How does esimNB eSIM work, and how do you use it?
An eSIM is a digital SIM card. It works just like a traditional SIM, without having to insert a physical card into your phone.
If your phone supports eSIM, it can connect to a mobile network without a physical SIM card.
Think of it as adding a temporary data plan to your phone. Your existing SIM card continues to work as usual.
The experience is like connecting to Wi-Fi. You can still make calls and send texts with your existing SIM card, and use WhatsApp as usual.
Buy an eSIMHow to install and use your eSIM
The entire eSIM installation process takes place on your phone’s screen.
Once you have installed the eSIM and activated your data plan, it automatically connects your device to the fastest local mobile network at your destination, with 5G speeds.
1. Buy a plan
After buying a plan, download the esimNB app and open My eSIMs.
2. Install your eSIM
Scan the QR code or tap Install eSIM for one-tap installation, then follow the on-screen instructions step by step.
3. Automatic activation
That’s it! Your data activates automatically when you arrive at your destination.
*Automatic installation is supported on iOS 17.4 or later and Android 10 or later.
After purchase, your eSIM will arrive in the esimNB app and your email inbox within seconds.
Buy an eSIMHow esimNB fits your trip
| Travelers | The problem | esimNB solution |
|---|---|---|
| Short-trip travelers | Airport SIM queues and fiddly card swaps. | Install before you leave. Get online when you arrive. |
| First-time eSIM users | Unsure about compatibility or setup. | Device checks, installation guides and support. |
| Budget travelers | Expensive roaming and travel data. | 30% cheaper than the big brands, with the same experience. |
| Travelers keeping their number | Need travel data without losing access to calls and texts. | Use esimNB for data. Keep your SIM for calls and texts, and your WhatsApp number. |
| Business travelers | Need to get a laptop online while traveling. | Share your data with your laptop via hotspot. |
| Couples and families | Several devices need internet access. | Share your plan’s data via hotspot. |
| Frequent travelers | Tired of swapping SIMs for every trip. | Reuse your eSIM with supported top-ups. |
| Travelers staying longer | The trip continues, but the data runs out. | Add more data or buy a new plan. |
| Last-minute travelers | No time to wait for a physical SIM. | Receive your eSIM in seconds. Install with an internet connection. |
Why choose our eSIM
Over 30% cheaper than the big brands, with the same experience
10GB · 30 days · USD
Networks
- esimNB
- $12.00(−55.5%)
- Networks: China Mobile
- Airalo
- $26.50
- Networks: China Unicom
- Nomad
- $19.00
- Networks: China Unicom, China Telecom
- Ubigi
- $17.00
- Networks: China Telecom
- Saily
- $26.99
- Networks: China Telecom, China Unicom
China Mobile is China’s largest telecommunications operator.
Reuse the same eSIM
To top up, choose a plan and pay. Your data allowance and plan validity are then updated.
Even when your data runs out, there’s no need to reinstall the eSIM, scan another QR code or change your phone settings.
High-speed data, with no speed caps
Our data plans support 5G with no speed caps.
There are no speed caps on hotspot sharing either.
The advantages of eSIM over a physical SIM
No more SIM ejector pins when you travel
Before
Traveling abroad meant ordering a SIM card in advance and waiting for delivery, or queuing to buy one at the airport.
You then had to find a SIM ejector pin, remove your home SIM without losing it and insert the travel SIM.
Now
Scan a QR code on your phone or buy a data plan in the app, and it downloads in seconds.
You can switch networks before landing, while you’re still on the plane, and message your friends as soon as you arrive.
Store several SIMs on one phone and switch as needed
Before
With room for at most two SIM cards, your phone couldn’t fit another work number or data SIM.
Now
With eSIM, you can save several numbers on your phone, much like downloading apps.
You may only use one or two at a time, but you can switch between them in Settings with a tap.
There’s no need to keep swapping cards or carry spare SIMs and a storage case.
Greater security if your phone is lost or stolen
Before
If your phone was stolen, someone could remove your SIM card and put it in their own phone.
They could then receive your verification codes and even try to change your account passwords.
