eSIM (embedded SIM) technology is rapidly gaining popularity in Russia, offering users of smartphones based on Android a convenient alternative to physical plastic cards. Instead of a bulky SIM card tray, operators, including the market leader MTS, allow you to activate the number directly in the device memory. This opens up new opportunities for travelers and those who prefer minimalism in gadgets.
Many users are wondering whether it is possible to connect a virtual SIM card MTS to Android for free and what pitfalls exist in this process. Indeed, the profile activation procedure itself does not require additional payment from the operator, however, there are technical limitations depending on the model of your smartphone and the version of the operating system. It is important to understand the difference between the concepts of “virtual number” and “eSIM”, since these are different services.
In this article we will analyze in detail all the stages: from checking the compatibility of your device to scanning the QR code and setting up the Internet. You will learn how to transfer your current number to eSIM without losing your balance and contacts, and also familiarize yourself with typical errors when setting up a profile.
Checking smartphone compatibility and eSIM support
The first and most critical step is to check the hardware ability of your gadget to work with the technology eSIM. Not all smartphones, even those released in recent years, are equipped with a built-in chip for virtual SIM cards. The operator Android, even those released in recent years, are equipped with a built-in chip for virtual SIM cards. Operator MTS will not be able to activate the service if the hardware of your phone does not support this standard.
Usually eSIM support is present in flagship models of brands such as Samsung, Google Pixel, Motorola and some versions Xiaomi. To make sure that a module is available, it is not necessary to search the Internet for information on a specific model. The most reliable way is to check the settings of the device itself. Go to the section Settings → Connections → SIM card manager or Settings → Network and Internet → Mobile network.
If you see the option "Add tariff plan" or "Add eSIM", which means your device is ready for use. You can also enter a special code into the phone book: *#06#. After typing, a list of identifiers should be displayed on the screen, including EID (Embedded Identity Document). It is this number that the operator will need to link the profile to your device.
- 📱 Check the availability of the "Add eSIM" item in the network settings.
- 🔢 Enter the code
*#06#and find the EID number in the list. - 🌐 Make sure that the smartphone is not locked to another operator (does not have a network lock).
- 🔄 Update the phone firmware to the latest available version for stable operation of the module.
⚠️ Attention: If not in the settings mentions of eSIM, but the code *#06# does not produce an EID number, then software installation of a virtual SIM card is impossible. Do not try to use third-party applications from the Play Market that promise SIM card emulation - this is a scam.
Preparing to activate the MTS profile
Before initiating the connection process, you need to make sure that you have access to the operator’s personal account or the opportunity to visit the sales office. To activate eSIM on Android you will need a stable Internet connection, since the profile will be downloaded over the air (OTA). It is recommended to use Wi-Fi to avoid download gaps at a critical moment.
If you want to keep your current number, you will need to go through the procedure of replacing your physical SIM card with a virtual one. In this case, the old plastic card will stop working immediately after activating the new profile. Make sure in advance that you remember the password for your personal account MTS or have access to the number to receive SMS confirmation codes.
For new subscribers, the process is even simpler: you can draw up an agreement remotely or in the salon, immediately receiving a QR code for activation. The remaining profiles go into standby mode and can be switched in the settings.
☑️ Ready for eSIM connection
Methods of connecting MTS eSIM on Android
Operator MTS offers several scenarios for connecting a virtual SIM card, each of which has its own characteristics. The choice of method depends on whether you are an existing subscriber or plan to become one, as well as on your current location.
The most common way for existing clients is to visit the sales office. The manager will issue a replacement SIM card, and you will immediately receive a printed receipt with QR code. This code contains encrypted profile data. Scanning the code through the smartphone camera starts automatic loading of network settings into the device’s memory.
For new subscribers or those who prefer remote service, activation is available through the app My MTS or website. In your personal account in the SIM card management section, you can order an eSIM issue. After processing the application, the QR code will be sent to the linked email or displayed directly in the application interface.
| Connection method | Required documents | Activation time | Cost services |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visit to a communication salon | Russian Federation passport | 15-30 minutes | Free (if replaced) |
| Through the My MTS application | Access to your personal account, passport data | Up to 24 hours | Free |
| Online on the website | Registration on the portal | Up to 24 hours | Free |
| For corporate clients | Power of attorney, passport | Individually | At tariff |
⚠️ Attention: The eSIM activation QR code is a one-time use and has a limited validity period. Do not take screenshots or share the code with third parties. If the code was accidentally deleted or expired, you will need to request a reissue from the store or through support.
Before scanning the QR code, increase the screen brightness to maximum if you are displaying the code from another device, or ensure good lighting when scanning paper media. This will help the camera recognize the matrix faster.
Step-by-step guide for installing a profile
After receiving the QR code from MTS the most important stage begins - installing the profile in the system Android. The interface may differ slightly depending on the manufacturer's shell (One UI, MIUI, ColorOS, etc.), but the general algorithm of actions remains the same for the entire ecosystem.
Open the phone settings and find the section responsible for SIM cards. In pure Android this is the way Settings → Network and Internet → Mobile network → Add tariff plan. On devices Samsung the path may look like Settings → Connections → SIM card manager → Add tariff plan.
