Japan eSIM Compatible with Android and Samsung: Complete Guide 2026
Most Samsung Galaxy S21, S22, S23, S24, and S25 models support eSIM in Japan — as do the Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip foldables, and all Google Pixel 3 and later devices. To confirm your phone's compatibility, go to Settings > About phone: if a 32-digit EID number appears, your Android is ready to go. Setting up a PlanJapan eSIM takes under 5 minutes — no physical SIM, no carrier unlock needed in most cases.
Samsung Galaxy: Which Models Support eSIM
Samsung made eSIM standard across its lineup starting with the Galaxy S21 series (2021). Here are the Samsung devices compatible with a Japan eSIM:
Galaxy S Series (Flagship)
| Model | Year | eSIM Compatible |
|---|---|---|
| Galaxy S20 / S20+ / S20 Ultra | 2020 | Depends on variant (not all markets) |
| Galaxy S21 / S21+ / S21 Ultra | 2021 | Yes (except Korean models) |
| Galaxy S22 / S22+ / S22 Ultra | 2022 | Yes (except Korean models) |
| Galaxy S23 / S23+ / S23 Ultra | 2023 | Yes (except Korean models) |
| Galaxy S24 / S24+ / S24 Ultra | 2024 | Yes (except Korean models) |
| Galaxy S25 / S25+ / S25 Ultra | 2025 | Yes (except Korean models) |
| Galaxy S26 / S26+ / S26 Ultra | 2026 | Yes (except Korean models) |
Galaxy Z Series (Foldables)
| Model | Year | eSIM Compatible |
|---|---|---|
| Galaxy Z Fold 2 | 2020 | Yes |
| Galaxy Z Fold 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 | 2021–2024 | Yes |
| Galaxy Z Flip 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 | 2021–2024 | Yes |
| Galaxy Z Fold 7 | 2025 | Yes |
| Galaxy Z Flip 7 | 2025 | Yes |
Galaxy A Series (Mid-Range)
| Model | Year | eSIM Compatible |
|---|---|---|
| Galaxy A53 5G | 2022 | Yes (select regions) |
| Galaxy A54 5G | 2023 | Yes (select regions) |
| Galaxy A55 5G | 2024 | Yes (select regions) |
| Galaxy A56 5G | 2025 | Yes (select regions) |
Watch out for Korean variants: Samsung phones sold in South Korea (model numbers ending in N, e.g. SM-S921N) typically don't include an eSIM chip due to local regulations. If your phone was bought in Korea, check for an EID before your trip.
Other Android Brands Compatible with Japan eSIM
Samsung isn't the only Android brand with eSIM support. Here are other devices that work with a PlanJapan eSIM:
Google Pixel
Google was among the first Android manufacturers to support eSIM. Starting with the Pixel 3 (2018), all models are compatible:
- Google Pixel 3 / 3a / 4 / 4a
- Google Pixel 5 / 5a / 6 / 6a / 6 Pro
- Google Pixel 7 / 7a / 7 Pro
- Google Pixel 8 / 8a / 8 Pro
- Google Pixel 9 / 9 Pro / 9 Pro XL / 9 Pro Fold
- Google Pixel 9a (2025)
Motorola
- Motorola Razr 5G (2020) and later
- Motorola Edge 30 Fusion and later (select markets)
- Motorola Edge 40 Pro and later
OnePlus
- OnePlus 11 (2023) and later
- OnePlus 12, OnePlus 12R
- OnePlus 13 (2025)
Xiaomi and Huawei
Xiaomi offers eSIM on select flagship models (Xiaomi 12T Pro, Xiaomi 13 and 14 Series), but availability varies significantly by region. Huawei devices released after 2020 may include eSIM hardware, but software restrictions can make activation with foreign carriers difficult. When in doubt, check for an EID in your phone settings.
How to Check if Your Android Supports eSIM
The fastest way: use our eSIM compatibility checker — enter your phone model and get an instant answer.
You can also check manually by looking for the EID (Embedded Identity Document) — the 32-digit identifier for the embedded eSIM chip in your device.
Method 1: Through Settings (Samsung)
- Open Settings
- Tap About phone
- Tap Status information
- Scroll to find EID number
If a 32-digit number appears, your phone supports eSIM.
Method 2: Through Network Settings
- Open Settings
- Tap Connections (or Network & Internet)
- Tap SIM card manager
- Look for the option Add eSIM
If that option exists, your device supports eSIM.
