How to get a GCI eSIM
Residential customers
- Online: Choose a GCI unlimited mobile plan and check out online. A GCI representative will contact you to complete your order, and we'll email you a GCI eSIM to activate on your iPhone.
- On the phone: Call 800-800-4800.
- In person: Visit a GCI store.
Business customers
Call the support team at 800-800-7754.
How to activate your eSIM
Connect your iPhone to WiFi or another cellular-connected device's hotspot. You'll see a pop-up notification that says "Finish Cellular Setup."
Tap the pop-up to begin the activation process, then follow the prompts.
If you did not get the pop-up or accidentally dismissed the notification, follow these steps to complete the activation process.
Open Settings > Cellular and tap "Set Up Cellular."
When prompted, select "Set Up eSIM." It may take up to five minutes for the eSIM to install.
You'll see a confirmation message when your eSIM is installed.
QR code activation
Connect your iPhone to WiFi or another cellular-connected device's hotspot.
Open the Camera app.
Point the camera at the QR code to scan it.
Click Continue on the Install Cellular Plan screen.
Click Add Cellular Plan on the Add Cellular Plan screen.
From the home screen, tap Settings.
Tap Cellular.
The cellular plan will show with a status of "Activating."
After a few moments, after the activation has completed, the status will show as "On."
Your settings will now show GCI as your active carrier.
FAQs
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM is a digital SIM that eliminates the need for a physical SIM card. With an eSIM, you can quickly and easily transfer an existing cellular plan or get a new cellular plan, all digitally. You can even store multiple eSIMs on the same device and use two phone numbers at the same time. And i'ts more secure — someone can't remove the physical SIM card if your iPhone is lost or stolen. In just a few simple steps, you are ready to make calls, send messages, and browse the web.
Which iPhone models support eSIM?
iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR or later support eSIM. If you have iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Pro, or anything later like iPhone 15 Pro Max, your device does not have a physical SIM tray and will only activate with an eSIM.
How do I get a GCI eSIM for iPhone?
GCI supports eSIM Carrier Activation, where GCI assigns you an eSIM to your iPhone digitally at the time of purchase. If you choose a GCI mobile plan and check out online, a GCI rep will contact you to complete your order, and we'll email you a GCI eSIM to activate on your iPhone. You can also call us or visit a GCI store.
Learn more about eSIM on iPhone.
How do I move my number from my Android device to an eSIM on iPhone?
If you're switching to iPhone, simply choose your desired iPhone model and check out online. A GCI rep will contact you to complete your order, and we'll email you a GCI eSIM to activate on your iPhone. Be sure to check out our offers for the latest deals on iPhone.
Are all GCI customers able to use an eSIM on iPhone?
Yes, prepaid customers can now also use eSIM-capable devices.
How do I get a GCI eSIM if I'm not purchasing my iPhone from GCI?
GCI supports eSIM Carrier Activation, where GCI assigns you an eSIM to your iPhone digitally. Call us at 800-800-4800 and we'll email you a GCI eSIM to activate on your iPhone. You can also visit a GCI store.
How do I know if my iPhone is unlocked?
Go to Settings > General > About
Under Carrier Lock, you should see a message that says "No SIM restrictions." If you don't see that message, contact your cell carrier.
Will activating an eSIM lock my iPhone to GCI?
Your device's lock status is not impacted by the use of an eSIM. See information about GCI's lock policy.
What should I do if my iPhone with an active eSIM is lost or stolen?
If your iPhone with an active eSIM is lost or stolen, contact GCI:
- On the phone: Call 800-800-4800
- In person: Visit a GCI store
What happens to my cellular plan if I erase my eSIM?
If you delete your eSIM, your cellular plan has not been cancelled. To get a new eSIM, contact GCI:
- On the phone: Call 800-800-4800
- In person: Visit a GCI store
Can I use my GCI eSIM while traveling internationally?
Yes, GCI's Apex and Summit Unlimited plans include unlimited calling and 5 GB of data in Canada and Mexico. See our international roaming rates for other countries.
If I'm traveling to the US from abroad, can I download a local eSIM on GCI's network?
Yes, GCI supports eSIM Carrier Activation, where GCI assigns you an eSIM to your iPhone digitally at the time of purchase or your request. If you choose a GCI mobile plan and check out online, a GCI rep will contact you to complete your order, and we'll email you a GCI eSIM to activate on your iPhone. You can also call us.
What is dual SIM?
Dual SIM allows users to use two phone numbers at the same time. For example, you can use one number for business and another number for personal. Or you can add a local data plan when you travel outside the country or region. Get more information about dual SIM with eSIMs.