How to Get a Thai Number with eSIM and Use It for WhatsApp, TikTok, and More

In today’s digital age, having a virtual phone number is essential for communication across various platforms like WhatsApp, TikTok, Telegram, and others. Whether you’re traveling, living abroad, or simply want a secondary number, our AIS Sim2Fly Starter eSIM is the perfect solution. It comes with a Thai number and credit, allowing you to register on these popular apps seamlessly.

What is an AIS Sim2Fly eSIM?

An eSIM is an embedded SIM card that you can activate digitally without needing a physical card. The AIS Sim2Fly eSIM provides you with a Thai phone number and preloaded credit, making it ideal for app registrations.

Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Your AIS Sim2Fly eSIM

Purchase and Activate Your eSIM

1. Buy the eSIM: Here.

2. Receive Your QR Code: After purchasing, you’ll receive an email with a QR code to activate your eSIM. Make sure your device is compatible with eSIM technology.

3. Activate the eSIM:

• Go to the “Settings” on your phone.
• Select “Cellular” or “Mobile Data.”
• Choose “Add Cellular Plan” and scan the QR code provided.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the activation.

Register Your eSIM Number on WhatsApp

1. Download WhatsApp: If you haven’t already, download WhatsApp from your app store.

2. Open WhatsApp and start the registration process.

3. Enter Your Thai Number: Input the Thai number you received with your eSIM email. Make sure to include the country code (+66).

4. Verify Your Number: WhatsApp will send a verification code via SMS. Since your eSIM is already active, you’ll receive the code directly to your device.

5. Complete the Setup: Enter the verification code and finalize your profile setup. You’re now ready to use WhatsApp with your new Thai number!

Register on Other Apps Like TikTok and Telegram

The process for registering your eSIM number on TikTok, Telegram, and other apps is similar to WhatsApp:

1. Download the App from your app store.

2. Sign Up using your new Thai number.

3. Verify the Number: Receive and input the verification code sent to your Thai number.

4. Start Using the App with your new virtual number.

Benefits of Using AIS Sim2Fly eSIM

• Convenience: No need to swap out physical SIM cards. Activate your eSIM instantly and manage multiple numbers from one device.

• Local Presence: Maintain a Thai number for business or personal use, no matter where you are in the world.

• Versatility: Use your Thai number across various apps for communication, social media, and more.

Final Thoughts

The AIS Sim2Fly eSIM is a game-changer for anyone looking to stay connected with a Thai number. With easy activation and seamless integration with apps like WhatsApp, TikTok, and Telegram, you can communicate effortlessly, no matter where you are. Get one here at our website .

How to scan an eSIM from a stored photo in iOS 17

iOS 17 introduces a new feature that allows you to scan an eSIM from a stored photo. This is a convenient way to activate an eSIM if you don’t have access to a QR code scanner or if you want to keep a copy of your eSIM QR code on file.

To scan an eSIM from a stored photo in iOS 17, follow these steps:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap Cellular.
3. Tap Add Cellular/Data Plan.
4. Tap Scan QR Code.
5. Tap Open Photos.
6. Select the photo of the eSIM QR code from your library.
7. Tap Scan.

Your iPhone will scan the QR code and activate the eSIM. You should see a message that says “Your eSIM has been activated.”

Tips:

• Make sure that the photo of the eSIM QR code is clear and well-lit.
• If you’re having trouble scanning the QR code, try zooming in or adjusting the brightness of your iPhone’s screen.
• You can also try scanning the QR code from a different angle.

Benefits of scanning an eSIM from a stored photo:

• It’s convenient: You don’t need to have access to a QR code scanner or to print out a copy of your eSIM QR code.
• It’s secure: You can keep a copy of your eSIM QR code on file in case you need to reactivate your eSIM in the future.
• It’s flexible: You can scan an eSIM QR code from any photo, regardless of where or when you took it.

Overall, the ability to scan an eSIM from a stored photo is a valuable new feature in iOS 17. It makes it easier and more convenient to activate and manage eSIMs.

TL;DR

1. Comes with a phone number
2. Long term useable
3. Trusted by seafarers who work worldwide for a living
4. Simple plans
5. From a major carrier
6. Call center support
7. Cheapest plans in Thailand
8. Multi carrier roaming

In an age where staying connected is more important than ever, the competition among eSIM providers is fierce. However, eSIMFly has emerged as a frontrunner, outshining its competitors. Here are eight compelling reasons why eSIMFly’s eSIM is the choice for savvy consumers seeking superior connectivity.

