Question 1

What is an eSIM?

Accepted Answer

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card that allows you to activate a cellular plan without using a physical SIM card. It's built directly into your device and can be activated remotely by scanning a QR code. eSIMs are more convenient for travelers as they eliminate the need to swap physical SIM cards and can store multiple profiles.

Question 2

What is an eSIM and how is it different from a physical SIM?

Accepted Answer

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card that's permanently embedded in your device. Unlike traditional physical SIM cards, eSIMs can be programmed remotely to connect to different mobile networks without needing to swap physical cards. This means no more hunting for tiny SIM ejector tools or worrying about losing small SIM cards while traveling.

Question 3

How does an eSIM work?

Accepted Answer

An eSIM works just like a traditional SIM card but is embedded in your device. When you purchase a plan from AlwaySim, you receive a QR code via email. You scan this code using your device's camera, and the eSIM profile is downloaded and activated on your device. The entire process takes about 15 seconds, and you're instantly connected to mobile networks.

Question 4

What are the benefits of using an eSIM?

Accepted Answer

eSIM offers several key benefits: 1) Instant activation without visiting a store or waiting for shipping, 2) No physical SIM card to lose or damage, 3) Ability to store multiple eSIM profiles on one device, 4) Keep your home number active while using local data, 5) More environmentally friendly (no plastic SIM cards), 6) Significantly cheaper than international roaming charges.

Question 5

Which devices support eSIM?

Accepted Answer

Most modern smartphones support eSIM technology. Compatible devices include: iPhone XS, XR, and all newer models (including iPhone 15/16), Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer, Google Pixel 3 and newer, Huawei P40 and newer, Oppo Find X3 Pro and newer, and many other recent flagships. iPad Pro (2018+), iPad Air (2019+), iPad (2019+), and iPad mini (2019+) also support eSIM. Check your device specifications or settings to confirm eSIM capability.

Question 6

How do I know if my device supports eSIM?

Accepted Answer

Most modern smartphones released after 2018 support eSIM. Check your device settings under 'Cellular' or 'Mobile Data' to see if you have an 'Add Cellular Plan' option. For iPhone: Go to Settings → General → About. If you see a Digital SIM or IMEI2 field, your phone supports eSIM. For Android: Go to Settings → About Phone → SIM Status. Look for an EID (eSIM Identifier) number. Alternatively, dial *#06# on your phone. If you see an EID number (32 digits), your device is eSIM compatible.

Question 7

Can I use eSIM if my phone is locked to a carrier?

Accepted Answer

Generally, yes! eSIM functionality is independent of carrier locks in most cases. However, your phone must be carrier-unlocked to use a different carrier's eSIM. If your phone is locked, contact your carrier to unlock it. In the US, carriers are required to unlock phones after your contract ends or device is paid off. Once unlocked, you can use AlwaySim eSIM alongside your locked physical SIM for data.

Question 8

Can I use my regular SIM and eSIM at the same time?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Most devices support dual SIM functionality, allowing you to keep your home number active while using an eSIM for data abroad. This way you can receive calls and texts on your primary number while using local data rates. Most eSIM-compatible devices allow you to use both your physical SIM and eSIM simultaneously.

Question 9

Can I use dual SIM with eSIM?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Most eSIM-compatible devices support dual SIM functionality, allowing you to use both your physical SIM and eSIM simultaneously. This is perfect for travelers - keep your home SIM active for calls and texts, while using AlwaySim eSIM for affordable mobile data. You can easily switch between the two in your device settings.

Question 10

How do I activate my AlwaySim eSIM?

Accepted Answer

Activating your eSIM is simple: 1) Purchase your plan on AlwaySim.com, 2) You'll receive a QR code via email within seconds, 3) On iPhone: Go to Settings → Cellular/Mobile Data → Add eSIM → Scan QR code. On Android: Settings → Network & Internet → Mobile Network → Add Carrier → Scan QR code, 4) Follow the on-screen prompts, 5) Your eSIM will activate in approximately 15 seconds and you're ready to go!

Question 11

How long does eSIM activation take?

