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- All you need to know about e-SIMs
e-SIMS: All you need to know 📲🌍
Hey Pirates, most of us like to disconnect when we're on holiday, but sometimes it's more useful to have data on the move. This way, you can use Google Maps to navigate unknown streets, search for the best restaurants in town, or, let's face it, show off to your friends that you're at the beach while they're at work.
e-SIM technology is changing the game for how we stay connected. As we move towards a more digital world, getting a handle on e-SIMs is super important.
Keep reading as we dive into why you might want to use an e-SIM, the benefits of using one over a physical SIM, and the best e-SIM providers out there.👇
Why you might want to use an e-SIM
1. Travel made easy
Travelling just got a whole lot easier with e-SIMs. Instead of swapping out physical SIM cards in every new country, you can switch profiles on your device with a few taps.
2. Dual SIM without the hassle
If you juggle multiple phone numbers for work and personal use or need different numbers while travelling, e-SIMs let you manage dual SIMs without needing a second physical slot (only available with some makes and models).
They also allow you to choose which you select for your data-line and your default voice-line, so you can still get all the calls and texts you usually would to your ordinary number, while using the data of the e-SIM.
3. Instant Activation
Need connectivity ASAP? e-SIMs can be activated instantly—no more waiting for a SIM card to arrive in the mail or making a trip to the store when you've arrived in your new destination.
Benefits of using an e-SIM instead of a physical SIM
Super flexible
Switching carriers with e-SIMs is a breeze. Found a better plan or need coverage in another region? Change your service provider without fiddling with physical SIM cards.
You can't lose an e-SIM
Since e-SIMs are built into your device, there’s no chance of losing or damaging the SIM card. This makes your device’s connectivity options more durable and reliable.
You can use an e-SIM time and time again
Following on from the point before. When you come back from your holiday, what are you going to do with that random Greek physical SIM card you bought? It'll go in a cupboard, never to see the light of day again. Even if you do go back to Greece, what's the likelihood of you remembering that you had it or where it is? Minimal, I imagine.
e-SIMs are stored on your phone, forever. You switch them off when you're back from your holiday, but they're stored on your phone until the next time you need to use it. Simply switch it back on, top it up or buy a new package and away you go.
The best e-SIM providers
Airalo
Airalo is a top e-SIM provider known for its wide coverage and budget-friendly plans. Offering e-SIMs in over 190 countries, it’s a fantastic option for frequent travellers.
Key Features:
Tons of international plans
Easy-to-use app for managing e-SIM profiles
Great prices
Truphone
Truphone is perfect for global connectivity, especially for business users. They offer a range of services, including data plans that cover multiple regions.
Key Features:
Global reach with multi-country plans
Strong support
Flexible data packages
Ubigi
Ubigi provides fast internet access in over 150 countries, suitable for both personal and business use. It’s known for reliable connectivity and a straightforward platform.
Key Features:
High-speed data plans
No hidden fees or roaming charges
Easy e-SIM activation
GigSky
GigSky specialises in e-SIM services for travellers, with plans tailored to specific regions and durations. It’s ideal for those looking for short-term data access.
Key Features:
Regional and global data plans
Flexible short-term packages
Simple purchase and activation process
Holafly
Holafly is a top e-SIM provider tailored for travellers. It offers a range of international data plans, covering 100+ countries, making it a reliable choice for staying connected while on the move.
Key Features:
Unlimited data plans available
Easy activation process
24/7 customer support
No roaming charges
User-friendly app for managing e-SIM profiles and data usage
How to install an e-SIM on your phone
To install an e-SIM, you follow almost the exact same steps for iPhone and Android. We've written the steps below.
You need to make sure you have a stable internet connection when you install your e-SIM. Strong Wi-Fi is best for this.
We advise you to install and activate your e-SIM in your home country before you reach your destination to ensure it is ready to use as soon as you arrive.
Installing an e-SIM on an iPhone
1. Ensure compatibility:
Make sure your iPhone supports e-SIM. iPhone XR, iPhone XS, iPhone 11, iPhone 12, iPhone 13, iPhone SE (2nd generation), and iPhone 14 and later are compatible with one physical SIM and one e-SIM while iPhone 13, iPhone SE (3rd generation), and later accept two e-SIMs.
2. Ensure your iPhone is running the latest version of iOS.
3. Choose Your e-SIM Plan:
Purchase an e-SIM plan from a provider like Airalo, Truphone, Ubigi, GigSky, or Holafly.
4. There are various ways to install the e-SIM. If you have another device with you, you can scan the QR Code:
Go to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan.
Use your iPhone’s camera to scan the QR code provided by your e-SIM carrier.
If you received an activation code, enter it manually.
Once your e-SIM is purchased, the instructions for different installation methods will be available on the app of the provider you chose.
5. Label Your e-SIM:
Label your e-SIM to differentiate it from other plans. Common labels include Primary, Secondary, Business, or Travel. If you plan to have many e-SIMs, you could also use the country to identify the e-SIM.
6. Activate Your Plan:
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup. Your e-SIM will be activated and ready to use.
7. Set Default Line (Optional):
If you have multiple SIMs, go to Settings > Cellular and choose your default line for calls, messages, and data. I always leave my default voice line (for calls and messages) as my regular at-home physical sim and have data coming from my e-SIM.
Installing an e-SIM on an Android Phone
1. Ensure Compatibility:
Check if your Android phone supports e-SIM. Popular compatible models include Google Pixel 3 and later, Samsung Galaxy S20 and later, and others.
2. Ensure your phone is running the latest version of Android.
3. Choose Your e-SIM Plan:
Purchase an e-SIM plan from a provider like Airalo, Truphone, Ubigi, GigSky, or Holafly.
4. There are various ways to install the e-SIM. If you have another device with you, you can scan the QR Code:
Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network > Advanced > Carrier > Add Carrier.
Use your phone’s camera to scan the QR code provided by your e-SIM carrier.
If you received an activation code, enter it manually.
Once your e-SIM is purchased, the instructions for different installation methods will be available on the app of the provider you chose.
5. Label Your e-SIM:
Label your e-SIM to differentiate it from other plans, such as Work, Travel, or Personal. If you plan to have many e-SIMs, you could also use the country to identify the e-SIM.
6. Activate Your Plan:
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup. Your e-SIM will be activated and ready to use.
7. Set Default Line (Optional):
If you have multiple SIMs, go to Settings > Network & Internet > SIM cards and choose your default line for calls, messages, and data. always leave my default voice line (for calls and messages) as my regular at-home physical sim and have data coming from my e-SIM.