# 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?**
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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**
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Before initiating an eSIM update, verify that the managed endpoints meet the necessary technical specifications and have the required data from the carrier.

RequirementSpecification**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**
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Follow these instructions to push a cellular plan update to a specific iOS device from the Hexnode console.

1. Log in to the **Hexnode portal**.
2. Navigate to the **Manage** tab and select **Devices**.
3. Choose the target **iOS device** from the list.
4. Navigate to **Actions > Network** and select **Update eSIM**.
5. In the prompt, enter the **eSIM (SM-DP+) server URL** provided by your network operator.
6. Click **Update**.

The device will then query the provided URL to download and install the cellular plan profiles.

**Troubleshooting Guides**
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ProblemPotential Root CauseResolution**“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)**
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#### **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.