Expats know how important it is to stay connected with their country of origin and their new country of residence, whether for professional or personal reasons. eSIM technology appears to be the perfect answer to the needs of people who are constantly on the move. In this article, we’ll explain why and how eSIMs have become popular in recent years, and how they work. We’ll also look at the benefits of this technology for expats, to help you choose the right eSIM card for your needs.
What is an eSIM?
To better understand eSIM technology, let’s first look at what a traditional SIM card is. A SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) card is a small chip in our mobile phones that stores information about our mobile phone operator and our telephone number. When we travel abroad, we generally need to change SIM cards to avoid high roaming charges.
In contrast, an eSIM (Embedded Subscriber Identity Module) is a digital version of the traditional SIM card, integrated directly into a compatible device. This means that it is no longer necessary to physically remove the SIM chip in order to switch from one operator to another. Instead, you can simply download and activate a new eSIM plan in a few minutes.
Device compatibility with eSIM cards
Before you can buy an eSIM card, it’s essential to check that your device is compatible. Although this technology is rapidly gaining in popularity, not all phones and tablets are yet compatible with eSIMs. Communication devices that support this feature include the iPhone (XR and above), the Samsung Galaxy range (S20 and above) and some smart watches such as the Apple Watch.
If you’re not sure whether or not your device is compatible, the best way to check is to visit the manufacturer’s website or contact their customer support.
You can also consult our list of devices compatible with our eSIMs.
The benefits of eSIMs for expats
As mentioned above, eSIM cards offer a number of benefits to expats, particularly those who travel frequently or live in different countries. Here are some of those benefits:
- Flexibility and ease of use: eSIM cards make it easy to change plans and operators at any time, wherever you are. No need to change your SIM chip or visit a local operator: just a few clicks on your phone to choose a new subscription and you’re ready to go.
- Savings on roaming costs: Roaming charges are often high, especially if you travel frequently. With an eSIM it’s no longer a problem, as you can choose a local plan for the country you are visiting. This means you can take advantage of low rates and avoid unpleasant surprises in your bill at the end of the month.
- Fast and reliable connection: eSIMs work on fast, reliable 4G or 5G networks, guaranteeing excellent coverage wherever you are. No more searching for free Wi-Fi hotspots with slow connections, as may have been the case in the past, most of which are not secure.
How do I choose the best eSIM package?
Now that you’ve discovered the benefits of eSIM cards, how do you know which offer is best suited to your needs? Here are a few tips to help you make the right decision:
- Plan duration and conditions: Depending on your needs, you may want to opt for a monthly, weekly or even daily plan. Make sure you choose a plan that suits your needs and check the conditions of use to avoid any misunderstandings.
- Cost: Obviously, cost is an important factor in choosing your eSIM. Carefully compare the prices of the different subscriptions to find the one that offers the best value for money.
Now you know how to find the ideal eSIM for your trips abroad!
With technology like eSIMs constantly evolving, it can be difficult to keep abreast of all the latest developments. However, expats have much to gain from this innovation in mobile telecommunications, from flexibility to savings on roaming, not to mention a fast, reliable connection. In short, if you’re looking for a practical solution to stay connected when travelling abroad, consider switching to an eSIM card with Orange Travel and enjoy a simplified experience. Good luck with your adventures!
