Pixel eSIM Failure / eUICC Chip Malfunction

​Since the system update version 260305, there have been numerous reports of eSIM failures. The symptoms are that eSIMs cannot be added or removed, and checking *#*#4636#*#* shows the available eUICC bytes as -1. ​The models most affected are the Pixel 9 series, including: ​Pixel 9 ​Pixel 9a ​Pixel 9 Pro ​Pixel 9 Pro XL ​Pixel 9 Pro Fold ​This issue can occur across all regional variants, including US, JP, AU, and GB. ​The Root Cause (Trigger Condition) ​As a smartphone reseller, I have identified the exact operation most likely to trigger this permanent failure: Updating to version 260305 (or later), unlocking the Bootloader, and then re-locking it. This specific sequence carries an extremely high risk of bricking the eSIM functionality. ​This process is highly common because it mirrors the standard automated workflow when flashing firmware via flash.android.com. Consequently, users trying to return to stock or clean-flash their devices are triggering this glitch very easily. ​Important Recommendations: ​DO NOT update to the 260305 system version if you plan on flashing your device. ​If you are already on version 260305 or newer, DO NOT attempt to unlock the bootloader. ​If your bootloader is already unlocked, DO NOT try to lock it back under any circumstances. ​Current Google Status ​As of now, Google has not released any official explanation or acknowledgement. Their current after-sales policy seems to be offering repairs or replacements only for devices still under warranty. However, since the majority of cases involve the Pixel 9 series—which has been out for nearly two years now—many users are already out of warranty and left stranded.

Posted Jun 17, 2026, 1:12 PM UTC

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