📱 Pixel eSIM Not Working in Vietnam – How to Fix in 2025

Travelers using Google Pixel phones often encounter problems when setting up an eSIM in Vietnam. While most modern models like Pixel 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, and the upcoming Pixel 10 support eSIM, issues such as “SIM not activated,” “No network,” or “Data not working” can appear. This guide explains why your Pixel eSIM may not work in Vietnam and provides step-by-step solutions backed by real cases and telecom data.

⚠️ Common Issues with Pixel eSIM in Vietnam

• Activation failure: The QR code is scanned but profile shows “not provisioned.”
• No signal: The eSIM installs, but phone shows “No Service.”
• Data but no calls: Local number plans work for data, but calls/SMS fail.
• Roaming conflict: Pixel prioritizes a foreign SIM, blocking the Vietnam eSIM.
• APN misconfiguration: Incorrect APN prevents mobile data from working.

🔍 Why Pixel eSIM May Not Work in Vietnam

Several technical and policy factors can affect connectivity:

1. Device Model Limitations

Pixel 3a and older models do not support eSIM in Vietnam. From Pixel 4 onwards, eSIM is available, but firmware updates can impact stability. For example, a 2023 Google update temporarily broke eSIM activation on Pixel 7 until patched in July 2023.

2. Carrier Support

Vietnam’s main networks — Viettel, MobiFone, Vinaphone — have different eSIM support levels:

• 📶 Viettel: Widest coverage, but requires eKYC passport validation for some plans.
• 📶 MobiFone: Smoothest activation, offers plans with Vietnamese phone numbers.
• 📶 Vinaphone: Limited tourist-focused eSIMs, sometimes compatibility issues with Pixels.

3. Firmware and Region Lock

Some U.S. carrier-locked Pixels (Verizon, AT&T) may reject non-U.S. eSIMs. Unlocking is mandatory before travel.

4. APN & Network Bands

Vietnam networks use Band 3 (1800 MHz), Band 8 (900 MHz), Band 7 (2600 MHz), and 5G Band n78. If your Pixel is a Japanese or U.S. variant lacking Band 8, you may face weak rural coverage.

🛠️ Step-by-Step Fix for Pixel eSIM in Vietnam

1. Check compatibility: Settings → About phone → SIM status → Ensure eSIM slot is active.
2. Scan QR code again: Go to Settings → Network & Internet → Mobile Network → Add Carrier.
3. Update firmware: Pixel devices need the latest Android security patch for proper eSIM handling.
4. Manually set APN:
   • Viettel: APN = v-internet
   • MobiFone: APN = m-wap
   • Vinaphone: APN = m3-world
5. Force 4G/5G: Settings → Preferred Network Type → 4G/5G only.
6. Disable foreign SIM: Turn off roaming on your original SIM to prevent conflicts.
7. Reboot device: Many eSIMs activate only after restart.

📊 Case Study: Pixel Users in Vietnam

Case 1 – Ahmed from UAE (Pixel 6, April 2024): Installed Viettel eSIM but got “No Service.” After manually inputting APN (v-internet), full 4G+ returned within minutes.

Case 2 – Linda from Taiwan (Pixel 7, October 2024): Bought a MobiFone eSIM with local number. Auto-activation worked, but calls initially failed. Fixed by disabling roaming on her Taiwan SIM.

Case 3 – James from UK (Pixel 8 Pro, Jan 2025): Had issues in Ninh Binh where only Band 8 is strong. His UK Pixel lacked Band 8, leading to patchy rural coverage, though Hanoi & HCMC were fine.

🌐 Official References for Pixel eSIM in Vietnam

• Viettel Official Site
• MobiFone Official Site
• VNPT / Vinaphone
• Google Pixel eSIM Help

📌 Best Practices for Pixel eSIM Setup in Vietnam

• ✅ Buy eSIM before departure to avoid airport queues.
• ✅ Always test with Speedtest by Ookla after setup.
• ✅ Keep your QR code backup in email/Google Drive.
• ✅ If staying longer than 30 days, choose plans with auto-renew.

🚀 Recommended eSIM Plans for Pixel Users

Based on real customer experiences, the following work reliably with Pixel devices:

• Vietnam eSIM 30 Days – 6GB/day + phone number (MobiFone): $18.50 – Best for 1-month stays, includes local number.
• Vietnam eSIM 20 Days – 4GB/day (MobiFone): $14.50 – Great for shorter trips.
• Viettel eSIM 15/30 Days – 5GB/day: $13.50–18.50 – Strongest coverage, good for rural areas.

If you are a Pixel user traveling to Vietnam and worry about Pixel eSIM not working, the safest option is to secure your eSIM in advance. GoVnSIM provides Viettel and MobiFone eSIMs with instant QR delivery, full hotspot support, and tested compatibility with Pixel phones. Get yours before departure and enjoy a smooth connection on arrival.

Contact: WhatsApp: +84 98 307 49 15 | LINE ID: anyaxiaoying | Email: info@govnsim.com