If you're using the new Airalo, eSIMs are data-only, so this applies whenever you're using the new Airalo. If you're using the public Airalo, most eSIMs include voice calls and SMS in addition to data — if that's the case for your eSIM, this article doesn't apply to you.
Please check your eSIM's package details to learn your package type.
A data-only eSIM does not provide cellular voice or SMS service, and it does not come with a phone number. To receive calls and SMS while you use your eSIM for data, you need to keep using your primary line.
How do I know if I'm using the new Airalo or the public Airalo?
- 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 buy 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.
To use your primary line for voice and text while you use your eSIM for data, enable it and set it as your Default Voice line.
Important: Keep in mind that, depending on your home provider, an active primary line can incur roaming charges for incoming calls and voicemail even when data roaming is turned off. So we strongly encourage you to consult your home provider to learn about them before proceeding.
How many eSIMs can I have active on my device?
The number of eSIMs you can have active on your device varies by device model:
- iPhone 13 models (13 Pro Max, 13 Pro, 13, 13 mini): You can use Dual SIM with either two active eSIMs or a nano-SIM and an eSIM.
- iPhone 12, iPhone 11, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR: Feature Dual SIM with a nano-SIM and an eSIM, but you can only have one eSIM active at a time.
For more information, please contact your device's manufacturer.
How can I set my primary voice line on iOS
- Go to Settings > Cellular
- Tap your Main / Primary line
- Toggle ON "Turn On This Line"
- Go back to Cellular. Then tap "Default Voice Line"
- Select your Main / Primary line
- Go back to the Cellular page. This time select Cellular / Mobile data
- Ensure that you keep your Airalo eSIM selected for mobile data.
How can I set my primary voice line on Samsung devices
Note: Your Airalo eSIM may also appear as an option for Calls and Text Messages on Samsung devices. You can select it there, but this does not enable calls or SMS, because a data-only eSIM has no voice or SMS service. Always select your Main / Primary line for both.
OPTION 1: via Quick Settings Panel
- Swipe down from the top of the screen. (You may need to swipe down again to see the full menu)
- You should be able to see the options Calls, Text Messages, and Mobile Data. Tap on Calls.
- Select your Main / Primary line
- Do the same for SMS/Text Messages
- Ensure that you keep your Airalo eSIM selected for mobile data.
OPTION 2: via Settings
- Go to Settings > Connections > SIM card manager
- Scroll down until you see the Preferred SIM card section
- Tap on Calls.
- Select your Main / Primary line
- Do the same for SMS/Text Messages
- Ensure that you keep your Airalo eSIM selected for mobile data.
How can I set my primary voice line on Pixel devices
Note: Android may let you select your Airalo eSIM for Calls Preference and SMS Preference, but this does not enable calls or SMS, because a data-only eSIM has no voice or SMS service. Always select your Main / Primary line for both.
Please note that the steps below may vary depending on your Pixel model:
- Go to Settings > Network & Internet > SIMS
- Select your Main / Primary line
- Toggle Use SIM to turn it ON (if it's not yet enabled, otherwise, go to the next step)
- Look for Calls Preference and tap on it.
- A window will pop up asking which plan you want to use for calls.
- Select your Main / Primary line
- Do the same on step 3, this time for SMS Preference.
- For Mobile data, ensure your Airalo eSIM is selected.
Once you have followed the above steps, you should have your Main/Primary line set for calls or SMS, and your Airalo eSIMs for mobile data.
If you have issues, please contact us via chat in the app or on the website by clicking the chat bubble.
