iPad eSIM says unable to activate esim

I've been getting this error as well, through plans that I KNOW work with iPad. Namely Tello. I know the device is unlocked because my cricket sim works without a hitch

As indicated in your photo, the eSIM is not compatible with your iPad...

The majority of mobile phone eSIM/SIM-cards are not provisioned for use with tablet computers. If they work at all, they may not provide access to the full range of cellular services. This is not a limitation of the iPad, but of the Cellular network provider.

If using an eSIM or physical DataSIM with iPad, you will require a SIM explicitly provisioned for iPad or mobile broadband (a.k.a. MiFi).

Be aware that an iPad, whether a Cellular model or not, is not capable of directly accessing Cellular Voice or SMS/MMS Messaging features. An iPad with either WiFi or Cellular connectivity alone can only access IP-data services. If you have added an eSIM/DataSIM and Cellular plan to a WiFi+Cellular model of iPad, the number associated with the SIM card is only used to identify your account for billing purposes. This number is not used for making calls or sending messages.

If your Cricket sim works in the iPad and the iPad is not

locked to Cricket, then the Tello sim is either defective

and needs replacing or not properly provisioned - Tello

can fix. Work with Tello to resolve the matter.

Thank you for the update. Did not realize the iPad was

purchased from other than Apple.

If you completed the terms of your AT&T agreement,

AT&T should release the lock. You have to request

the release; it is not automatic.

That's the thing. I didn't. I bought it refurbished. The fact that ATT doesn't release the lock automatically is pretty sneaky. Then if the device is sold then it suckers them into thinking they have to use ATT service. And since they won't release the hold on the esim unless you're a customer then you're either forced to use their service or stick to physical sims. If they don't just disable the slot outright. I've heard reports of that happening too.

What source did you purchase this refurbished iPad from?

Who did the refurbishing?

If you were in the US, you could become an AT&T customer

for a month and get the iPad unlocked. Being in Uganda

limits that option.

Nope. The problem for me ended up being that ATT disabled the ESIM slot completely unless I want an ATT plan.