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How to refresh eSIM cellular data plan on iOS devices
The Update eSIM remote action in Hexnode UEM allows IT administrators to remotely activate or refresh cellular data plans on managed iOS devices by querying a carrier’s SM-DP+ server.
What is an eSIM and the “Update eSIM” Action?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM that allows users to activate a cellular plan without a physical card. The Update eSIM action triggers the device to contact a specific server to download and install new or updated cellular profiles over-the-air.
- Remote Activation: Provision mobile plans without physical device access.
- Carrier Integration: Connects directly to the network provider’s infrastructure.
- Fleet Management: Scalable solution for updating data plans across multiple corporate iOS assets.
Prerequisites and Support Requirements
Before initiating an eSIM update, verify that the managed endpoints meet the necessary technical specifications and have the required data from the carrier.
| Requirement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Supported only on iOS 13.0 or later. |
| Network Data | Requires a valid SM-DP+ server URL from the network operator. |
| Management State | Devices must be enrolled and active in the Hexnode UEM portal. |
| Hardware | The iOS device must be eSIM-compatible (iPhone XS/XR or newer). |
Step-by-Step Guide: Executing the Update eSIM Action
Follow these instructions to push a cellular plan update to a specific iOS device from the Hexnode console.
- Log in to the Hexnode portal.
- Navigate to the Manage tab and select Devices.
- Choose the target iOS device from the list.
- Navigate to Actions > Network and select Update eSIM.
- In the prompt, enter the eSIM (SM-DP+) server URL provided by your network operator.
- Click Update.
The device will then query the provided URL to download and install the cellular plan profiles.
Troubleshooting Guides
| Problem | Potential Root Cause | Resolution |
|---|---|---|
| “Update eSIM” action is missing | The device is running an unsupported OS. | Ensure the target device is running iOS 13.0 or later. |
| Cellular plan fails to install | Incorrect SM-DP+ server URL. | Verify the URL string with your network provider; ensure there are no leading or trailing spaces. |
| Action remains in “Pending” status | No active internet connection. | The device must be connected to Wi-Fi or have an existing active data connection to download the new eSIM profile. |
| Profile download timeout | Network operator server issues. | Retry the action later or check with the carrier to ensure the SM-DP+ server is operational. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is an SM-DP+ server URL?
The Subscription Manager Data Preparation (SM-DP+) server is the carrier-side platform that securely stores and delivers eSIM profiles to mobile devices upon request.
Will this action delete the existing physical SIM data?
No. The Update eSIM action specifically manages the digital eSIM profiles and does not impact the configuration of a physical SIM card installed in the device.
Can the action be used to switch carriers remotely?
Yes, provided you have the new carrier’s SM-DP+ server URL and the device is not carrier-locked.
Does the user need to do anything on the device?
Typically, the process is handled in the background, though the user may see a system notification indicating that a new cellular plan is ready to be installed or has been updated.
