A technical analysis of APK files on a Pixel 9 phone running Android 17 (QPR3 Beta 2 version) has revealed a new feature under development that grants Google's AI assistant, Gemini, the ability to manage electronic SIMs (eSIMs) directly. The feature appears via a new Connector that links Gemini to Google's SIM Manager app, within Google app version 17.70.10.sa.arm64.
AI-Powered Connectivity Management Capabilities
According to what was extracted from the app files, this feature allows users to perform tasks that previously required complex manual steps through simple text or voice commands. The observed capabilities include:
- Setting up new eSIM profiles.
- Converting traditional physical SIMs to electronic SIMs.
- Transferring connectivity profiles between different devices.
- Restoring eSIM files from backups in the Google cloud.
- Safely deleting active SIM profiles.
It is noted that this feature has appeared exclusively on Pixel devices so far, as it was not detected on Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus or OnePlus 13R devices during initial testing.
Security Constraints and Controls
The Connector details page reveals a set of strict rules followed by Gemini to ensure security and accuracy; the assistant does not have the authority to change billing plans or access call logs. Gemini has also been instructed to avoid activating already installed eSIMs and will not respond to vague requests such as "set up the SIM" without specifying it is an eSIM, in order to avoid confusion with physical SIMs which this Connector does not support.
What Changes in Practice?
This step represents a shift in how users interact with the telecommunications infrastructure in their phones. Instead of navigating complex settings menus or manually scanning QR codes, users will be able to manage their digital identity and connectivity through natural conversation with AI. This reduces "technical friction" when changing service providers or moving to a new phone, making connectivity management a seamless and fully automated process.