FAQ About eSIMs ⋆

FAQ About eSIMs

Are you planning a trip abroad and want to know more about using an eSIM? Perhaps you’ve heard of eSIMs but aren’t quite sure what they are or how they work. We’ve got you covered. FAQ About eSIMs

In this article, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about eSIMs, giving you the peace of mind to stay connected wherever you travel.

What is an eSIM? FAQ About eSIMs

An eSIM is a digital SIM card that is embedded in your mobile device. It’s an alternative to a physical SIM card, which you have to insert and remove from your phone. With an eSIM, you can activate a mobile network without having to put in a physical SIM card.

What is the difference between an eSIM and a SIM?

An eSIM serves the same purpose as a physical SIM card, but it’s built-in and works 100% digitally. You can’t physically remove it since it’s already embedded in your phone’s hardware. And you don’t need to insert a new one to connect to a mobile network.

What can I do with an eSIM?

You can do the same things with an eSIM as you would with a traditional SIM, including connecting to a mobile network, browsing the internet, using your favorite apps, and using internet-based calling and messaging apps (like Whatsapp).

What are the benefits of using an Airalo eSIM?

There are several benefits to using an Airalo eSIM to stay connected when you travel. Here are a few to keep in mind:

Choose from eSIMs for 200+ countries and regions worldwide.
Stay connected with local, regional, and global eSIM plans.
Instantly connect to a mobile network at your destination.
Say goodbye to expensive roaming charges.
Store multiple eSIM data plans on your device.
Running out of data? Easily top up in the Airalo app.

Which devices support eSIMs?

You’ll need to check if your device is eSIM-compatible before you can use an eSIM. Most newer versions of smartphones, tablets, and wearable devices support eSIMs, but it’s always best to verify with your device manufacturer. You can review our list of eSIM-compatible devices here.

Where can I buy an eSIM?

You can buy an eSIM from your mobile carrier or from an eSIM provider like Airalo. An eSIM from your mobile carrier will replace the SIM card in your phone, while an eSIM from Airalo will serve as a supplementary local line for when you travel. Visit the Airalo website or app (App Store | Google Play Store) to get an eSIM for your next trip!

How do I install an Airalo eSIM? FAQ About eSIMs

Installing an Airalo eSIM just takes a few minutes! You can follow these step-by-step guides to install an eSIM on your device:

iOS

On your device, go to Settings
Tap Cellular or Mobile.
Tap Add Cellular Plan or Add Mobile Data Plan.

Samsung Galaxy

GO to Settings.
TAP Connections.
TAP SIM Manager.
TAP Add eSIM.

Google Pixel

In Settings, TAP Network & Internet.
TAP the + icon next to SIMs.
TAP Download a SIM Instead?

Android devices

1. Go to Settings on your device

2. Tap on Network & Internet

3. Tap the Add or + icon next to Mobile Network

4. Tap Next when asked, “Don’t have a SIM card?”

5. Scan your QR code and add the confirmation code if prompted

6. Go back to your “Install eSIM/Access Data” screen.

7. Turn on eSIM under Mobile Network

8. Enable Mobile Data

9. Enable Data Roaming (Please turn off your primary line to avoid roaming charges from your carrier provider when overseas)

10. Go to Network & Internet and tap on the Mobile network to set the correct network preferences listed in the Additional Info which is at the bottom-right of the selected data package page.

11. Set up an APN(access point name) on your device if required.

When will my eSIM activate?

You can review your eSIM details under the “Additional Information” section of your eSIM package to determine when your eSIM will activate. Most eSIMs will automatically activate when you connect to a mobile network at your destination. Others will activate immediately upon installation.

Can I use a SIM and eSIM at the same time?

You sure can! You don’t need to remove your phone’s SIM card to use an eSIM at the same time. With Dual SIM technology, you can use them together. Many travelers opt for an eSIM to stay connected to their original home line, too. An eSIM helps travelers connect like locals and continue receiving OTPs and essential messages and calls on their home line.

Can I install multiple eSIMs on one device?

Yes, you can activate and use multiple eSIMs on your device. This can be helpful when traveling to multiple countries or if you have a personal and business number that you need to keep separate. However, keep in mind that some devices can only hold a certain number of eSIMs, so check with your device manufacturer to see how many eSIMs your device can support.

What if I run out of eSIM data?

With an Airalo eSIM, you can track and top up your data right in the Airalo app. Running low? Simply purchase a top-up package or another eSIM to stay connected on the go.

Can I make a phone call with an eSIM?

If you have an eSIM with call and text services, it will come with a local or international number so you can place calls and texts while abroad. If your eSIM is data-only, you can use internet-based calling apps like Whatsapp, FaceTime, or Skype to chat without roaming.

Can I use the same eSIM in another country?

It depends on the type of eSIM you purchased! A local eSIM gives you coverage in a single country. A regional eSIM gives you coverage across several countries in a region. And a global eSIM gives you coverage across several countries around the world.

Can I set up a personal hotspot with an eSIM?

Setting up a personal hotspot with an eSIM is indeed possible and quite convenient. When you activate an eSIM on your device, it becomes your primary mobile data connection. This means that you can easily turn on your device’s hotspot feature and share your internet connection with other devices, just like you would with a traditional SIM card.

Can I turn off an eSIM?

Yes, you can. Your eSIM will typically be displayed as a secondary line on your device. And you can enable and disable it in your smartphone settings.