If your phone can't scan the eSIM QR code, don't worry — there's always a manual alternative. Here's how to get past it.
Common scan problems
- The QR code is too small or blurry on the screen
- Your phone camera struggles to focus
- The QR code is damaged or partially cropped
- You're trying to scan a screenshot from the same phone (impossible)
Quick fixes for scanning
View the QR code on a different device
If you're trying to scan from the same phone you're installing on, that's the problem. Use your laptop, tablet, or another phone to display the QR code. Open your tukango email or dashboard on that device.
Increase brightness
Turn the brightness on the device displaying the QR code all the way up. A dim screen is harder for cameras to read.
Print it out
If you have a printer, print the QR code at full size on white paper. Most camera apps detect printed codes more reliably than screen ones.
Move closer or farther
Hold the camera 10-30 cm from the QR code. Some phones focus better at specific distances.
Manual entry as alternative
Every tukango eSIM can also be installed by typing the activation details manually. You'll find them in your confirmation email under "Manual installation" or "Alternative method."
You'll need three things:
- SM-DP+ Address — looks like
smdp.io.idemia.io - Activation Code — a long alphanumeric string
- Confirmation Code — usually blank for tukango
Manual entry on iPhone
- Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM
- Tap Enter Details Manually at the bottom
- Enter the SM-DP+ Address
- Enter the Activation Code
- Leave Confirmation Code blank
- Tap Next and confirm
Manual entry on Samsung
- Settings → Connections → SIM card manager → Add eSIM
- Tap Enter activation code or Enter manually
- Type the SM-DP+ address followed by the activation code (your phone may ask for them in one combined field as
LPA:1$smdp.io.idemia.io$activationcode) - Confirm
Manual entry on Google Pixel
- Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → + Add SIM → Download a SIM instead?
- Tap Need help? at the bottom
- Choose Enter it manually
- Enter the SM-DP+ address and activation code
Troubleshooting
Double-check the activation code — letters and numbers can look similar (1 vs l, 0 vs O). Copy it exactly. If you copied from the email, watch out for extra spaces.
You need WiFi for manual installation. Make sure your phone is connected to a stable network and try again.
Each activation code can be used once. If you previously installed and removed the eSIM, generate a new code from your tukango dashboard or contact support.
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