Crowdfunded mobile operator Honest Mobile, which harnesses Three UK’s network via a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) agreement, has announced the launch of a “first-of-its-kind SIM” plan—Smart SIM—that is multi-network and designed to tackle expensive global roaming, as well as poor UK phone signals.

The supposedly “industry-first” eSIM solution works alongside your main SIM to provide 200+ essential apps with “unlimited data” (broadband) on mobile operators including EE, O2, and Three UK, plus free global roaming on those same apps in 180+ countries.

The key detail here is that the new Smart SIM only “kicks in when you lose signal in the UK or go abroad,” automatically connecting essential apps to the strongest available network. To date, these 200+ apps include WhatsApp, Google Maps, Uber, and Monzo, with more added every week.

After almost 100,000 people signed up to the operator’s waiting list last year, Smart SIM is now available to buy instantly.

Andy Aitken, CEO and co-founder of Honest, said:

“The big mobile networks have set the bar shockingly low when it comes to meeting consumer needs. Too many people still struggle with connectivity, both in the UK and abroad. With yet more price hikes coming this April, Brits deserve better. We developed Smart SIM to tackle poor UK signal and expensive roaming, giving people peace of mind about staying connected, without worrying about losing signal or expensive roaming.”

The price of Smart SIM starts at either £10 per month or the equivalent of £3.75 per month if you pre-pay for a year in advance (normally £120). The plan is clearly focused more on data connectivity.

Honest Mobile eSIM works alongside your main SIM to provide unlimited data on 200+ apps across three major UK networks, plus free roaming in 180+ countries.

‍So when your signal drops or you go abroad, you automatically connect to another network. Keeping apps like WhatsApp, Google Maps, Uber and Monzo at your fingertips, with unlimited data to boot.

Honest Mobile smart SIM roaming

From South Africa to Sri Lanka, Italy to India, Smart SIM has got your essential apps covered in 180+ countries (see the full list of available countries here). No hidden costs or scary bills to worry about while you’re away.

But you’ll need to hop onto wifi for activities like web browsing or streaming. Also, you will need your main SIM for texts and calls.