Canary Islands eSIM for Android: Installation, Setup and Mobile Data Guide

An eSIM is one of the most convenient ways to get mobile data on an Android phone in the Canary Islands. You can install the plan digitally before departure, keep your regular SIM card inside the device and connect after arriving in Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura or another supported island.

A Canary Islands travel eSIM is useful for airport transfers, navigation, ferry tickets, accommodation messages, restaurant searches and communication through WhatsApp. It removes the need to find a local mobile shop or replace your physical SIM card after landing.

Android menus vary between Samsung, Google Pixel, Motorola, Xiaomi and other manufacturers. The wording may be different, but the essential setup is the same: install the eSIM, enable it, select it for mobile data, turn on Data Roaming and disable automatic switching to your primary SIM.

Quick answer: Install your Canary Islands eSIM on stable WiFi before travelling. After arrival, enable the travel line, select it as the preferred SIM for mobile data, turn on Data Roaming and disable automatic mobile data switching. If the phone connects to a network but internet does not work, set the APN to data.esim.

Does Your Android Phone Support eSIM?

Many recent Android phones support eSIM, but compatibility depends on the exact model, regional version, software and mobile operator restrictions.

eSIM support is commonly available on selected models from:

• Samsung Galaxy S, Z Fold and Z Flip series.
• Google Pixel phones.
• Motorola Razr and selected Edge models.
• Selected Xiaomi, Redmi and Poco devices.
• Selected Honor and Huawei devices.
• Other recent premium Android phones.

Do not rely only on the commercial model name. The same Android phone can have different eSIM capabilities depending on the country where it was purchased.

How to Check eSIM Compatibility on Android

The simplest method is to look for an option to add an eSIM in the device settings.

Depending on the phone, open one of the following menus:

• Settings → Connections → SIM Manager.
• Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs.
• Settings → Mobile Network → SIM Management.
• Settings → Cellular Network → eSIM.

Look for an option such as:

• Add eSIM.
• Add Mobile Plan.
• Download a SIM Instead.
• Add SIM.
• Set Up an eSIM.

You can also dial:

*#06#

If the device displays an EID in addition to one or more IMEI numbers, this usually indicates that the phone supports eSIM.

Check Whether the Android Phone Is Unlocked

An eSIM-compatible phone may still reject a travel plan when it is locked to the original mobile operator.

Carrier-lock information is not always displayed clearly on Android. You can check by:

• Looking for a network-lock status in the phone settings.
• Contacting the operator that sold the device.
• Testing the phone with a SIM from another operator.
• Reviewing the original purchase agreement.

If the phone accepts only SIM cards from one operator, request an unlock before travelling.

Why Use an Android eSIM in the Canary Islands?

A travel eSIM gives Android users a flexible way to connect without removing the primary SIM card.

• Install mobile data before departure.
• Connect shortly after landing.
• Keep your usual number active.
• Continue receiving SMS verification codes.
• Use WhatsApp with the same registered number.
• Avoid searching for a local SIM shop.
• Use one compatible plan across included islands.
• Switch between SIM profiles through Android settings.

NoveSIM travel plans are data-only and do not normally include a local telephone number, traditional voice minutes or SMS.

When Should You Install the eSIM?

Install the eSIM before travelling while connected to stable private WiFi. This gives you time to complete the download and check that the profile appears correctly in your SIM settings.

Before installing, review the activation rules. Some plans begin when the eSIM first connects to a supported network, while others may start after installation or on a selected date.

Avoid activating the travel line too early when the plan validity starts immediately.

How to Install a Canary Islands eSIM on Samsung

Menu names can vary slightly depending on the Galaxy model and Android version.

1. Connect the phone to stable WiFi.
2. Open Settings.
3. Select Connections.
4. Select SIM Manager.
5. Select Add eSIM.
6. Choose Scan QR Code.
7. Scan the QR code supplied after purchase.
8. Follow the installation prompts.
9. Label the new line as NoveSIM, Travel or Canary Islands.

Keep the eSIM installed until your trip is complete.

How to Install a Canary Islands eSIM on Google Pixel

1. Connect to stable WiFi.
2. Open Settings.
3. Select Network & Internet.
4. Select SIMs.
5. Select Add SIM.
6. Choose Set Up an eSIM or Download a SIM Instead.
7. Scan the supplied QR code.
8. Complete the installation prompts.
9. Give the plan a clear label.