Accepted Answer

eSIM activation with AlwaySim is lightning-fast! Once you scan the QR code, the activation process typically takes just 10-15 seconds. You'll receive your QR code via email instantly after purchase, so the entire process from purchase to being online can take less than 2 minutes. This is one of the fastest activation times in the industry.

Question 12

When should I activate my eSIM?

Accepted Answer

You can install the eSIM profile anytime after purchase, but we recommend activating it only when you arrive at your destination to maximize your plan's validity period. Some plans start immediately upon activation, while others activate when you connect to the network in your destination country.

Question 13

Do I need internet to activate my eSIM?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you need an internet connection (WiFi or mobile data) to initially download and activate your eSIM profile. This is why we recommend activating your eSIM before your trip while connected to WiFi, or immediately upon arrival at the airport using free WiFi. Once activated, the eSIM will automatically connect to local mobile networks without needing WiFi.

Question 14

Can I activate my eSIM before I travel?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We recommend activating your eSIM before your trip. You can install the eSIM profile at home using WiFi, but it won't start consuming your data allowance or validity period until you actually connect to the network in your destination country. This ensures you're ready to go the moment you land, with no need to find WiFi at the airport.

Question 15

What if I can't scan the QR code?

Accepted Answer

If you're unable to scan the QR code, you can manually enter the activation details. In your eSIM settings, select 'Enter Details Manually' instead of scanning. You'll need to enter the SM-DP+ address and activation code provided in your email. Alternatively, you can try: 1) Increasing screen brightness, 2) Cleaning your camera lens, 3) Taking a screenshot and scanning from photos, 4) Printing the QR code. If issues persist, contact our 24/7 support.

Question 16

What if I need help during my trip?

Accepted Answer

Our 24/7 customer support team is always available to help you with any connectivity issues or questions about your eSIM plan. We provide support via email and comprehensive online resources at alwaysim.com/support. You can contact us anytime, from anywhere in the world.

Question 17

What happens if I delete my eSIM by mistake?

Accepted Answer

Once an eSIM profile is deleted, it cannot be reinstalled with the same QR code. However, most plans allow you to request a replacement eSIM profile. Contact our support team immediately if this happens, and we'll help you get reconnected as quickly as possible.

Question 18

Which countries does AlwaySim cover?

Accepted Answer

AlwaySim provides coverage in 202 countries worldwide! This includes all major destinations: North America (USA, Canada, Mexico), Europe (all EU countries plus UK, Switzerland, Norway), Asia (Japan, China, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore, India, UAE), Oceania (Australia, New Zealand), South America (Brazil, Argentina, Chile), and Africa (South Africa, Egypt, Morocco). You can check specific country availability on our Countries page.

Question 19

What network carriers does AlwaySim use?

Accepted Answer

AlwaySim partners with Tier-1 premium carriers in each country to ensure the best coverage and speeds. We automatically connect you to the strongest available network. In the US: Verizon, T-Mobile. In Europe: Vodafone, Orange, O2. In Asia: NTT Docomo (Japan), KDDI/au (Japan), SK Telecom (Korea), Singtel (Singapore). All our networks support 4G LTE and 5G where available. Your device will automatically select the best network.

Question 20

What speeds can I expect with AlwaySim?

Accepted Answer

AlwaySim provides full-speed 4G LTE and 5G connectivity (where available and device supports it) up to your plan's high-speed data limit. Expected speeds: 4G LTE: 10-50 Mbps download, 5-20 Mbps upload. 5G: 100-500+ Mbps download, 50-100+ Mbps upload. For unlimited daily plans, after reaching your high-speed limit, speeds are reduced to 512 Kbps-1 Mbps, which is still sufficient for messaging, maps, and light browsing.

Question 21

Does AlwaySim work in rural areas?

Accepted Answer

Coverage in rural areas depends on the local carrier network infrastructure. AlwaySim uses premium Tier-1 carriers with the widest coverage in each country. In developed countries (USA, Europe, Japan, Korea), you'll have good coverage even in most rural areas. In developing countries, coverage is best in cities and major tourist areas. We recommend checking specific coverage maps for your destination on our Countries page.

Question 22

How much do AlwaySim eSIM plans cost?

