The term eSIM stands for "embedded SIM" - you can think of it as a digital SIM card. Just like physical SIMs, eSIMs allow devices like mobile phones, tablets, and even some laptops to connect to mobile networks.

An eSIM provides a smarter and more convenient way to stay connected by allowing you to download data packs directly to your device - no more scrambling for physical SIM cards, and no more worrying about losing your original SIM card.

What are the benefits of eSIMs?

First released in 2016, eSIMs offer a number of benefits.

• eSIMs can replace or supplement physical SIMs.
• eSIMs can easily be added to a device - installing just requires an internet connection.
• eSIMs can be used to flexibly connect to mobile networks around the world without expensively roaming with your primary mobile plan.

How does Airalo use eSIMs?

Airalo uses eSIMs to offer flexible, affordable connection to mobile networks around the world. We offer plans for coverage in specific countries, entire regions, and even the whole globe. Every Airalo offer includes an amount of data that's valid for a set amount of time - packages also include a phone number to make calls and send texts.

Exactly how your package connects to an eSIM depends on whether you're using the new Airalo or the public Airalo.

How do I know which version of the app I'm using?

• If the app asks you to set up your device once and buy packages, you are using the new Airalo. Simply open the Packages tab (formerly "My eSIMs") to complete setup, and after that, whenever you add a new package for your desired destination, it will be added to that same device automatically - no new eSIM needed.
• If the app shows individual eSIM installation instructions for each purchase and the My eSIMs tab instead of Packages, you are likely using the public Airalo.

If you're using the new Airalo: your device holds a single eSIM. You set it up once, and every package you buy - for any destination - is added to that same eSIM automatically. There's no separate eSIM to install per destination; when a package runs out or expires, you simply buy or top up a new package, and it connects through the eSIM that's already on your device.

If you're using the public Airalo: each destination comes with its own eSIM. So you'll need a separate eSIM for each destination where you want coverage. When your package runs out of data or expires, you can top it up to stay connected. However, if you're traveling to a destination for which you don't already have an eSIM installed, you'll need to install a new one.

What do I need to use an eSIM?

To use an eSIM, you'll need a device that supports eSIMs - this could be a mobile phone, tablet, laptop, or even a smart watch. It's also important to keep in mind that eSIMs will only work on eSIM-compatible and network-unlocked devices.

In order to guarantee that you can use eSIMs on your device, you can check our list of eSIM-compatible devices, or you can go straight to your device's settings to verify its eSIM capability:

• How to check if my iOS device is eSIM compatible and carrier unlocked?
• How to check if my Android device supports eSIM?

You'll also need a stable internet connection to install the eSIM on your device. The installation process usually takes a few minutes.

Once installed, you'll need to adjust a few settings to make sure your eSIM is ready to connect to a network.

If your device can be used with eSIMs, all you need to do is get an eSIM plan from Airalo to enjoy your device to the fullest!

If you have any more questions or need further assistance, don't hesitate to reach out - we're available 24/7 and always happy to help.