How to Use Airalo eSIM Without the App in 2026 — QR and Web
The Airalo app is convenient but optional. If you don't want yet another app, you've got an old iPhone with no spare storage, or you simply don't enjoy creating accounts — you can install and use Airalo eSIM directly via the QR code in your phone settings. Here's how.
Why the Default Path Is "Through the App"
Standard Airalo flow: install the app → create an account → buy eSIM → tap "Install eSIM" → the phone proposes adding a profile. Convenient, but:
- The app requires an account (email + password)
- The Russian Play Store carries it but in-app payment fails
- It takes ~150 MB on iOS
- Promo notifications can be annoying
- It's not required for the eSIM itself — it's just a frontend over the QR code
The eSIM profile is, technically, a set of network settings that load into the phone. The Airalo app only smooths over installation and renewals.
What You Need to Work Without the App
- The Airalo QR code (delivered by email at purchase)
- A compatible phone: iPhone XS+, Pixel 4+, Samsung S20+, etc.
- Stable Wi-Fi for initial install
- Optional: an airalo.com web account for top-ups
Step-by-Step: Install via QR Without the App
On iPhone (iOS 15+)
- Open the email from Marix or Airalo with the QR
- Settings → Cellular (or Mobile Service)
- Add eSIM → Use QR Code
- Camera scans the QR from a computer screen (or printout)
- Name the profile ("Turkey", etc.)
- Toggle on/off (toggle off if you're still home)
- For default lines, keep your main SIM
On Android (Pixel, Samsung)
- Open the email with the QR
- Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → Add SIM → Download a SIM instead
- Scan the QR
- Confirm profile download
- Pick a network name
- Don't activate until landing
Manual Input Alternative
If the QR won't scan, the Airalo email also lists three text fields:
- SM-DP+ Address: e.g.,
consumer.rsp.global - Activation Code: long alphanumeric string
- Confirmation Code: usually not required
In phone settings choose "Enter Details Manually" and paste.
Managing via the airalo.com Web Dashboard
If you have an airalo.com account (optional but useful):
- Check remaining data — Login → My eSIMs
- Top up the same package — "Add Data"
- Change email / details — Settings
- Purchase history — Orders
If you bought via a reseller (like Marix) and have no airalo.com account:
- On first QR activation the package binds to ICCID, not to an account
- To see it in a dashboard later, create an account afterwards and it'll show as bound
How to See Remaining Data Without the App
| Method | How |
|---|---|
| iPhone settings | Settings → Cellular → eSIM name → Usage |
| airalo.com web | Login → My eSIMs → choose the card |
| USSD code | Works on some packages: *102# |
| Email notification | Airalo sends a warning at 80% and 100% usage |
The most reliable method is the airalo.com dashboard via browser. Works on any device.
What's Important to Know
- Without the app, the eSIM works identically — it's just a different install/management path
- Transferring to a new phone — the app helps, but isn't critical; you can save the QR and reinstall (if unused) or request a re-issue from support
- The QR is one-time use — once installed, it can't be re-scanned; you'd need a new code from support
- An eSIM profile takes a slot — up to 8 stored, 2 active on iPhone
The Simplest Path
Marix delivers the Airalo QR directly to your email — no app needed to buy or install. Open the email, scan in settings, profile installs. If you later want a tidier package management UI, sign up for a free airalo.com account.