Comes with a Phone Number

Unlike many eSIMs which only provide data services, eSIMFly eSIM comes with a Thailand based +66 phone number. This is invaluable for those who need a reliable way to make and receive calls without relying on internet-based calling services. It can be connected to iMessage, Line, Whatsapp and other chat applications. You can still use your home line via wifi-calling, but having a back up phone number option is always great just in case.

Long-Term Use

eSIMFly lets you keep using the eSIM as long as you keep it valid. With the 90 Day Validity add option over a mobiletopup.com, users can keep the SIM2Fly active for 365 days at a time. Whether you’re a frequent traveler or looking to switch to a more efficient service, eSIMFly is designed for prolonged use, ensuring that your communication needs are covered without constant worrying about renewals.

Trusted by Seafarers

Seafarers need the most reliable communication services, as they work worldwide. The fact that eSIMFly is trusted by seafarers who sail across the globe is a testament to its reliability and global reach. This trust reflects its coverage in more countries that any other major carrier SIM.

Simple Plans

Nobody likes complicated mobile plans that make it hard to understand what you’re actually getting. eSIMFly keeps it simple. With easy-to-get plans, customers can easily find a package that best fits their needs. This simplicity eliminates the guesswork and allows you to focus on what’s most important: staying connected.

Backed by a Major Carrier

When it comes to communication services, reliability is key. eSIMFly is backed by AIS Thailand, a major carrier who was one of the first 1% of tier one carriers in the world to adopt eSIM back in 2019. Thailand knows tourism and Thai carriers know roaming. Think about it – as one of the leading tourist destinations in the world, the worlds carriers knock at Thailand’s door to get access for roaming agreements in the country. With their low cost and high demand, it means the network comes with the assurance of quality and dependable service. This association ensures that eSIMFly customers have access to a robust network with extensive coverage.

Call Center Support

Customer support can make or break the experience with a service provider. eSIMFly’s English speaking call center support ensures that if you face any issues or have any queries, help is just a call away.

Cheapest Plans in Thailand

Because eSIMFly is local to Thailand it offers the cheapest plans in Thailand, making it an unbeatable option for both locals and visitors. You’ll be able to travel like a local anytime you are in Thailand.

Multi-carrier roaming

In countries like the USA, you can be out of luck with certain carriers do not provide coverage on single country plans. With SIM2Fly, in USA you will roam on either T-Mobile or ATT so if you are out of service on one, its not a problem. Several other countries offer similar arrangements.

Conclusion

In summary, eSIMFly’s eSIM comes out on top with its combination of a phone number, long-term usability, trustworthiness among seafarers, simple plans, backing by a major carrier, exceptional call center support, and affordability. Whether you are a global traveler, a resident of Thailand, or someone who just needs dependable mobile connectivity, eSIMFly eSIM is the smart choice. Say goodbye to complicated mobile plans and unreliable services; embrace the future of connectivity with eSIMFly.

July 2023 Supported countries list:

