eSIM transfer to new phone failed

Symptoms

• Transfer QR code or prompt fails partway through
• New phone shows 'eSIM setup failed' or times out
• Old phone loses service before the new one gets it
• Carrier app shows the transfer as incomplete

Likely causes

• CommonWeak Wi-Fi or cellular connection during transfereSIM transfers need a stable internet connection on the phone(s) involved.
• CommonTransfer attempted with the old phone already reset or offlineSome transfer methods need the old phone to still be active and connected during the process.
• PossibleCarrier account not fully synced or transfer request expiredTransfer authorizations from the carrier can time out after a set window.
• Less commonSoftware incompatibility between very old and very new phone modelsSome direct phone-to-phone eSIM transfer features require both phones to support the same protocol.

What to do

1. Make sure both phones (if using both) are on Wi-Fi and fully charged before starting.
2. Follow your specific carrier's recommended transfer method exactly, since steps differ between direct phone-to-phone transfer, a QR code, and an app-based transfer.
3. If using a QR code, generate a fresh one from the carrier's website or app rather than reusing an old one.
4. Keep the old phone powered on and connected until the new phone confirms the eSIM is active.
5. If the transfer fails, restart both phones and try again from the beginning rather than resuming midway.
6. Contact your carrier's support to manually reprovision the eSIM to the new phone if self-service transfer keeps failing.

When to call a pro

If self-service transfer fails repeatedly, contact your carrier's support directly; they can push the eSIM profile to your new phone from their system.

Safety