The wording may differ on older Pixel software versions, but the eSIM option remains inside the mobile network or SIM settings.

How to Install an eSIM on Other Android Phones

On Motorola, Xiaomi, Honor and other compatible Android devices, the menu may be located under Mobile Network, SIM Management or Cellular Network.

1. Open Settings.
2. Find the mobile network or SIM management menu.
3. Select the option to add an eSIM or mobile plan.
4. Choose QR code installation.
5. Scan the supplied QR code.
6. Confirm the plan download.
7. Label the eSIM clearly.

Use the search field inside Settings and search for eSIM, SIM Manager or Add SIM when you cannot find the menu.

How to Install the eSIM Manually

If QR code installation is unavailable and manual details have been supplied, your Android phone may allow you to enter them directly.

1. Open the option to add an eSIM.
2. Select manual installation or enter activation code.
3. Enter the SM-DP+ address exactly as provided.
4. Enter the activation code.
5. Confirm the download.
6. Wait for the eSIM profile to appear.

Do not add spaces, punctuation or extra characters to the installation details.

Recommended Android Settings After Installation

Android Setting	Recommended Configuration
Travel eSIM	Enabled after arrival
Preferred SIM for mobile data	NoveSIM or Travel
Data Roaming on travel eSIM	Enabled
Automatic Data Switching	Disabled
Main SIM Data Roaming	Disabled unless intentionally used
APN	data.esim

How to Select the eSIM for Mobile Data

Installing an eSIM does not always make it the active internet line automatically.

On Samsung:

1. Open Settings.
2. Select Connections.
3. Select SIM Manager.
4. Under Preferred SIMs, select Mobile Data.
5. Choose the travel eSIM.

On Google Pixel:

1. Open Settings.
2. Select Network & Internet.
3. Select SIMs.
4. Choose the travel eSIM.
5. Enable Mobile Data.
6. Set it as the preferred data SIM if prompted.

How to Enable Data Roaming on Android

Travel eSIMs normally connect through partner mobile networks, so Data Roaming must usually be enabled on the eSIM line.

On Samsung:

1. Open Settings.
2. Select Connections.
3. Select Mobile Networks.
4. Enable Data Roaming for the travel eSIM.

On Google Pixel:

1. Open Settings.
2. Select Network & Internet.
3. Select SIMs.
4. Select the travel eSIM.
5. Enable Roaming.

Keep roaming disabled on the primary SIM unless you intentionally want to use your home operator’s roaming services.

Disable Automatic Mobile Data Switching

Some Android phones can switch mobile data to another SIM when the selected line appears weak. This could cause unexpected roaming charges through your primary operator.

Look for and disable settings such as:

• Data Switching.
• Auto Data Switching.
• Switch Mobile Data Automatically.
• Backup Calling.
• Use Mobile Data During Calls.
• Automatic Data SIM Switching.

The exact wording depends on the phone manufacturer and Android version.

How to Set the APN on Android

If the eSIM connects to a network but mobile internet does not work, check the Access Point Name.

On Samsung:

1. Open Settings.
2. Select Connections.
3. Select Mobile Networks.
4. Select Access Point Names.
5. Select the travel eSIM if requested.
6. Create or edit an APN.
7. Enter data.esim.
8. Save and select the APN.

On Google Pixel and similar Android phones:

1. Open Settings.
2. Select Network & Internet.
3. Select SIMs.
4. Select the travel eSIM.
5. Select Access Point Names.
6. Add a new APN.
7. Enter data.esim.
8. Save and select it.

APN Field	Value
Name	NoveSIM
APN	data.esim
Username	Leave blank
Password	Leave blank
Authentication Type	None or default

Leave all other fields unchanged unless different values are specifically provided.

Can You Keep Your Main SIM Active?

Yes. Most dual-SIM Android phones allow the primary SIM to remain active while the travel eSIM provides mobile data.

This setup can allow you to:

• Keep your usual telephone number.
• Receive SMS verification codes.
• Receive calls on the main SIM.
• Continue using WhatsApp with the same number.
• Use NoveSIM for mobile internet.

Your home operator may charge for calls, SMS or roaming activity. Review its roaming prices and disable data roaming on the primary SIM.

Will WhatsApp Keep Your Original Number?

Yes. Installing an eSIM does not normally change the number registered with WhatsApp.

If WhatsApp asks whether you want to change your number, keep the current number unless you intentionally want to update the account.

Messages, internet calls and media will use mobile data from the selected travel eSIM.