Click the add button and select the option to scan the QR code through the camera. Point the lens at the code received from the operator. The system automatically reads the data and prompts you to confirm adding a new tariff. You will be asked to select a name for this SIM card (for example, “MTS Work” or “MTS Personal”) and assign its priority for calls and mobile data.
Menu path for most Android:
Settings → Connections → SIM card manager → Add tariff plan → Scan QR code
After successful reading, the phone will begin downloading the profile. This process may take from a few seconds to a couple of minutes. When finished, you will see the new network in the list of available ones. Don't forget to activate the switch next to the new profile so that it starts working.
What to do if the camera does not read the code?
If the built-in scanning tool does not work, try taking a high-quality photo of the QR code, saving it in the gallery, and then selecting “Select from gallery” or “Upload image” when selecting the scan source in the eSIM settings. You can also use third-party applications to read QR, copy the text string (if it is under the code) and paste it manually into the “Enter activation code” field.
Setting up the Internet and switching between SIM cards
After installing the eSIM profile MTS Internet access (APN) settings are usually applied automatically. However, in rare cases, especially on custom firmware or specific smartphone models, manual configuration of the access point may be required. This is necessary if the 4G/LTE icon appears, but the sites do not load.
For manual setup, go to Settings → Mobile network → Access points (APN). Create a new access point with the following parameters: Name - MTS Internet, APN — internet.mts.ru. The username and password must also be equal mts. The remaining fields can be left as default.
An important advantage of eSIM is the ability to flexibly manage two or more numbers. In settings SIM Card Manager you can designate which SIM card is used for mobile data by default, and which one is used only for voice calls. You can also set up a question for each call from which line to make the call.
- 🌐 For the Internet: select MTS eSIM as the main data line.
- 📞 For calls: set the priority or use the “Always ask” mode.
- 💬 For SMS: indicate the number to which messages from banks and services will be sent.
- 🔄 You can switch profiles in the notification curtain (on some models) or in quick settings.
⚠️ Attention: The terms of tariff plans and the cost of communication services can be changed unilaterally by the operator. Always check the latest information about prices for eSIM connection and the conditions of your tariff in the official My MTS application or on the operator’s website before taking action.
Automatic APN configuration occurs in 95% of cases, but manually checking the parameters of the access point (internet.mts.ru) is a guarantee of stable mobile data immediately after activation.
Possible problems and ways to solve them
Despite the mature technology, users may encounter difficulties when connecting or using eSIM MTS on Android. The most common problem is an error when scanning a QR code with the message “Cannot add a tariff plan” or “Profile already exists.”
This error often occurs if you are trying to install a profile that has already been activated on another device or previously on the same phone. The eSIM profile is tied to a specific device EID. To solve the problem, you need to contact MTS support to cancel the old profile and issue a new QR code.
Another common situation is the lack of network after rebooting the phone. In this case, check whether the profile is disabled in the settings. Also make sure that in the section Settings → Security → Encryption and credentials there are no restrictions on the use of security certificates that can block the operation of the virtual SIM card.
If the phone says “No service” or “Emergency calls only,” try manually selecting the operator’s network. Go to Settings → Mobile network → Network operators, disable automatic selection and wait for the list to appear. Select MTS RUS or 250 01. If this does not help, reset your network settings, but remember that this will delete saved Wi-Fi passwords.
How to delete an eSIM profile?
If you want to completely remove the virtual SIM card from the phone's memory, go to the “SIM Card Manager”, click on the desired MTS profile and select “Delete tariff plan”. Please note that after deletion, it will be impossible to restore the profile without a new QR code from the operator.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Can I transfer an existing MTS number to eSIM for free?
Yes, transferring a number from a physical SIM card to an eSIM is free for existing MTS subscribers. The SIM card replacement service is not charged, but you need to personally visit the sales office with a passport to confirm your identity, or use the function in the application if it is available for your profile.
Does MTS eSIM work in roaming abroad?
Yes, the MTS virtual SIM card works in international roaming in the same way as a regular one plastic card. Tariff conditions depend on your connected tariff plan and country of residence. Before traveling, it is recommended to check the roaming settings in your personal account and make sure that the “Gudok” service or other subscriptions work correctly abroad.
What will happen to the eSIM when you reset the phone to factory settings?
When performing a hard reset, all data, including eSIM profiles, are deleted from the device’s memory. After turning on the phone, you will have to scan the QR code again to activate the SIM card. If the QR code was a one-time use and has already been used, you will need to request a new one from the operator.
Is it possible to use an eSIM and a physical SIM card at the same time?
Yes, most modern smartphones with eSIM support allow you to use one virtual SIM card and one physical nano-SIM simultaneously in Dual SIM Standby mode. You will be able to receive calls to both numbers, but you will only be able to have a conversation on one line at a particular time.
Is it safe to store passport data in the application for issuing an eSIM?
Issuing an eSIM requires personal identification in accordance with the legislation of the Russian Federation. Data transfer through the official My MTS application or the operator’s website is protected by encryption protocols. This is a safe method, equivalent to providing a passport in a communication store, since the operator is responsible for protecting the personal data of subscribers.