Method 3: Quick Dial Code
Dial *#06# on your phone. If an EID appears below the IMEI number, you're good to go.
How to Install Your PlanJapan eSIM on a Samsung Galaxy (Step by Step)
After purchasing your PlanJapan eSIM, you'll receive an email with a QR code. Here's how to install it on your Samsung:
- Open Settings on your Samsung Galaxy
- Tap Connections
- Select SIM card manager
- Tap Add eSIM
- Choose Scan QR code
- Scan the QR code from your PlanJapan email
- Name your eSIM (e.g. "Japan") and confirm
- Choose when to activate it
Pro tip: If your plan starts counting from activation (not first use), wait until you land in Japan before switching to PlanJapan. Keep your home SIM active during the flight for any last-minute messages.
Installing on Google Pixel
- Settings > Network & Internet
- Tap SIMs
- Tap + to add an eSIM
- Choose Scan QR code
- Scan the PlanJapan QR code and confirm
When eSIM Doesn't Work: Common Issues
A few situations can block eSIM installation even on a compatible device:
- Carrier-locked device: Some phones purchased through a carrier (e.g. AT&T, T-Mobile, or European operators) may have eSIM functionality locked even if the hardware supports it. Contact your carrier to unlock it before your trip — it's usually free once your contract is up.
- Korean Samsung variant: SM-GXXXN models sold in South Korea don't include an eSIM chip. This is a hardware difference — no software update can fix it.
- Outdated Android version: eSIM requires Android 10 or later to work properly on most devices. A system update may resolve the issue if you're running an older version.
Which Japan eSIM Plan Should You Choose?
Your Android device is compatible — now pick the right plan for your trip:
| Plan | Best for | Trip length |
|---|---|---|
| 10 GB | Light usage: Maps, transit apps, occasional searches. No heavy social media. | 1 week or less |
| 20 GB | Moderate usage: Instagram, Maps, everyday apps. No streaming. | 10–12 days |
| 50 GB | Heavy usage: YouTube, continuous social media, sharing your connection with another device. | 2 weeks or more |
| Unlimited | Zero restrictions: stream, hotspot, work remotely without ever checking your data. | Any duration |
For most travelers heading to Japan for two weeks, the 50 GB plan is our top recommendation. It comfortably covers Google Maps, Spotify, Instagram, and video calls without needing to monitor your usage. If you plan to share your connection with a laptop or tablet, go straight for the unlimited plan.
View the 50 GB eSIM plan
View the unlimited plan
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Samsung Galaxy A52 compatible with a Japan eSIM?
No, the Galaxy A52 (2021) doesn't support eSIM. The A53 5G, A54 5G, and A55 5G do — but not the non-5G versions in the A series. To confirm, check Settings > About phone for an EID number.
Can I use my home SIM and the Japan eSIM at the same time?
Yes — Samsung Galaxy S21 and later support dual SIM (physical SIM + eSIM simultaneously). You can keep your home SIM for calls and texts while using PlanJapan for data. Just set PlanJapan as the preferred data SIM under Settings > Connections > SIM card manager.
Is the Korean version of the Samsung S23 eSIM-compatible?
No. Samsung phones made for the Korean market (model reference SM-S9XXN) don't have an eSIM chip. This is a hardware limitation — it can't be fixed with a software update. If you bought your phone in South Korea, you'll need a physical SIM card in Japan.
Does PlanJapan eSIM work on a Google Pixel 7?
Yes, the Google Pixel 7 is fully eSIM-compatible. Installation takes just a few minutes: Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > Add eSIM, then scan the QR code from your PlanJapan purchase confirmation email.
How do I share my Japan eSIM connection from my Samsung?
Enable hotspot from Settings > Connections > Mobile Hotspot and Tethering > Mobile Hotspot. If you plan to tether regularly, the 50 GB or unlimited plan is strongly recommended — hotspot usage burns through data significantly faster than regular browsing.
Our Recommendation
If you own a Samsung Galaxy S21 or later (or a recent Z Fold / Z Flip model), your phone is Japan eSIM-ready with no extra steps needed. The check takes 30 seconds: look for an EID under Settings > About phone.
For most travelers, the 50 GB plan is the sweet spot — enough for everything without overthinking it. And if you want absolute peace of mind, the unlimited plan has you covered no matter how much you stream, share, or work remotely.