eSIMs have quickly become a necessity for travelers worldwide. These digital SIM cards simplify an age-old frustration of connecting to networks when abroad.
With an eSIM, you no longer have to buy local SIM cards or be at the mercy of expensive roaming packages. Instead, you can connect to the best local networks with just a few clicks on your phone.
A study from Juniper Research shows the number of eSIM users will rise by over 440% over the next few years. That means up to 215 million people will be using the technology by 2028.
As a result of this surge, new providers are entering the eSIM market daily. While choice can be a great thing, deciding between providers can be difficult. Many make the same big claims about seamless connectivity and reliability.
So, how do you possibly choose between providers in a surging market? Who can you trust, and how can you be sure? Simple. You need to take a closer look at their mobile apps!
Five things to check when picking the best eSIM mobile app
Since everything is controlled on your smartphone, picking the right eSIM mobile app is essential. Below are five factors to keep in mind when deciding on which mobile app to download:
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Does the eSIM app suit your travel and data needs?
One of the most important parts of an eSIM app is its coverage. You want to find a provider that is available at your future destination. This will ensure you enjoy seamless connectivity for your entire trip.
While providers continue to expand their networks, you can’t take anything for granted. Especially for newer apps, they may have limited availability.
Your first port of call is to check in the app to see if your country is listed. If your country is listed, you can breathe a sigh of relief! If not, then you should look elsewhere. For example, if you plan to visit the United States, then you need to find an eSIM for the USA. Only then can you enjoy connectivity across the entire country.
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Is the app user-friendly?
Once you’ve whittled down a list of apps available in your area, it’s time to examine their design and accessibility. After all, a core reason so many travelers have embraced eSIMs is that they are easy to use and uncomplicated.
Features of a user-friendly design include:
- Great user interface: You don’t want a busy screen when taking out an eSIM plan. Instead, opt for a straightforward design that is easy to navigate. The best apps will have simple menus and easy-to-read text.
- Free, quick setup: The best eSIM apps should be free to download so you can research plans thoroughly. Once installed, they should also allow you to pick your desired plan and activate it in just a few steps.
- Payment and top-ups: Apps should allow various payment methods when taking out a plan. You should be able to instantly top up if and when needed.
- Loading speeds: If an app is simple and well-designed, it should also be quick and responsive.
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Check what plans are being offered
Travelers should also pay close attention to the type of plans each eSIM app offers. This can be the deciding factor, as some providers offer more flexibility and value for money.
The best eSIM apps offer flexible plans ranging from 7 to 30 days. This ensures that travelers can find the right plan to suit their needs. Data plans range from 1GB, suitable for simple online activities, to 20GB+ for longer stays.
While the data you need will depend on your usage habits, the best apps should allow you to top up anytime. This means you can start on a cheaper data plan and upgrade when and if you need to.
Speaking of money, plans advertised in mobile apps should be sold at affordable rates. The best apps should have no hidden costs or fees.
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How good is the customer support?
While eSIM apps are renowned for being easy to use, things can still go wrong. And when you’re abroad, you want to ensure you can get the help you need – when you need it!
Check to see what kind of customer support your future provider offers. You should be able to chat with customer support teams either within the app or have the option to email them.
Moreover, it’s essential to pick a provider with 24/7 support. This ensures that you can still get the help you need no matter what time zone you are in.
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Check compatibility and customer testimonials
You also need to consider compatibility when downloading an eSIM app. This means your phone should be able to download, install, and operate the app as intended.
When looking at an app in the store, check how recently it has been updated. The best eSIM apps will receive regular updates to ensure they perform at the highest level. If an app hasn’t been revised in some time, it may perform sluggish or have security issues.
While checking out the app stores, check customer testimonials and reviews. These people will share their experiences with an app, highlighting the pros and cons of downloading it. This can give you valuable insight into whether the app is the right fit for you.
Choosing the best eSIM mobile app
eSIMs are fast becoming the new norm in overseas travel. With them, you’ll enjoy seamless connectivity anywhere you go. But as new providers appear in the market, consumers must recognise the traits of a great eSIM mobile app.
First, check coverage and availability at your destination. Then, take a closer look at the app itself. It should be simple, easy to use, and have you set up within a few minutes. After that, you should check compatibility and customer reviews to decide on the best app for your needs.
