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. 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.
You'll learn:
- What is an eSIM?
- What is the difference between an eSIM and a SIM?
- What can I do with an eSIM?
- What are the benefits of using an Airalo eSIM?
- Which devices support eSIMs?
- Where can I buy an eSIM?
- How do I install an Airalo eSIM?
- When will my eSIM activate?
- Can I use a SIM and an eSIM at the same time?
- Can I install multiple eSIMs on one device?
- What if I run out of eSIM data?
- Can I make a phone call with an eSIM?
- Can I use the same eSIM in another country?
- Can I set up a personal hotspot with an eSIM?
- Can I turn off an eSIM?
What is an eSIM?
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.
Related:What Is an eSIM and How Does It Work?
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.
Related:The Difference Between eSIMs and Physical SIMs
What can I do with an eSIM?
You can do the same things with an eSIM as you would 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 of 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 upin 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 deviceshere.
Related:How Do I Know If My Phone Supports eSIM?
Where can I buy an eSIM?
You can buy an eSIM from your mobile carrier or 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!
Related:How To Get Your First eSIM
How do I install an Airalo eSIM?
Installing an Airalo eSIM just takes a few minutes! You can follow these step-by-step guides to install an eSIM on your device:
- How to install an eSIM on an iOS device
- How to install an eSIM on a Samsung Galaxy device
- How to install an eSIM on a Google Pixel device
- How to install an eSIM on an Android device
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. In fact, 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.
Related:Can I Use an eSIM and a Regular SIM at the Same Time?
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.
Related:How Many eSIMs Can I Add To My Device?
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.
Related:eSIM Data 101: How To Track and Top Up Your Data
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.
Related:How To Make a Phone Call With a Data-Only eSIM
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.
Related:Can I Use My eSIM in Another Country?
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.
Related:How To Set Up an eSIM Hotspot
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.
Related:Can I Turn Off an eSIM?
You're equipped with all you need to know about eSIMs and how they work! Have other questions? Visit ourHelp Centerto learn even more!
Alisha Whitley
Alisha is a Canadian expat based in Portugal. She’s an avid traveler and writes about all things travel and tech for Airalo.