1. Afghanistan
2. Aland Islands
3. Albania
4. Argentina
5. Armenia
6. Australia
7. Austria
8. Azerbaijan
9. Bahrain
10. Bangladesh
11. Belarus
12. Belgium
13. Bhutan
14. Bolivia
15. Bosnia and Herzegovina
16. Brazil
17. Brunei
18. Bulgaria
19. Cambodia
20. Canada
21. Chad
22. Chile
23. China (Including Tibet)
24. Colombia
25. Congo (Democratic Republic of)
26. Congo Republic
27. Costa Rica
28. Croatia
29. Czech Republic
30. Cyprus
31. Denmark
32. Dominican Republic
33. Ecuador
34. Egypt
35. El Salvador
36. England
37. Estonia
38. Faroe Islands
39. Fiji
40. Finland
41. France
42. Gabon
43. Georgia
44. Germany
45. Ghana
46. Gibraltar
47. Greece
48. Greenland
49. Guam
50. Guatemala
51. Guernsey
52. Honduras
53. Hong Kong
54. Hungary
55. Iceland
56. India
57. Indonesia
58. Iran
59. Ireland
60. Isle of Man
61. Israel
62. Italy
63. Japan
64. Jordan
65. Kazakhstan
66. Kenya
67. Kuwait
68. Kyrgyzstan
69. Laos
70. Latvia
71. Liechtenstein
72. Lithuania
73. Luxembourg
74. Macau
75. Macedonia
76. Madagascar Republic
77. Malawi
78. Malaysia
79. Maldives
80. Malta
81. Mauritius
82. Mexico
83. Moldova
84. Monaco
85. Mongolia
86. Montenegro
87. Morocco
88. Nauru
89. Nepal
90. Netherlands
91. New Zealand
92. Nicaragua
93. Nigeria
94. Northern Ireland
95. Northern Cyprus
96. Norway
97. Oman
98. Pakistan
99. Panama
100. Papua New Guinea
101. Paraguay
102. Peru
103. Philippines
104. Poland
105. Portugal
106. Puerto Rico
107. Qatar
108. Reunion
109. Romania
110. Russia
111. San Marino
112. Saudi Arabia
113. Scotland
114. Senegal
115. Serbia
116. Seychelles
117. Singapore
118. Slovenia
119. Slovak Republic
120. Solomon Islands
121. South Africa
122. South Korea
123. Spain
124. Sri Lanka
125. Svalbard and Jan Mayen
126. Swaziland (now Eswatini)
127. Sweden
128. Switzerland
129. Taiwan
130. Tajikistan
131. Tanzania
132. Tonga
133. Tunisia
134. Turkey
135. Uganda
136. Ukraine
137. United Arab Emirates
138. United States of America
139. United States Virgin Islands
140. Uruguay
141. Uzbekistan
142. Vanuatu
143. Vatican City
144. Vietnam
145. Wales
146. Western Samoa (now Samoa)

The enchanting continent of Europe beckons travelers with its rich history, diverse cultures, and stunning landscapes. With so many destinations to choose from, planning a European trip can be overwhelming. One key factor to consider is connectivity during your travels. With the advent of eSIM technology, staying connected has never been easier. In this post, we’ll explore how you can use the Orange Holiday eSIM to stay connected in over 30 European destinations, including France, Spain, Greece, Italy, and more.

The Orange Holiday Europe plan has no registration needed—simply scan and install the eSIM while you have a data connection with your unlocked phone and the Orange network or roaming partner will connect to a local mobile provider anywhere in Europe.

Orange Telecom

Orange is the largest telecommunications operator in France, and it is also a major player in the European telecommunications market. The company has a presence in 26 countries, and it is a leading provider of mobile, fixed-line, and Internet services.

Plan Comparison

Here is a comparison of the Orange Holiday eSIM 8GB and 20GB plans:

The main difference between the two plans is the amount of data you get during the first 14 days. The 8GB plan gives you 8GB of data, while the 20GB plan gives you 20GB of data. If you think you’ll use more than 8GB of data, then the 20GB plan is a better option.

Both plans include unlimited calls and texts, 4G roaming in 30 European countries, and up to 4G speeds.

The 8GB plan is a good option if you’re looking for a budget-friendly plan with enough data for light use. The 20GB plan is a good option if you’re looking for a plan with more data for heavy use.

This SIM card comes with a French phone number. Please note you will need to complete a Know Your Customer (KYC) process to keep using it after the first 30 days as per French law. SIM is valid for 6 months renewable depending on the recharge chosen.

Home Line concerns

Many people worry about not getting calls or messages on their home line while traveling. Most quality telecoms now offer WiFi Calling feature which essential routes any calls or texts to your home number vial the internet to your device. That means all you need is a data connection and you’ll get access to your messages, texts (iMessage, Line) and calls. For your European trip, set your Orange Holiday eSIM to “Default Data Line” and leave your home number as “Default Voice Line” with iOS.

Most visited European tourist countries

1. France
2. Spain
3. Italy
4. United Kingdom
5. Germany
6. Greece
7. Austria
8. Netherlands
9. Portugal
10. Croatia

Orange Telecom Support

There are a few ways to contact Orange Telecom support:

• You can call Orange Telecom’s customer service line at 1-800-ORANGE-1 (1-800-672-6431).
• You can chat with an Orange Telecom representative online.
• You can visit an Orange Telecom store.
• You can send an email to Orange Telecom’s customer service department.

