Android Universal Link for eSIM Install (GSMA LPA Format) is Finally Here!
Android Now Supports Universal Links. The eSIM link format introduced by Apple is now supported by Android and allows users to install an eSIM directly with one tap, without scanning QR codes or entering activation strings manually.
While this is a universal standard, device support is rolling out progressively. Currently, the feature requires devices running Android 10 or later with the latest Google Mobile Services (GMS) updates.
Google AI Overview announcement:
While Apple has an established Universal Link for eSIM installation, a similar, widely adopted “Android Universal Link” standard for direct, system-level eSIM installation is an emerging feature, not yet universally available across all Android devices or carriers.
Similarities to Apple Universal Link
The link format is exactly like Apple’s universal link format.
iOS (17.4+):
https://esimsetup.apple.com/esim_qrcode_provisioning?carddata=LPA:1$GSMA_SMDP_Address$activation_code
Android (10+):
https://esimsetup.android.com/esim_qrcode_provisioning?carddata=LPA:1$GSMA_SMDP_Address$activation_code
What Android Universal Link Does
Android Universal Link for eSIMs provide a fast, secure, tap-to-install flow. The link embeds the eSIM’s SM-DP+ address and activation code directly into a URL. When opened on a compatible Android phone, it triggers the system eSIM installer automatically.
Example link format:
https://esimsetup.android.com/esim_qrcode_provisioning?carddata=LPA:1$GSMA_SMDP_Address$activation_code
How It Works (Android)
1. Carrier or eSIM Provider Generates Link
After purchasing an eSIM, the provider sends a universal link shaped like:
https://esimsetup.android.com/esim_qrcode_provisioning?carddata=LPA:1$GSMA_SMDP_Address$activation_code
This URL contains the LPA string:LPA:1$SMDP+_$Activation_Code
2. User Taps the Link
The user opens the link on a compatible Android eSIM device (Pixel, Samsung Galaxy, Oppo latest eSIM phones, etc. that support eSIM LPA URL provisioning).
Android Universal Links can be triggered from Google’s ecosystem software like Chrome, SMS, and Gmail and other apps that can open URLs. Alternatively, they can be launched using apps with deeplinks.
Opening from WhatsAPP or non-google properties is not supported.
3. Automatic eSIM Setup
Android System Manager detects the LPA string and launches the default eSIM installer.
The “Add eSIM” screen opens automatically with all details pre-filled.
4. Confirm Installation
The user follows on-screen instructions to download and activate the eSIM profile.
Benefits of Android Universal Links:
- Simplicity: No QR code scanning or typing long activation codes.
- Faster Activation: Instant access to the eSIM setup flow with one click.
- Lower Risk of Errors: Avoids mis-typed activation codes or incorrect QR scanning.
- Convenient Across Channels: Links can be delivered via chrome, email, SMS, apps, or web pages.
Who Uses It?
This method is used by MVNOs, travel eSIM providers, and IoT connectivity platforms—especially those offering automated, self-service onboarding for users on Android devices.
Android Version Compatibility: Android 10+
To use this feature, devices must run Android 10+ with the latest Google Mobile Services (GMS) update (most phones update automatically, and any 2025-ready GMS version works) and also needs to be the latest SIM Manager（LPA)，please go to Google Play Store for updating your LPA and try the universal link again.
Android Brand Penetration: looking for new brand users
Testing shows strong compatibility across the Android ecosystem: Samsung, Google Pixel, and OPPO work seamlessly; vivo requires enabling eSIM manually; and Xiaomi is still pending verification. If you have Xiaomi or other brands with eSIM, contact us for free Universal Link eSIM trials so we can help broaden support for more Android models.
Android Universal Link accessible in our console/API/SDK now.
The link is available directly from:
1. The eSIM Access Console Portal, making it easy for ecommerce/Shopify owners to send to customers efficiently via SMS, email, or chat apps.
2.In eSIM Access Portal, the eSIM Short URLs after purchasing include the new Android one-click install link, offering instant activation without scanning a QR code.
3.Developers can also retrieve activation codes via the eSIM Access API/Portal and integrate them into their H5 pages or apps. API responses will soon provide both Apple and Android Universal Links automatically.
This capability will also be added to the eSIM Access SDK.
Watch Demos:
From eSIM Access Console, open “Android Universal Link”:
From SMS, Open “Android Universal Link”:
