel 6 Series: Pixel 6, 6 Pro, 6a
Pixel 5 Series: Pixel 5, 5a (5G)
Pixel 4 Series: Pixel 4, 4 XL, 4a, 4a (5G)
Foldables: Pixel Fold

Older Models with Limitations:

Pixel 3 & 3 XL: Only models from Google or Verizon. (Excluded: Australia, Japan, and Taiwan variants).
Pixel 3a & 3a XL: Works on most global models (Excluded: Japan, South East Asia, and Verizon variants).
Pixel 2 & 2 XL: Only devices purchased through Google Fi

From Pixel 4 onwards, eSIM works in all regions with no carrier restrictions — making the Pixel 4+ the safe baseline for travel eSIM use. For a broader Android eSIM device reference, see the full Android eSIM compatibility guide.

Comparing devices? See our compatibility guides for other device types:

Pixel Dual Active eSIM: What It Means for Travelers

Starting with the Pixel 7 series, Google enabled dual active eSIM: two eSIM lines running simultaneously without needing a physical SIM card at all. This means, you can

Store your home eSIM (or keep your physical SIM) on one line for calls and SMS
Activate a Nomad travel eSIM as your data line — no roaming charges
Both lines stay active simultaneously; switch data preference in Settings in seconds
No SIM swapping, no risk of losing a card abroad

On Pixel 4, 5, and 6 series, one active eSIM + one physical SIM is supported. This is still fully functional for travel, just requires a physical SIM in the tray for your home line.

How To Check If My Google Pixel is eSIM Compatible?

Method 1: Settings

Go to Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs
Tap the + icon or look for Add SIM
If you see Download a SIM or Set up eSIM, your Pixel supports eSIM

Method 2: Dial *#06#

Dial *#06#. If a 32-digit EID appears alongside your IMEI, eSIM hardware is present.

Method 3: Nomad eSIM Device Checker

Use the Nomad eSIM device compatibility checker to confirm instantly.

Not sure what to look for beyond hardware? This guide on how to know if your phone is ready for a travel eSIM covers unlock status, carrier requirements, and more.

Does My Pixel Need to Be Unlocked for eSIM?

Yes, a carrier-locked Pixel will block eSIM activation for other networks. Pixels bought directly from the Google Store are unlocked. Carrier-purchased devices (e.g. Verizon, T-Mobile, EE) may be locked. Contact your carrier to request an unlock before purchasing a Nomad plan.

Note: Pixel 3 models purchased on most US or Canadian carriers (other than Sprint or Google Fi) do not support eSIM regardless of lock status. This is a hardware restriction specific to those variants.

How to Activate a Travel eSIM on Google Pixel

Purchase a Nomad eSIM plan. You can buy in advance and activate only on arrival
Receive your QR code by email
On your Pixel: Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs → Add SIM (+)
Select Download a SIM (or Set up eSIM)
Scan your Nomad QR code. Installation takes 2–5 minutes on Wi-Fi
Set the Nomad eSIM as your preferred data line under Preferred SIMs
Keep your physical SIM or home eSIM active for calls and texts

Tip: If your QR code is displayed on the same Pixel screen you're trying to scan from, take a screenshot and use the manual entry option instead — go to Need help? → Enter code manually and paste the activation string.

For screenshots and full walkthrough: step-by-step guide to installing an eSIM on Android.

Using eSIM and Physical SIM Simultaneously on Pixel

All eSIM-capable Pixels support running a physical SIM and an eSIM at the same time. On Pixel 7 and later, two eSIMs run simultaneously with no physical SIM needed at all.

Home SIM or home eSIM handles calls and SMS. Your number stays the same.
Nomad eSIM handles local data while traveling.
Installing a travel eSIM does not change your existing phone number.

Full setup guide: how to run a physical SIM and eSIM at the same time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Google Pixel 7 support eSIM?

Yes, the Pixel 7, 7 Pro, and 7a all support eSIM. The Pixel 7 series was the first to support dual active eSIM, with two lines running simultaneously and no physical SIM required.

Does the Google Pixel 8 support eSIM?

Yes, the Pixel 8, 8 Pro, and 8a all support eSIM with dual active eSIM capability.

Does the Google Pixel 9 support eSIM?

Yes, the entire Pixel 9 series (Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, 9 Pro Fold, and 9a) supports eSIM with dual active eSIM on all variants.

Does the Pixel 6 support eSIM?

Yes, the Pixel 6, 6 Pro, and 6a support eSIM. They support one active eSIM alongside a physical SIM, but not dual active eSIM (that starts with Pixel 7).

Does the Pixel 4a support eSIM?

Yes, the Pixel 4a and 4a 5G both support eSIM with no regional restrictions. One active eSIM + one physical SIM.

Does the Pixel 3 support eSIM?

Partially, the Pixel 3 and 3 XL support eSIM on most global variants, but not on devices purchased in Australia, Taiwan, or Japan, or on most US/Canadian carriers other than Sprint and Google Fi. If your Pixel 3 was bought unlocked from Google, it supports eSIM.

Can the Pixel 2 use a travel eSIM?

No, the Pixel 2 supports eSIM only with Google Fi in the US. It is not compatible with third-party travel eSIM providers including Nomad.

How many eSIM profiles can a Pixel store?

Most Pixel models can store multiple eSIM profiles and switch between them on demand. You don't need to delete a plan to add a new destination. Only one (or two on Pixel 7+) can be active at any time.

How does Pixel eSIM compare to Samsung or iPhone eSIM?

The underlying eSIM standard is identical across all brands - activation, QR codes, and travel eSIM providers like Nomad work the same way. Pixel stands out for early adoption and the smoothest dual active eSIM experience on Android. See the Samsung eSIM compatibility guide for a direct Galaxy comparison.

Check Your Pixel and Get Connected

Confirm your device is eSIM ready and browse Nomad eSIM plans for over 200 destinations.

Looking for a budget Pixel option? The Pixel 7a and 8a are among the cheapest phones with full eSIM support.

Nomad eSIM Free Trial

Try Nomad eSIM risk-free with our free trial—no contracts, no commitment. Set up in minutes, enjoy secure connectivity, and manage everything easily through the Nomad eSIM app.