Orange Telecom’s customer service hours are 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

If you are calling Orange Telecom from outside of the United States, you can use the following international customer service numbers:

• Canada: 1-866-222-2384
• United Kingdom: 0800-048-8888
• France: 09-69-36-39-00
• Spain: 900-101-010
• Poland: 800-020-020
• Slovakia: 0800-123-456
• Romania: 031-432-4567
• Belgium: 0800-92-000
• Switzerland: 0800-800-053
• Germany: 0800-1010041
• Italy: 800-910-111
• Netherlands: 0800-020-020
• Portugal: 800-200-123
• Czech Republic: 800-101-010
• Hungary: 1-800-800-014
• Greece: 210-600-0100
• Turkey: 444-03-72
• Bulgaria: 0700-123-456
• Croatia: 0800-00200
• Serbia: 0800-000-123
• Bosnia and Herzegovina: 0800-000-123
• Macedonia: 0800-300-300
• Montenegro: 0800-300-300
• Kosovo: 0800-123-456
• Albania: 0800-000-123
• Sweden: 08-505-000-12
• Denmark: 80-80-00-00
• Norway: 800-10-100
• Finland: 0800-10-100

If you are calling Orange Telecom from a country that is not listed above, you can use the following international toll-free number:

• +33-9-69-36-39-00

Orange Telecom also offers a live chat feature on its website. To access live chat, you will need to provide your name, email address, and the reason for your contact. A representative will then be connected to you.

The Philippines has seen a significant increase in demand for eSIM digital SIM cards since the launch in 2019. With the availability of AIS SIM2Fly eSIMs, travelers and seafarers now have access to a wider range of payment options when purchasing their eSIM plans from Philippines. The new peso (PHP) payment options Union Bank (UB), Bank of Philippine Islands (PBI) and PayMaya that are now available for purchasing AIS SIM2Fly eSIM as well as other eSIMs.

The digital AIS SIM2Fly SIM card

AIS SIM2Fly is a new eSIM provider that offers a range of flexible and affordable eSIM plans for consumers in the Philippines. With the launch of this new eSIM provider, consumers now have access to a wider range of payment options when purchasing their eSIM plans, including UB, BPI and PayMaya.

UB Payment Option for AIS SIM2Fly eSIM

UB is a popular online bank and payment platform that is widely used by consumers in the Philippines. With the addition of UB as a payment option for AIS SIM2Fly eSIM, consumers now have the convenience of using their UB account to purchase their eSIM plans via direct debit. This payment option is fast, secure and easy to use for Peso payments.

BPI Payment Option for AIS SIM2Fly eSIM

BPI is one of the largest banks in the Philippines and is a trusted financial institution for many consumers. With the addition of BPI as a payment option for AIS SIM2Fly eSIM, account holders now have the security and reliability of using their BPI account to purchase their eSIM plans. This payment option is quick, efficient and secure, and easy to understand..

PayMaya Payment Option for AIS SIM2Fly eSIM

PayMaya is a popular e-wallet platform that is widely used by consumers in the Philippines. With the addition of PayMaya as a payment option for AIS SIM2Fly eSIM, consumers now have the convenience of using their PayMaya account to purchase their eSIM plans.

The Benefits of Using These New Peso Payment Options for AIS SIM2Fly eSIM

The new peso payment options UB, BPI and PayMaya provide a range of benefits for consumers when purchasing their AIS SIM2Fly eSIM plans. These payment options offer the convenience of using a familiar and trusted platform to purchase their eSIM plans. They also simplify any need to convert out of a home currency.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the new peso payment options UB, BPI and PayMaya offer consumers in the Philippines a wider range of options when purchasing their AIS SIM2Fly eSIM plans. These payment options become available when the location or billing address country is set to Philippines. With the addition of these new payment options, consumers can now enjoy a faster and more efficient purchasing process when buying their eSIM data plans from eSIM2fly.com.

Follow our twitter or FB feed for more updates.

Enjoy Seamless Mobile Internet in Vietnam with Vinaphone’s eSIM

Vietnam is a vibrant and bustling country with plenty of opportunities for adventure and exploration. However, staying connected with friends, family, and work can be challenging when traveling abroad. That’s why Vinaphone, one of the leading mobile network providers in Vietnam, has introduced a new and innovative solution: the 60 GB, 15 Day eSIM for Vietnam. This eSIM is designed to provide seamless mobile internet connection for travelers and residents alike, without the hassle of finding a physical SIM card.

What is an eSIM? An eSIM, or Embedded SIM, is a type of SIM card that is embedded into a device, such as a smartphone or tablet. Unlike traditional SIM cards, which can be removed and replaced, eSIMs are permanent and cannot be removed or changed. This makes them ideal for travelers or people who frequently switch between devices, as they can easily connect to a new network simply by changing the settings on their device.

