Does the Google Pixel 8a support eSIM?

Yes — eSIM supported

The Google Pixel 8a has eSIM hardware, so it can hold a travel data plan next to your usual SIM. Take 30 seconds to confirm it on your own unit before you buy anything — market variants differ.

Android SIM manager screen showing the Add eSIM option, as it appears on the Google Pixel 8a
Where the Add eSIM option appears in Android's SIM manager.

Short answer

Yes. The Google Pixel 8a supports eSIM. Dial *#06# — a 32-digit EID under the IMEI confirms it on your unit. The phone must also be carrier-unlocked for a travel eSIM to install.

Last verified 2026-08-16 against Google Pixel Help — eSIM.

Check the Google Pixel 8a yourself in 30 seconds

  1. 1

    Open Settings → Connections → SIM manager

    On the Google Pixel 8a, look for an “Add eSIM” or “Download a SIM instead?” option.

  2. 2

    Or dial *#06#

    If the popup lists a 32-digit EID below the IMEI, the phone has eSIM hardware.

  3. 3

    Update the software first

    Some models only expose the eSIM option after a system update; install pending updates before testing.

  4. 4

    Confirm the phone is carrier-unlocked

    Insert a SIM from another network. If it connects, the phone is unlocked and can install a travel eSIM.

Dialer popup showing IMEI and a 32-digit EID, the result that confirms eSIM hardware on a Google phone
The *#06# result. An EID line means eSIM hardware; no EID means none.

What to watch out for on Google

Pixel 3 and 3 XL units sold by Verizon in the US or Softbank in Japan do not support eSIM. Every other Pixel from Pixel 3 onward does.

Source: Google Pixel Help — eSIM · data reviewed 2026-08-16

Frequently asked questions

Does the Google Pixel 8a support eSIM?
YesThe Google Pixel 8a ships with eSIM hardware, so it can install a travel eSIM alongside your normal SIM. Confirm it on your own unit in 30 seconds: dial *#06# and look for a 32-digit EID under the IMEI. Verified against Google Pixel Help — eSIM and re-checked on 2026-08-16.
Can the Google Pixel 8a use a travel eSIM and my home SIM at the same time?
YesThe Google Pixel 8a runs a travel eSIM for data while your home line stays active for calls and SMS. Turn data roaming off on the home line so it cannot bill you.
Will a carrier-locked Google Pixel 8a accept a travel eSIM?
NoA phone locked to its original carrier rejects any foreign profile, even with eSIM hardware present — the Add eSIM option appears but the install fails. Ask the carrier for a network unlock first; most do it free once the contract period ends.
Does where I bought the Google Pixel 8a matter?
It dependson the brand. Pixel 3 and 3 XL units sold by Verizon in the US or Softbank in Japan do not support eSIM. Every other Pixel from Pixel 3 onward does. The *#06# test always reflects your specific unit, so trust it over any model list including this one.

Other Google devices

Keep reading

Compatibility data last reviewed 2026-08-16.