Question 1

What is an eSIM?

Accepted Answer

An eSIM is a digital SIM built into your phone — no plastic card to insert. You buy a plan online, scan a QR code, and connect to a local network at your destination, all while keeping your usual SIM in place. See how eSIMs work for the full rundown.

Question 2

Will my phone work with an eSIM?

Accepted Answer

Most phones released since 2018 support eSIM (iPhone XS and newer, recent Pixel and Samsung Galaxy models) as long as they're network-unlocked. To check yours, dial *#06# and look for an EID number, or see our device compatibility guide.

Question 3

How do I install and set up my eSIM?

Accepted Answer

After you order, we email you a QR code — scan it under Settings → Add eSIM while on Wi-Fi, then turn on Data Roaming for the eSIM once you arrive. Our step-by-step setup guide walks through iPhone and Android.

Question 4

Do I need to remove my physical SIM card?

Accepted Answer

No. Your eSIM works alongside your normal SIM, so keep your regular SIM in the phone to receive your usual calls and texts. Just set the eSIM as your mobile data line while you travel.

Question 5

Will I keep my own number and still get my normal calls and texts?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The eSIM is data-only and doesn't change your number — your regular SIM keeps handling calls and texts as usual, and you just switch mobile data to the eSIM. See our guide on using two SIMs at once.

Question 6

When should I install and activate my eSIM — before or after I arrive?

Accepted Answer

Install it as soon as you receive it — installing does not start the plan. Your plan starts automatically the first time the eSIM connects to a network at your destination with Data Roaming switched on. So install before you leave (on Wi-Fi), keep the eSIM's Data Roaming off until you land, then switch it on. On iPhone, also turn off Wi-Fi Assist (Settings → Mobile Service) before installing, so a weak Wi-Fi signal does not start your plan early.

Question 7

Will my plan renew automatically? Can I be charged again?

Accepted Answer

No. Every plan is a one-time purchase for a set amount of data and never renews on its own, so you will never be charged unexpectedly. When your data or validity runs out, you simply buy a new plan or add a top-up if your eSIM supports it.

Question 8

Can I install one eSIM on several devices?

Accepted Answer

No. Each eSIM can be installed on only one device, and most can be installed only once. If you switch phones, you will usually need a new eSIM.

Question 9

Can I use my eSIM as a hotspot to share data?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You can share your eSIM's data with other devices using your phone's Personal Hotspot (iPhone: Settings → Personal Hotspot; Android: Settings → Network & Internet → Hotspot & tethering) — handy for a laptop or a travel companion's phone.

Question 10

How do I check how much data I have left?

Accepted Answer

The most reliable way is your phone's built-in data counter (Settings → Mobile/Cellular Data) — reset the statistics when your plan starts so the figure stays accurate. You can also check the order link we email you.

Question 11

What happens to unused data?

Accepted Answer

Any unused data expires when the plan's validity period ends and cannot be carried over. If your eSIM is rechargeable, you can add a top-up before it expires to keep going.

Question 12

My eSIM will not connect or the internet is slow — what should I do?

Accepted Answer

First, make sure Data Roaming is on for the eSIM and that it's set as your mobile data line, then toggle Airplane mode off and on or restart your phone. If you're still stuck, our troubleshooting guide covers 'No Service', APN, and slow-speed fixes.

Question 13

I see 'Cellular Plans From This Carrier Cannot Be Added' — what does it mean?

Accepted Answer

This almost always means your phone is network-locked to your home carrier, and eSIMs only work on unlocked phones. Contact your carrier to unlock it. If it was unlocked very recently, eSIM support can stay disabled briefly for security — wait a little and try again.

Question 14

Can I make calls or send SMS with my eSIM?

Accepted Answer

Our eSIMs are data-only, so they do not include a number for standard calls or texts. You can still call and message over the internet with apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime or Telegram, and your normal SIM can continue handling regular calls and SMS.

Question 15

Are any websites or apps blocked on eSIM data?

Accepted Answer

No — your eSIM places no restrictions on the sites or apps you use. Occasionally a banking app behaves differently abroad because of its own security checks, not the eSIM. Learn more about eSIM security.

Question 16

Will my eSIM work in a smartwatch?

Accepted Answer

Not yet — our eSIMs work on phones, tablets and laptops, but we do not currently offer plans for standalone smartwatches.

Question 17

Can I reuse the same eSIM on my next trip?

Accepted Answer

Often, yes. If the eSIM covers where you're going and is still installed, you can add a new plan or top-up instead of installing a fresh one. See how to top up for the steps.

Question 18

How does alodata compare with other eSIM providers?

Accepted Answer

alodata focuses on wide country coverage, prepaid data-only plans and support in 20 languages, often at lower prices than unlimited-plan rivals. For a side-by-side breakdown, see alodata vs Airalo.

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