Here's the short version: Bloomy provides a one-tap setup link that opens the eSIM setup screen for you. On a supported device, you simply tap the setup link delivered to your account page after purchase, and the "Add eSIM" screen opens automatically—no need to type in long codes by hand. If the link doesn't open or your device doesn't support it, you can register the exact same profile by scanning a QR code or using manual entry (SM-DP+ address). Whichever method you choose, your connection and its quality are the same afterward. This article breaks down the differences between the one-tap link, QR code, and manual entry—how to use each, and what to do when things don't go smoothly—in a way that's easy to follow even if it's your first time.
If you'd like the big picture of setting up an eSIM while traveling first, see our eSIM setup guide for travelers (overview). If you prefer to follow along with the actual screens, our setup page can help.
What Is Bloomy's One-Tap Setup Link? (The Easiest Option)
The one-tap setup link is a link with the information needed to register your eSIM (the server address and activation code) already built in. On a supported device, just tapping the link opens the eSIM setup screen automatically, and you register simply by following the on-screen prompts. There's no need to display a QR code on a separate screen or type in a long code by hand.
The one-tap setup link works on relatively recent smartphones (for iPhone, iOS 17.4 or later is a good guideline). If your device isn't supported, or if tapping the link doesn't open the setup screen, use the QR code or manual entry described below. No matter which entry point you use to register, the contents and connection quality are the same.
The Three Entry Points (One-Tap / QR / Manual Entry) and How They Differ
To use an eSIM, you register your line information—called an "eSIM profile"—on your device. There are three entry points for that registration. What gets registered is identical in each case, so there's no difference in connection quality.
| Method | What it is | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| One-tap setup link | Tapping the link opens the setup screen automatically (almost no typing needed) | When you want the simplest option on a supported device |
| QR code | Scan the issued QR code with your camera | When you can display the QR on a computer, another phone, or on paper |
| Manual entry (SM-DP+) | Type in the SM-DP+ address and activation code as text | When the QR won't scan, or you only have one device |
Which Should You Choose?
If you're using a supported device, start with the one-tap setup link—it's the easiest. If the link won't open or your device isn't supported, displaying the QR code on a separate screen and scanning it is a convenient alternative. If the phone you're setting up is the only device you have on hand, the camera can't read the code well, or the QR is too small or reflective, manual entry comes in handy. You can pick whatever fits your situation—and again, your connection and speed are the same whichever you use.
Things to Check Before You Set Up
Is your device eSIM-compatible?
Your device needs to support eSIM. If you're unsure whether yours is compatible, it's reassuring to check first with how to check if your device supports eSIM. A carrier-locked device may need to be unlocked.
When to set up
For many travel eSIMs, the safest flow is to "install" the profile before you depart while you're on Wi-Fi at home, then "activate" (turn on) the line after you arrive at your destination. That said, the timing of activation and the conditions for starting service vary by plan, so always check the guidance provided before and after purchase.
Confirming it's data-only
Like most travel eSIMs, Bloomy is generally for data only. As a rule, it does not come with a phone number and cannot be used for voice calls or for sending and receiving SMS (text messages). Calls and messages through apps like WhatsApp may still work as long as you have a working data connection. If you need a phone number or SMS-based verification, also look into other options (such as a plan that includes a local number, or keeping your existing line alongside it). If phone numbers and SMS are a concern for you, our articles on phone numbers and SMS are also worth a read.
How to Use the One-Tap Setup Link
- Connect to Wi-Fi.
- Tap the setup link delivered to your account page after purchase.
- The "Add eSIM" screen opens automatically; follow the prompts and continue.
- When the download finishes, select it as your mobile data line if needed.
- Activate the line at your destination (turn on data roaming).
* If tapping the link doesn't open the setup screen, your device may not be supported. In that case, use the QR code or manual entry below.
Setting Up with a QR Code
The wording varies slightly depending on your device and OS version, but the basic flow is the same.
On iPhone
- Connect to Wi-Fi.
- Open "Settings" → "Cellular" → "Add eSIM."
- Choose "Use QR Code."
- Scan the displayed QR code with your camera.
- Follow the prompts to add the plan, and select it as your cellular data line if needed.
On Android
- Connect to Wi-Fi.
- Go to "Settings" → "Network & internet" → "SIMs" (or similar) and choose to add an eSIM.
- Scan the QR code.
- Follow the prompts to download and activate.
* Menu names may differ by device—for example, "Mobile network" or "Connections."
Setting Up with Manual Entry (SM-DP+ Address)
When a QR code won't scan, choose an option like "Enter details manually" or "Enter code manually" on the same add screen.
- On the "Add eSIM" screen, choose "Enter manually."
- Enter the SM-DP+ address.
- Enter the activation code (if required).
- If you're asked for a confirmation code, follow the prompts.
- When the download finishes, activate the line.
To avoid typos, paste the code directly whenever you can copy and paste. Watch out for uppercase vs. lowercase letters, and easily confused characters (such as 0 and O, or 1 and l).
What to Do When Things Don't Work
If registration or your connection isn't working, don't panic—check the following in order.
- Reinstall on a stable connection such as Wi-Fi.
- If the one-tap link won't open, try the QR code or manual entry (and vice versa).
- Check that the SM-DP+ address and code were entered without typos.
- Make sure "data roaming" is turned on at your destination.
- Make sure your mobile data line is set to the eSIM.
- Restart your device.
If that still doesn't fix it, our troubleshooting page for connection problems has detailed steps. Note that once an eSIM is deleted, you may not be able to re-register it with the same QR code or link, so please check the guidance before deleting it.
How eSIM Setup Works with Bloomy
With Bloomy, after purchase you can view the one-tap setup link, QR code, and setup details (such as the SM-DP+ address) from your account page. Even on devices that can't use the one-tap link, we provide the QR code and manual-entry details too, so you can set up in whatever way suits your situation. You can also check your purchased eSIMs and remaining data from your account page.
If you'd like to choose a plan based on your destination and the data and number of days you need, you can search by country, data amount, and length of use on our eSIM comparison page. There are also options for those who'd rather not worry about how much data they use; note that unlimited-type plans may come with a fair use policy, reduced speeds after a certain amount of use, or conditions on tethering, so please check the latest terms before you buy. Plan details are subject to change, and connection quality can vary depending on the local network, your device, and your location.
