Mobile telephony technology has become a necessity for business and personal communication, especially with the advent of smartphones. Mobile service providers offer internet connectivity, enabling consumers to access data services in remote areas.
However, these companies are local and their network coverage is limited to their countries of operation. Customers must use roaming services when travelling across borders. Roaming services are costly and can significantly increase your travelling expenses.
Luckily, you can avoid these high costs by adopting eSIM technology. This solution also gives you the flexibility to communicate from anywhere. Here is a quick guide to get you started with eSIM acquisition and setup.
What is an eSIM, really?
Traditionally, mobile service providers offer SIM cards to clients, which they insert into their phones to connect to GSM networks. These SIM cards can only work with a single service provider. If you wish to use the services of multiple mobile companies, you can buy a SIM card for each.
On the other hand, eSIM technology doesn’t work with physical SIM cards. It uses universal SIM chips embedded in smartphones and supports software that can connect to GSM networks. Such smartphones do not require physical SIM cards even when travelling abroad.
For instance, let’s say you want to visit Morocco and would like to stay connected to the internet on your mobile device. All you need is to shop for the best eSIM for Morocco and set it up for use once you arrive at your destination.
If you are travelling to another country, buy an eSIM plan for the new destination without acquiring a new phone. You can purchase these plans from anywhere, anytime, and only activate them when you reach your destination. Here's where you can find the Best eSIM For Safe Solo Female Travel and read about The Cost of eSIM: Is It Worth It?
eSIM solutions allow you to connect to local GSM networks. Most packages offer affordable data plans that you can use to stay connected with friends via WhatsApp and other platforms. Professionals can also access company networks remotely.
First-time setup walkthrough
Before purchasing an eSIM solution, make sure your mobile device is compatible with this technology. This way, you will not have issues when setting up your eSIM plan. Here’s a quick guide on setting up your eSIM plan.
- Choose a plan that suits your needs - Start by buying an eSIM plan that’s within your budget and meets your data needs. Examples of leading eSIM solution providers include Airalo, Nomad, and Holafly.
- Download and install eSIM software - Once you pay for your eSIM plan, your service provider will send you an email with details on how to download and install the software. This can be done through scanning a QR code or following manual steps.
- Activate your eSIM plan - Please note that you are advised to activate your eSIM plan once you arrive at your destination. Activating while in your country of residence will automatically attract cross-border rates, which are higher than the standard eSIM charges.
Common activation errors
While the process of activating an eSIM plan is straightforward, some users still encounter challenges that might delay them from enjoying these services as planned. Here are some errors that you might encounter and tips on how to resolve them.
- Device compatibility issues - eSIM solutions only work on compatible smartphones and iPhones. You may have to purchase a smartphone that supports eSIM technology if your current device doesn’t. Additionally, some devices may be locked to operate with a specific mobile carrier. Such phones may not support other cellular mobile carriers. In such cases, you will need to buy a mobile device that can work with any mobile network.
- Software errors - Your device could be running an operating system that is not supported by your service provider. In this case, you will need to update your device software
- Installation-related errors - Your eSIM profile may fail to install correctly if you miss some steps during the setup process. Additionally, if your QR code is defective or the internet connection is unstable, you may not complete the installation process. Avoid such hiccups by following the service provider's instructions to the letter. Additionally, ensure a stable internet connection when downloading, installing, and activating the eSIM solution. Keep your printed QR code safe to prevent it from being defaced.
Managing multiple eSIM profiles
One of the advantages of eSIM technology is that it supports multiple profiles on a single device without the need for physical SIM cards for each mobile carrier. On the flipside, managing multiple profiles can be a challenge, especially if you are a frequent traveller.
On eSIM settings, add a new profile and use your service provider QR code to activate your new profile. You may need to label these profiles appropriately to help you switch from one to another with ease if you intend to use them during your trip.
For instance, if you are travelling for work, you can have your work-rated profile labelled differently from the personal one. This way, it will be easy to know which profile you are using at any given time, especially if your company restricts eSIMs for business use only.
Consider monitoring your data usage to avoid surpassing your daily limit, especially if you are on a metered plan. Alternatively, you can consider purchasing an unlimited plan for a fixed daily rate.
It is advisable to delete old eSIM profiles that you do not need, especially if you are using a company device that has been used by other employees. This simple act helps to conserve battery power and organise your device.
When to use customer support
Sometimes, even with the best advice, things may not work as intended. That’s when customer support services come in handy. For instance, when activating your eSIM profile, and your QR code isn’t working, do not get in touch with the customer support for assistance.
If you pay for your eSIM plan and don’t get an email from your service provider with activation details, do a follow-up because there could be a technical challenge in generating responses. Such issues could delay you from using the eSIM service.
You can also contact your customer support team if you want to enhance your current plan or enquire about the company's products that you might be interested in. This way, they can advise you on the best product that suits your needs.
