eSIM - Terms you need to know

Category: Technology

An eSIM is an "embedded SIM card." It is a chip soldered into your device, allowing you to download data plans to your device directly. An eSIM allows you to activate a cellular plan from your carrier without having to use a physical SIM. Here are some of the key terms that you should know before purchasing an eSIM: Package Details: You'll find information on data, validity, and price within your package details. Data: refers to the total amount of data preloaded onto the card (e.g. 1GB, 3GB, 5GB, etc.). Please note that once your plan is out of data, you must top up your plan or download another package to your device. Validity: refers to the amount of time that preloaded data will be valid for (e.g. seven days, 14 days, 30 days, etc.). Please note that once your validity period expires, you must top up or download another package to your device. Price: refers to the value of that package (e.g. $5, $10, $15, etc.). Within each package, there will be an ' additional information ' section giving you more detail about. Network: The network section will state what provider(s) offer coverage for this plan. It will also note at what speed the coverage is offered (e.g. LTE, 4G, 5G, etc.). Plan Type: As mentioned before, most our eSIM plans are 'data only.' However, within the plan type section, the package offer is clearly stated. Also if the package does offer calling credit, it will be mentioned. Activation Policy: The Activation policy reads, "The validity period starts when the eSIM connects to any supported network/s." or "activate instantly as soon as the eSIM is installed." If your plan activates once it connects to a supported network. In that case, the sim will only become active in that particular region (e.g. A Italian plan with a 7-day validity period will only activate once you are within Italy). If your plan activates instantly, the plan's validity will be active from the moment it is installed. If your plan is structured this way, please wait just before leaving to start the plan. This will minimise downtime and wasted coverage. eKYC: eKYC stands for 'electronically know your customer.' Some countries and regions require you to submit and verify travel documents before downloading a data plan for that region. If your particular plan requires you to perform an eKYC check, kindly make sure you've completed this check before departing in the event of needing to resubmit travel documents. Top-Up Option: Most data plans will allow you to top up your package. You will NOT have to again download and install the eSIM. You can select another plan for the country or region and activate it from the Partner’s app or website. However, if your plan does not have a top-up option, you will have to delete your expired eSIM and download a new package for that country or region. Summary Now you know the basics about eSIMs and how our data plans work. If you have any further questions about how eSIMs work or want to ask us a question, you can always reach out to support@esimkart.shop