Now
An eSIM is built into your phone, so a thief cannot physically remove it.
With a lock-screen passcode in place, they cannot access your number. It’s safer, and it also helps your phone stay online for location tracking after it’s lost.
Protect your privacy with an eSIM you can use for one trip
Before
Buying a SIM card meant showing proof of identity.
You had to pay a monthly subscription to keep using it, and couldn’t simply throw it away when you no longer needed it.
Now
Buying an eSIM requires no identity verification or linked bank card.
After your trip, you can delete the eSIM without worrying about hidden charges.
When is the best time to buy and install an eSIM?
First-time users: buy and install 3–7 days before travel
Give yourself enough time to get help from customer support if you run into any setup issues, so you can travel with peace of mind.
Experienced users: buy and install 1–2 days before departure
If you’re familiar with the process, buying and installing your eSIM takes less than 5 minutes in total.
Where is the best place to install it?
- Best option: at home
- We strongly recommend installing your eSIM at home before departure, using a stable Wi-Fi connection.
- Alternative: at the departure airport
- If you’re short on time, use airport Wi-Fi or mobile data to install it before your flight.
- After landing
- You can also install it after you arrive by connecting to airport or hotel Wi-Fi.
esimNB eSIM works with iOS and Android
- Compatibility
iPhone models from the iPhone XS series onward support eSIM.
U.S. models of iPhone 14 and later use eSIM only and no longer have a physical SIM tray.
- eSIM adoption
Apple is a major force behind the adoption of eSIM technology.
It continues to expand eSIM use across the iPhone range, accelerating the move away from physical SIM cards.
- Software
iOS 17.4 and later support one-tap eSIM installation through compatible carrier apps, without scanning a QR code.
You can also install an eSIM by scanning a QR code or entering an activation code manually.
- Multiple eSIMs
An iPhone can store eight or more eSIMs.
iPhone 13 and later models support two active eSIMs at the same time.
Get an eSIM data plan
Find the right mobile data plan for your next trip. Explore our destinations.
Buy an eSIMFrequently asked questions (FAQ)
How do I scan a QR code that’s on my own phone?
On an iPhone, press and hold the QR code to add the eSIM directly.
You can also display the code on another device and scan it, or use one-tap installation in the esimNB app.
Do I need to change my WhatsApp number?
No. WhatsApp keeps your existing number, and your chat history and contacts stay the same.
You can continue using WhatsApp to keep in touch with family and friends.
Why do I need to turn on data roaming?
Travel eSIMs usually connect through local partner networks at your destination, so data roaming must be on for internet access.
Using data from your esimNB plan does not incur extra roaming charges.
Do I have to download the app?
No. You can buy, install and manage your eSIM directly on the esimNB website.
You can also use the app. Choose whichever works best for you.
Should I install my eSIM before departure or after arrival?
We recommend installing it before departure with a stable Wi-Fi connection.
Once you arrive, select esimNB as your mobile data line and connect to the network.
Do I need to remove my original SIM card?
No. An eSIM is a digital SIM card that can work alongside your existing physical SIM.
Keep your original number for calls and texts while using esimNB for mobile data.
Can I still make calls and receive texts while using esimNB?
esimNB offers data-only plans, without traditional voice calls or text messages.
You can still make and receive calls and send and receive texts with your original SIM card.
You can also make international calls online through services such as Telhey.
How do I check whether my phone supports eSIM?
Before buying, make sure your phone supports eSIM and is not locked to a carrier.
Look for Add eSIM in your phone’s settings, or check the manufacturer’s official compatibility information.
Can I share my connection through a hotspot?
Yes. Plans that support hotspot sharing let you share your phone’s connection with a laptop, tablet or other device.
There are no speed or data limits.
What should I do when my data runs out?
If your plan supports top-ups, you can buy more data without reinstalling the eSIM.
You can also buy a new plan to stay connected.
What if I can’t connect after arriving?
First, check that your eSIM is on, selected for mobile data and has data roaming enabled as instructed.
If your plan requires APN settings, check that they are configured correctly.
Still can’t connect? Contact our customer support team.