Accepted Answer

AlwaySim plans start from just $1.26 for basic data plans. Pricing varies based on: 1) Destination country/region, 2) Data allowance (500MB to unlimited), 3) Validity period (1 day to 30 days), 4) Coverage type (single country, regional, or global). For example: USA 1GB/7 days: ~$4.50, Europe 3GB/15 days: ~$12, Global 5GB/30 days: ~$25. We offer transparent pricing with no hidden fees.

Question 23

Are there any hidden fees?

Accepted Answer

No! AlwaySim has completely transparent pricing. The price you see is the price you pay - no hidden fees, no activation charges, no setup costs, no monthly subscriptions. Your purchase includes: the eSIM profile, your data allowance, network access fees, and customer support. The only additional cost would be if you choose to top up or purchase additional data.

Question 24

Can I get a refund if I don't use my eSIM?

Accepted Answer

Yes! AlwaySim offers a hassle-free refund policy. If you haven't activated your eSIM or used any data, you can request a full refund within 7 days of purchase. Once the eSIM is activated or data is used, refunds are not available. However, if you experience technical issues preventing activation, please contact our support team and we'll either help you resolve the issue or provide a refund.

Question 25

Do I need to subscribe or is it a one-time payment?

Accepted Answer

AlwaySim operates on a simple pay-as-you-go model with one-time payments. There are NO subscriptions, NO recurring charges, and NO automatic renewals. You only pay when you purchase a plan, and that's it. When your data or validity expires, you can choose to purchase another plan or top up. This gives you complete control over your spending.

Question 26

Can I keep my phone number with an eSIM?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! This is one of the best features of eSIM. Your eSIM is typically used for mobile data only, so you keep your physical SIM card active for calls and texts on your original number. This dual-SIM setup means you can receive calls/texts on your home number while using AlwaySim eSIM for affordable local data. You won't miss any important calls or texts while traveling.

Question 27

Can I make calls and send texts with AlwaySim eSIM?

Accepted Answer

AlwaySim plans are primarily data-only plans, which is the most cost-effective solution for travelers. However, you can make calls and send texts using internet-based apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, FaceTime, Facebook Messenger, Skype, or Google Voice using your AlwaySim data connection. These apps work great over mobile data and are usually free.

Question 28

Can I use my eSIM as a mobile hotspot?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Most AlwaySim plans support tethering and mobile hotspot functionality. You can share your eSIM connection with other devices like laptops, tablets, or other phones. This is perfect for travelers who need to connect multiple devices. Note: Hotspot usage counts toward your data allowance, and some unlimited plans may have restrictions on tethering.

Question 29

Can I share data or use hotspot with your eSIM plans?

Accepted Answer

Yes! All our eSIM plans support data tethering and hotspot sharing. You can easily set up hotspot sharing to connect your other devices like laptops, tablets, or other phones. Simply enable the hotspot feature in your device settings and share your eSIM data connection with any device that needs internet access.

Question 30

How do I check my data usage?

Accepted Answer

You can monitor your data usage in several ways: 1) Through your device's built-in data usage tracker (Settings → Mobile/Cellular Data → Data Usage), 2) In your AlwaySim account dashboard after logging in, 3) Via the AlwaySim mobile app (if available), 4) By dialing specific USSD codes (varies by carrier). We recommend checking your usage regularly to avoid running out of data. You can always top up if needed.

Question 31

What happens when my data runs out?

Accepted Answer

When you reach your data limit, your connection will be suspended (no overcharges!). You'll receive notifications before running out. You have several options: 1) Purchase a top-up data package from your AlwaySim account, 2) Buy a new plan, 3) Connect to WiFi for internet access, 4) Wait until your next billing cycle if you have a recurring plan. For unlimited daily plans, you'll continue with unlimited slower speeds (512 Kbps-1 Mbps).

Question 32

Can I use multiple eSIMs on one device?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Most modern eSIM-compatible devices can store multiple eSIM profiles (typically 5-10 profiles). However, you can only use one eSIM at a time along with one physical SIM (dual SIM). This is great for frequent travelers - you can have eSIMs for different countries pre-installed and simply switch between them in your settings as you travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Getting Started

Device Compatibility

Activation & Setup

Coverage & Networks

Plans & Pricing

Usage & Features

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