QR code won't scan — what to try

When the QR scan fails, it's usually one of these reasons.

Why scans fail

• The QR is on the same screen you're trying to scan from. iOS and Android can't both display and scan a QR.
• Screen brightness is too low.
• Glass screen protector creates reflection.
• Camera focal range can't focus on a QR closer than ~10cm.

Display the QR on a second device

• Open your order confirmation email (or order page) on a laptop, tablet, or a friend's phone.
• Use your install phone to scan it.

Save the QR as an image and import it

• iPhone: long-press the QR image in the email → "Save to Photos". Then Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → "Use QR Code" → tap the photo icon → choose the saved QR.
• Android: similar with "Save image" → Settings → SIMs → Add eSIM → "Use QR code" → "From photo" or equivalent.

Type the activation code manually (most reliable)

• Open the activation email. Below the QR is a section labelled "Manual activation".
• SM-DP+ Address: smdp.io (or the URL we list)
• Activation Code: the long alphanumeric string after the $ in the LPA link
• Confirmation Code: blank unless we said otherwise
• Enter both on your phone (Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM → Use QR Code → "Enter details manually" on iOS, or equivalent on Android).

Request a fresh QR

• My account → My eSIMs → tap the eSIM → "Resend activation email".
• The QR is re-generated with the same underlying profile, so it's not a new charge.

What not to try

• Don't scan the QR multiple times — iOS stops accepting the same QR after 3 attempts and you have to remove the half-installed profile.
• Don't take a photo of someone else's QR — every QR is single-use, tied to that customer's order.