Canary Islands eSIM Coverage on Android

A compatible Canary Islands or Spain data plan can generally work across the destinations included in its coverage, including:

• Tenerife.
• Gran Canaria.
• Lanzarote.
• Fuerteventura.
• La Palma.
• La Gomera.
• El Hierro.

Coverage is normally strongest in cities, resorts, airports, ports and along main roads. Signal may be weaker in volcanic parks, mountain areas, ravines, remote beaches and isolated inland locations.

Can One Android eSIM Work While Island Hopping?

Yes. When the plan includes the Canary Islands, the same eSIM can usually remain installed while you travel between islands by ferry or domestic flight.

The original validity period and data allowance continue to apply. You do not normally need a separate installation for every island.

Mobile signal may disappear temporarily when a ferry travels far from the coastline.

How Much Data Do Android Users Need?

Trip Length	Suggested Data	Typical Use
Weekend	1GB–3GB	Maps, messaging and basic browsing
One week	3GB–5GB	Daily navigation, bookings and social media
Two weeks	5GB–10GB	Regular mobile use and media uploads
One month	10GB–20GB	Daily travel use and occasional calls
Remote work	20GB or more	Hotspot, meetings and cloud applications

Google Photos backups, Play Store updates, video streaming and hotspot use can consume data much faster than maps or messaging.

How to Reduce Data Usage on Android

• Enable Data Saver.
• Disable automatic Play Store updates.
• Pause Google Photos backup over mobile data.
• Download offline maps through WiFi.
• Use accommodation WiFi for streaming.
• Restrict background data for unnecessary apps.
• Reduce video quality in social applications.
• Download music before travelling.
• Monitor usage in the Mobile Data settings.

How to Enable Data Saver

On Samsung:

1. Open Settings.
2. Select Connections.
3. Select Data Usage.
4. Select Data Saver.
5. Enable it.

On Google Pixel:

1. Open Settings.
2. Select Network & Internet.
3. Select Data Saver.
4. Enable Use Data Saver.

You can allow essential apps to use unrestricted data when necessary.

Can You Use Mobile Hotspot with the eSIM?

Many Android phones can share an eSIM connection through WiFi hotspot or tethering, provided the selected data plan allows it.

On Samsung:

1. Confirm that the travel eSIM is selected for mobile data.
2. Open Settings.
3. Select Connections.
4. Select Mobile Hotspot and Tethering.
5. Enable Mobile Hotspot.

On Google Pixel:

1. Open Settings.
2. Select Network & Internet.
3. Select Hotspot & Tethering.
4. Select WiFi Hotspot.
5. Enable the hotspot.

Laptop updates, cloud synchronization and video meetings can consume a large part of your allowance quickly.

What to Do If the eSIM Is Installed but Shows No Service

1. Confirm that you have arrived in the Canary Islands.
2. Open the SIM settings and enable the travel eSIM.
3. Select it as the preferred SIM for mobile data.
4. Enable Data Roaming on the eSIM.
5. Disable automatic data switching.
6. Turn Airplane Mode on for approximately 30 seconds.
7. Turn Airplane Mode off and wait for registration.
8. Restart the phone.
9. Move outdoors or toward a populated area.

Initial network registration may take several minutes after landing.

What to Do If Android Shows Signal but No Internet

If the phone displays signal bars or a network name but websites do not load:

1. Confirm that the eSIM is selected for mobile data.
2. Check that Data Roaming is enabled.
3. Open the APN settings.
4. Set the APN to data.esim.
5. Save and select the new APN.
6. Turn off WiFi temporarily.
7. Activate Airplane Mode for 30 seconds.
8. Restart the phone.
9. Test the connection again.

A visible mobile network does not always mean that the correct data profile is active.

What to Do If the eSIM Is Slow

Mobile speed depends on network congestion, coverage, terrain, phone capabilities and the conditions of the selected plan.

• Move outdoors or closer to a populated area.
• Turn Airplane Mode on and off.
• Restart the phone.
• Pause app updates and cloud backups.
• Disconnect unused hotspot devices.
• Check whether a daily high-speed allowance has been reached.
• Try the connection again after moving to a different location.

Remote volcanic landscapes, mountain roads, ferry routes and isolated beaches may have weaker or less consistent coverage.

Manual Network Selection on Android

Automatic network selection is normally recommended. If the phone does not register after the standard troubleshooting steps, you may try selecting a supported network manually.

