Does the Sony Xperia Ace Iii support eSIM?
Yes, the Sony Xperia Ace Iii supports eSIM, but only in models sold through NTT docomo in Japan. If you purchased your device from this carrier, you can use eSIM alongside the physical nano-SIM slot for dual-SIM functionality.
Sony Xperia Ace Iii eSIM compatibility
The Sony Xperia Ace Iii launched as a Japan-exclusive device through docomo, and the carrier-branded version includes eSIM capability. The configuration is eSIM plus one physical nano-SIM slot, letting you run two active lines at once—useful if you want to keep your primary number for calls and texts while adding a data-only travel eSIM.
If you bought your Sony Xperia Ace Iii outside Japan or from a different carrier, eSIM support is unlikely. Sony has historically offered eSIM only in select markets and carrier partnerships, so confirm your device's exact model number and region in Settings > About phone if you're unsure. The docomo variant is the verified eSIM-compatible version.
eSIM and physical SIM configuration
You'll use one eSIM profile and one physical SIM card simultaneously. Both lines can be active for calls, but only one handles cellular data at a time—you choose which in your network settings. This dual-SIM setup means you don't need to swap physical cards when traveling or managing work and personal numbers.
How to set up an eSIM on the Sony Xperia Ace Iii
Setting up an eSIM on your Sony Xperia Ace Iii takes about a minute once you have your QR code from your carrier or eSIM provider. Make sure you're connected to Wi-Fi before you begin, because the activation requires an internet connection to download the eSIM profile.
Step-by-step eSIM installation
- Open Settings on your Sony Xperia Ace Iii.
- Tap Network & internet, then Mobile network.
- Select Advanced or look for an option labeled Add carrier or Add mobile plan.
- Tap Download a SIM instead? or the equivalent prompt to add an eSIM.
- Scan the QR code provided by your eSIM provider using your device's camera.
- Confirm the download and wait about 60 seconds for the profile to install.
- Label your new eSIM line (for example, "Travel" or "Data") so you can easily identify it.
- Choose which SIM handles mobile data in Mobile network settings—your new eSIM or your existing physical SIM.
Activating and managing your eSIM profile
After installation, toggle the eSIM on in your Mobile network menu. You can switch which line uses cellular data anytime, and both lines remain active for voice and SMS unless you manually turn one off. If you need to remove the eSIM later, return to Mobile network settings, tap the eSIM profile, and select Erase or Delete.
Using a travel eSIM on the Sony Xperia Ace Iii
A travel eSIM is the easiest way to get mobile data abroad without roaming fees from your home carrier. You install the eSIM before your flight, and as soon as you land, your Sony Xperia Ace Iii connects to a local network. Your physical SIM stays in place for calls and text messages, so you keep your usual number for two-factor authentication and contacts.
Install your travel eSIM before departure
Purchase your travel eSIM plan while you're still at home and have Wi-Fi. Follow the setup steps above to install the profile, but don't enable it until you arrive at your destination. Most travel eSIM plans activate based on first use, so turning on the eSIM line early can waste days of your coverage window. Label it clearly—something like "Europe data"—so you remember to switch your data setting when you land.
You can browse eSIM plans for the countries you're visiting, compare data allowances, and buy a plan that covers your trip length. Regional eSIMs work across multiple countries if you're touring several destinations, and the setup is identical no matter which plan you choose.
Tips & troubleshooting
Most eSIM activations on the Sony Xperia Ace Iii go smoothly, but a few common issues trip up first-time users. Here's how to avoid them and what to do if something doesn't work as expected.
Turn on data roaming for your eSIM line
Your travel eSIM won't connect to a network abroad unless data roaming is enabled for that specific line. Go to Settings > Network & internet > Mobile network, tap your eSIM profile, and toggle Roaming on. This isn't the same as your home carrier's expensive roaming—you're using the local network included in your eSIM plan. Leave roaming off for your physical SIM to prevent surprise charges from your regular carrier.
Keep your home SIM active for calls and texts
Set your eSIM as the data line and leave your physical SIM active for voice and SMS. This way, you receive two-factor authentication codes and calls to your usual number while your eSIM handles all internet traffic. You configure this in the Mobile network menu under "Preferred SIM for mobile data."
Fix an eSIM that won't activate
If the QR code won't scan, check that your camera lens is clean and the code is displayed at full brightness. You can also enter the activation details manually: tap Enter it manually during setup and type the SM-DP+ address and activation code from your eSIM provider. Restart your Sony Xperia Ace Iii if the profile installs but won't connect, then confirm the eSIM is toggled on and set as your data line. If problems persist, eSIM setup help is available, or contact your eSIM provider's support team with your device model and error messages.
If you're testing compatibility on a different device, you can check another device's eSIM compatibility to confirm before purchasing a plan.