Why choose Vinaphone’s 60 GB, 15 Day eSIM for Vietnam?

• 60 GB of high-speed mobile data for 15 days
• Easy activation
• No need for physical SIM card, saving time and hassle
• Affordable price for a large data allowance
• High-quality network coverage throughout Vietnam

How to get started with Vinaphone’s eSIM?

1. Purchase the eSIM
2. Scan the QR code
3. Activate the eSIM while in Vietnam
4. Enjoy seamless mobile internet connection in Vietnam

Frequently Asked Questions:

• What happens if I exceed 60 GB of data during the 15 days?
  • Once the 60 GB limit is reached, you will have to purchase another data package or wait until the 15-day period has ended.
• Can I use the eSIM with a device that is not compatible with eSIM technology?
  • No, the eSIM can only be used with eSIM-compatible devices or esim.me.
• What if I have trouble activating the eSIM through the device?
  • If you have trouble activating the eSIM through the device, you can contact us customer service for assistance.

The AIS SIM2Fly now reaches another major milestone adding 20 more countries and territories bringing the total supported counties from 124 to 144 supported countries and territories.

AIS SIM2Fly product is a single eSIM or SIM that provides multi-county data at 2 main price points.

Myanmar drops off

Notably Myanmar has dropped off the list, likely due to instability in the country, operator DTAC exiting the country and the government extending control over their domestic telecoms. The SIM2Fly SIM was a choice to bypass domestic content blocking for many citizens during the 2021 coup, but AIS was later cut off by the government.

Newly added countries for AIS SIM2Fly

AIS SIM2fly added support for these countries as of November 2022:

1. Afghanistan 
2. Bhutan 
3. Bolivia 
4. Bosnia and Herzegovina 
5. Cyprus 
6. Dominica 
7. Gibraltar 
8. Greenland 
9. Guernsey 
10. Isle of Man 
11. Mauritius 
12. Mongolia 
13. Nauru 
14. Senegal 
15. Seychelles 
16. Solomon Islands 
17. Swaziland 
18. Tajikistan 
19. US Virgin Islands 
20. Vanuatu 

AIS does not make public a list of their current partner networks, but previous partnerships are still available.

Countries with 5G support for AIS SIM2Fly

In addition to 20 new locales for AIS SIM2Fly users, AIS has also listed the destinations were 5G is available. There are now 61 countries and teritores where AIS SIM2Fly users can use 5G while roaming in the country.

1. Australia
2. Austria
3. Bahrain
4. Belgium
5. Bulgaria
6. Canada
7. China (including Tibet)
8. Croatia
9. Czech Republic
10. Cyprus
11. Denmark
12. England
13. Estonia
14. Finland
15. France
16. Germany
17. Greece
18. Hong Kong
19. Hungary
20. Iceland
21. Indonesia
22. Ireland
23. Israel
24. Italy
25. Japan
26. Kuwait
27. Latvia
28. Luxembourg
29. Malta
30. Netherlands
31. New Zealand
32. Northern
33. Ireland
34. Norway
35. Oman
36. Philippines
37. Poland
38. Portugal
39. Qatar
40. Romania
41. Puerto Rico
42. Russia
43. San Marino
44. Saudi Arabia
45. Scotland
46. Singapore
47. Slovak Republic
48. Slovenia
49. South Africa
50. South Korea
51. Spain
52. Sweden
53. Switzerland
54. Taiwan
55. Turkiye
56. United Arab Emirates
57. United State of America
58. Vatican City
59. Vietnam
60. Virgin Islands
61. Wales

Stats on the newly added countries

Here are some stats on the 20 new supported counties for the AIS SIM2fly.

Major airports in the countries

• Afghanistan: Kabul International Airport
• Bhutan: Paro Airport
• Bolivia: Viru Viru International Airport
• Bosnia and Herzegovina: Sarajevo International Airport
• Cyprus: Larnaca International Airport and Paphos International Airport
• Dominica: Melville Hall Airport
• Gibraltar: Gibraltar Airport
• Greenland: Kangerlussuaq Airport and Nuuk Airport
• Guernsey: Guernsey Airport
• Isle of Man: Isle of Man Airport
• Mauritius: Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport
• Mongolia: Chinggis Khaan International Airport
• Nauru: Nauru International Airport
• Senegal: Dakar-Yoff-Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport
• Seychelles: Seychelles International Airport
• Solomon Islands: Honiara International Airport
• Swaziland: King Mswati III International Airport
• Tajikistan: Dushanbe International Airport
• US Virgin Islands: Cyril E. King Airport
• Vanuatu: Bauerfield International Airport