1. Open the travel eSIM settings.
2. Find Network Operators or Automatically Select Network.
3. Turn off automatic selection.
4. Wait for available networks to appear.
5. Select a supported network.
6. Wait for registration.

Return to automatic selection if the manual network does not work or when travelling to another island.

Do Not Delete the eSIM While Troubleshooting

Do not remove the travel eSIM unless support specifically advises you to do so. Some QR codes can only be installed once.

Deleting the profile may prevent reinstallation and could require replacement activation details.

Most Android connection issues can be resolved by correcting the preferred data SIM, roaming setting, APN or network registration.

Can You Install the Same eSIM on Two Android Phones?

Usually not. Most travel eSIM profiles are intended for one installation on one compatible device.

Do not scan the QR code on another phone after it has already been installed. Each device should use a separate plan unless the product information explicitly states otherwise.

Can You Transfer the eSIM to Another Android Phone?

Travel eSIM transfer is not always supported. Built-in Android transfer options may work for selected domestic operator plans but not for temporary travel profiles.

Install the eSIM on the phone you intend to use during the trip. Contact support before resetting, replacing or changing the device.

Should You Turn Off the Main SIM?

You do not normally need to disable the primary SIM completely. Keeping it active can be useful for calls and SMS verification.

To reduce the risk of roaming charges:

• Select the eSIM for mobile data.
• Disable Data Roaming on the primary SIM.
• Disable automatic data switching.
• Avoid chargeable calls unless necessary.
• Review the roaming terms of your home operator.

Android Setup Checklist Before Departure

• Confirm eSIM compatibility.
• Dial *#06# and check for an EID.
• Confirm that the phone is unlocked.
• Purchase the correct Canary Islands plan.
• Review when the plan activates.
• Install the eSIM using stable WiFi.
• Label the line clearly.
• Save the QR code and support details separately.
• Download offline maps.
• Do not delete the installed profile.

Android Setup Checklist After Arrival

• Enable the travel eSIM.
• Select it for mobile data.
• Enable Data Roaming on the eSIM.
• Disable automatic data switching.
• Keep primary SIM roaming disabled.
• Set the APN to data.esim if required.
• Use Airplane Mode for 30 seconds if needed.
• Restart the phone if it does not register.
• Test maps, WhatsApp and web browsing.

Related Articles

• Canary Islands eSIM for iPhone
• Best eSIM for Canary Islands
• Canary Islands Travel Internet Guide
• Mobile Data for Island Hopping Canary Islands
• Monthly Data Plan for Canary Islands

FAQ

Can I use an eSIM on my Android phone in the Canary Islands?

Yes. An unlocked eSIM-compatible Android phone can use a suitable travel data plan in the Canary Islands.

How do I check whether my Android phone supports eSIM?

Search the SIM or mobile network settings for Add eSIM, Add Mobile Plan or Download a SIM Instead. You can also dial *#06# and look for an EID.

Should I install the eSIM before travelling?

Yes. Install it using stable WiFi before departure, but check when the validity period begins before enabling the line.

Do I need to enable Data Roaming?

Yes. Data Roaming normally needs to be enabled on the travel eSIM so it can connect through supported partner networks.

What APN should I use on Android?

Set the APN to data.esim. Leave the username and password blank unless different details are provided.

Can I keep my regular SIM active?

Yes. Most dual-SIM Android phones can keep the primary SIM active for calls and SMS while the eSIM provides mobile data.

Will WhatsApp keep my original number?

Yes. WhatsApp normally remains connected to the existing registered number while using internet through the travel eSIM.

Why is my Android phone using the main SIM for data?

The primary SIM may still be selected as the preferred mobile data line, or automatic data switching may be enabled. Select the travel eSIM and disable automatic switching.

Can I delete and reinstall the eSIM?

Do not delete it unless support specifically advises you to do so. Some travel eSIM QR codes are valid for only one installation.

Can I use mobile hotspot with the eSIM?

Many Android phones support hotspot through an eSIM, but tethering must also be permitted by the selected data plan.

Final Recommendation

A Canary Islands eSIM is a convenient mobile data solution for compatible Android phones. Install it before departure, keep your main SIM active when needed and select the travel profile as the preferred line for mobile data after arrival.

For the correct NoveSIM setup, enable Data Roaming on the eSIM, disable automatic data switching and enter data.esim as the APN when manual configuration is necessary. Keep the eSIM installed throughout the journey and do not delete it while troubleshooting.