How It Works

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM built into your device that lets you connect to local mobile networks without a physical SIM card. Once you purchase a Simply eSIMS plan, you receive a QR code by email. Scan it in your device settings to install the eSIM profile and get instant data access — no SIM swapping, no store visits, and no waiting for delivery. The eSIM profile sits alongside your existing SIM, so your phone number, calls, and texts remain completely unaffected. You can hold multiple eSIM profiles on one device and switch between them as needed. eSIM is supported on iPhone XS and later, Samsung Galaxy S20 and later, Google Pixel 3 and later, and most modern unlocked Android devices. Your device must be carrier-unlocked to use a third-party eSIM plan.

Yes. Simply eSIMS plans are data-only, so your existing phone number stays fully active for calls and texts on your primary SIM the entire time you are using the eSIM. You run both SIMs simultaneously — your home number handles voice and SMS while the eSIM provides mobile data abroad. WhatsApp, iMessage, FaceTime, and all other data-based apps work over the eSIM data connection. Most modern devices let you set the default data line to your eSIM in Settings › Mobile Data. You may also need to enable Data Roaming on the eSIM line when you arrive at your destination — this is a one-time setting that tells the device to use the eSIM for data abroad. Without this step, the eSIM will show as connected in settings but will not deliver internet access.

Yes, your device must be carrier-unlocked before you can install and use a Simply eSIMS plan. A carrier-locked phone is restricted to one network operator and will reject eSIM profiles from any other provider. To check if your device is unlocked, insert a SIM from a different carrier — if it connects successfully, your device is unlocked. If your device is still locked, contact your current carrier to request an unlock; most operators will unlock a device that has completed its contract term or is fully paid off. Unlocking is usually free, and most carriers process requests within 24–72 hours. Once unlocked, you can install any compatible eSIM plan and connect to local networks abroad without restriction. Not sure if your device supports eSIM? Use our compatibility checker at simplyesims.com/esim-compatibility-checker/.

Yes. Most eSIM-compatible devices support Dual SIM operation, letting you run your physical SIM and a Simply eSIMS eSIM profile at the same time. Your physical SIM handles calls and texts on your home number while the eSIM provides mobile data abroad — there is no need to remove or swap anything. On iPhone, go to Settings › Mobile Data and select your Simply eSIMS plan as the active data line. On Android, go to Settings › Network & Internet › SIM cards and assign data to the eSIM. You must also toggle Data Roaming on for the eSIM line once you arrive at your destination, otherwise the eSIM will appear connected in settings but will not deliver internet access. This setting only needs to be enabled once per eSIM profile.

Your data plan activates the first time your device connects to a mobile network at your destination — not at the moment of purchase or installation. This means you can buy and install your eSIM days or even weeks before you travel without losing any validity. The countdown timer only begins when you actually start using mobile data abroad. We strongly recommend installing the eSIM at home over a Wi-Fi connection before you depart, so you can confirm it is installed correctly and avoid any setup delays on arrival. If you have Wi-Fi at your destination before you need mobile data, you can postpone activation further. Validity periods across Simply eSIMS plans range from 1 day to 30 days, and are shown clearly on each product page.

When your data allowance runs out, the eSIM stops providing internet access, but your voice and SMS on your primary SIM remain completely unaffected. Depending on your destination plan, you may be able to purchase a top-up directly from your Simply eSIMS account or app. If a top-up is not available, you can purchase a new eSIM plan for the same destination and install it alongside the existing profile — most devices support multiple eSIM profiles stored simultaneously. Importantly, do not delete your installed eSIM profile when data runs out. QR codes are strictly single-use and cannot be reinstalled or re-scanned once the profile is removed from your device. For refunds on unused, unactivated plans, email support@simplyesims.com with your order number and we will process it promptly.