Countries by size

1. Mongolia (1,564,116 square miles)
2. Greenland (836,330 square miles)
3. Bolivia (424,165 square miles)
4. Afghanistan (252,072 square miles)
5. Senegal (196,722 square miles)
6. Tajikistan (143,100 square miles)
7. Bosnia and Herzegovina (19,741 square miles)
8. Bhutan (14,824 square miles)
9. Solomon Islands (11,157 square miles)
10. Cyprus (9,251 square miles)
11. Swaziland (6,704 square miles)
12. Vanuatu (4,706 square miles)
13. Mauritius (720 square miles)
14. Dominica (290 square miles)
15. Seychelles (173 square miles)
16. Guernsey (30 square miles)
17. Nauru (8.1 square miles)

Language Spoken

• Afghanistan: Pashto and Dari
• Bhutan: Dzongkha
• Bolivia: Spanish
• Bosnia and Herzegovina: Bosnian, Croatian, and Serbian
• Cyprus: Greek and Turkish
• Dominica: English
• Gibraltar: English
• Greenland: Greenlandic (Inuit) and Danish
• Guernsey: English
• Isle of Man: English
• Mauritius: English, French, and Mauritian Creole
• Mongolia: Khalkha Mongol and English
• Nauru: Nauruan and English
• Senegal: French
• Seychelles: French and Seychellois Creole
• Solomon Islands: English and Melanesian Pidgin
• Swaziland: Swati and English
• Tajikistan: Tajik
• US Virgin Islands: English
• Vanuatu: Bislama, English, and French

Configure and manage your embedded SIM on your Google Pixel phone

When you first switch on your Pixel phone, follow the on-screen instructions to set up your embedded SIM:

• Go to the Settings app on your phone.
• Select Network & Internet from the menu.
• Select Mobile Network from the menu.
• Select “Download a SIM” instead.
• Press Next.
• Then your embedded SIM is ready to use.

Switch back and forth between your eSIM and your traditional SIM card

You can move between cell networks if you set up your eSIM and simultaneously have a physical SIM card from a different provider.

• Go to the Settings app on your phone.
• Select Network & Internet from the menu.
• Select Mobile Network from the menu.
• Select Advanced.
• Select the name of the carrier that you want to use.
• Toggle the switch!

If you are interested in a list of more phones that enable the use of embedded SIMs, read our article here!

The iPhone 14 announced at the Apple event Sept 7, 2022 will sell a dual eSIM version of the device in the USA and be the first iPhone with no physical SIM card tray. This announcement sent interest in eSIMs thru the roof and “eSIM” became a trending topic on twitter.

But this launch isn’t with out controversy. Many technophiles called out issues with privacy, travel and lack of carrier support. Let’s look at some the the main pain points with eSIM.

History of eSIM

The eSIM was first offered late 2018, in the iPhone Xr, Xs and Xs Max. On Android, the Pixel, Motorola and Samsung joined the devices offering eSIM. These were also the first dual SIM iPhones, allowing more 2 lines in one device.

Till now, there are now over 80 handset models supporting eSIM. GSMArena has been tracking eSIM supported handsets.

Now in late 2022, eSIM has been available for 4 years but there still are issues that remain to be solved.

Problems with eSIM

Switching devices

For those used to the freedom of switching physical SIM cards between devices, the pain of the eSIM being installed on a single device, is one of the biggest complaints. In addition, the installation string contained in the QR code is valid for a single time SIM profile download request. This means the QR code is single use, nothing like its multi-use physical SIM counterpart.

Users who loose or upgrade a device currently have to contact their wireless carrier to request a re-issue of a new single use code to re-download their eSIM profile. As anyone knows, having to make a customer service request with your carrier can be a slow and painful process.

The good news is that there are improvements coming. Starting in iOS 16, Apple and certain carriers will support bluetooth swapping eSIMs between devices. Additionally, the same process will work to move a physical sim, to an eSIM profile ( but unlikely to work in reverse). Apple is calling this process eSIM Quick Transfer.

International Travel

Another criticism of eSIM is coming from those who expect to travel to countries without eSIM offerings. Many travelers today expect to land at an international airport and purchase a local SIM card. If the local carriers do not offer pre-paid eSIMs, the iPhone14 will be unable to use a local wireless Carrier in this case.

