Global travel has never been more accessible, but staying connected abroad often comes with frustrating limitations and unpredictable costs. Traditional roaming has long been a sore spot for both leisure and business travelers, with high fees, inconsistent coverage, and complicated SIM swaps making mobile connectivity a constant worry. Against this backdrop, innovative players in the telecom space are rethinking how connectivity should work across borders. One such breakthrough comes from Firsty, a fast-growing eSIM platform that has already made waves with its promise of free and low-cost global data, and Proximus Global, the international powerhouse behind Belgium’s leading telecom group.

This newly announced partnership marks a decisive step toward making roaming seamless, transparent, and truly affordable. By combining Firsty’s disruptive technology stack and user-first approach with Proximus Global’s scale, expertise, and international operator relationships, the collaboration sets the stage for a new era of frictionless global connectivity. For travelers, it means one less thing to worry about when crossing borders; for the telecom industry, it signals just how quickly eSIM is transforming expectations around mobile data.

The Collaboration at a Glance

• Firsty, a forward-thinking eSIM platform offers global mobile data connectivity to travelers, service providers, and enterprises. Their service portfolio includes unique offerings like free global connectivity and collaborations with major players such as Uber, Mastercard, and Belfius.
• Proximus Global, the international arm of the Belgian telecom group, brings its robust mobile infrastructure, expertise, and partnerships to this union.

Together, Firsty will mesh its proprietary telecom stack—including its own eSIM provisioning capabilities—with Proximus Global’s network reach and operational know-how. This synergy enables:

• Faster time-to-market for Firsty,
• Reduced operational costs, and
• A more reliable and user-friendly experience across borders.

What This Means for Users

Gauthier Thierens, co-founder of Firsty, underscores the impact:

“Without the global networks of partners like Proximus, our mission would not be possible. Together, we are leveling the playing field… Our users no longer have to think about mobile connectivity while travelling… They are simply connected, in more than 170 countries, for free or at a fixed low price.”

Jorn Vercamert, Chief Product Officer at Proximus Global, points to the transformation brought by eSIM technology:

“Cross‑border telecom has historically been complex. The arrival of eSIM has changed this. But for it to work well, global scale and collaborations with operators around the world are essential. This is precisely what Proximus Global can offer Firsty, to jointly enable players like Uber to be online worldwide.”

• Travelers avoid SIM swaps, hidden roaming charges, and the need for multiple country-specific rates.
• Firsty connects users in over 170 countries at either free or low fixed pricing, simplifying and lowering the cost of staying connected.

Why It Matters in Today’s Connectivity Landscape

This partnership is a significant leap forward in mobile connectivity:

• For travelers: It removes the common hassles of roaming—no more confusing fees or juggling SIMs.
• For businesses and digital platforms: Firsty’s technology can easily integrate into services to offer reliable global data to users or employees, backed by the strength of Proximus Global’s infrastructure.
• For the telecom industry: It underscores the growing impact of eSIMs and cross-border collaborations in modern telecommunications.

With this alliance, Firsty and Proximus Global are paving the way toward more connected, hassle-free worldwide travel—bringing reliable mobile access to anyone, anywhere.