Wether or not this is an issue for your next trip comes down to entirely which country you will visit. There will be some countries like China where you will not be able to get a local phone number without a physical SIM. This might prevent you from using some apps that require a local phone number, and if this is your destination – hang onto that trade in.

Privacy

Some users have raised privacy concerns however privacy issues should be a wash. While there are likely more registration requirements for eSIM users, users are no longer geography location constrained and you can get a data eSIM digitally from providers around the word. Additionally users can easily find data plans without the requirements of full registration. There is no significant change to privacy with regards to a eSIM chip vs. an eSIM tray.

eSIM Benefits

The most obvious benefit is the reduction in waste in digitizing the functions of a plastic SIM. Here are a few other benefits.

Global choice and competition

With eSIM, you now procure your SIM online via an app or website. MNOs, MVNOs and resellers no longer have the walled gardens and physical boarders to protect their businesses. Digital, online delivery means you will have so much choice in picking the right plan for you.

Below are all the counties with Operators offering eSIMs, in the first 4 the technologies existence years of existence.

And for the countries not yet supported, there are many offerings for low cost roaming that will work in more than one country.

For example China does not support eSIM, yet the AIS eSIM2fly eSIM Asian Plan works in 30 Asian countries including China. While you will not get a local Chinese phone number, you get a data plan that will keep you online and free from the Chinese Firewall during your stay.

Travel eSIM options

As mentioned above, the amount of choice in eSIM is amazing. When it comes to travel with eSIM, we have to discern between to kinds of products – local SIM cards and multi-Country. Traditionally local SIM plans would be preferred, as they offer a local number and competitive data rates.

Local eSIMs with phone number

Support for eSIM versions of local pre-paid cards usually has to come from the major carriers in the countries. Major tourist counties like France and Thailand have local eSIM offerings like the Orange Travel eSIM or the DTAC Thailand Tourist eSIM that work just like their physical SIM counterparts. The main difference is they can be ordered online and delivered digitally.

Local eSIMs without phone number

If you don’t need a local number and happy to just have fair priced data, well the eSIM choice is plentiful.

For example here are the results for an eSIM search for Japan from esimdb.com.

Multiple sellers in various validity lengths, data amounts and prices.

Multiple sim profiles

One of the best things for travelers is being able to digitally keep multiple eSIM profiles on their device ready for use. How many? We’ve seen numbers as high as 10, but there is really no limit in storing these profiles. Of course you can only have 2 ACTIVE eSIMs at one time, but you can activate any of the inactive eSIMs when ever needed.

Summary

The eSIM conversion is coming. At least to the West. The only thing in the way of wider adoption is China and its control of Chinese handset makers. Reluctance by Beijing to allow full eSIM support is mysterious, and we may well see the debate over eSIM support become a political power struggle.

Travel updates for entering Thailand

Travelling post-pandemic frenzy is definitely looking different in Thailand, and we are here to provide you with all the relevant travel updates you will need before booking a trip to this beautiful southeast Asian destination.

• Thailand no longer requires the Thailand Pass registration for all travellers.
• You will only be required to show Proof of Vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result to enter Thailand.
• For vaccinated individuals, proof of vaccination is required.
• Unvaccinated individuals will need to present proof of a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours of the flight date.
• Currently TM70 entry form is suspended, saving entry time.
• Wearing a mask is the norm in all public places.

Necessary documents to travel with

• Passport valid for at least 6 months
• Visa (if required)
• Travel insurance (which may be purchased here)
• Flight Itinerary
• Hotel booking confirmation
• Proof of vaccination (if vaccinated)
• Negative COVID-19 test result, no more than 72 hours-old (if unvaccinated).

eSIM for Thailand – why?

Why not get connected the moment you land? With an eSIM purchased in advance, you can switch on your data just after touch down, like the locals.

It is inevitable to need to stay connected throughout our travels, especially in a foreign country like Thailand in which we will rely on virtual mapping and communication services to get around. eSIMs, or embedded SIMs, serve all the same purposes as physical SIMs, except they are completely virtual! You would simply purchase one online from a phone carrier in Thailand, which we wrote a detailed article about here, and after receiving a QR code to scan, you could easily install a connection on your phone without having interacted with an actual vendor.

For COVID-19 travel updates in different countries, check out our newest article here!