Airtel Nigeria just bought the 5G spectrum and says it has launched the eSIM (embedded SIM), which is a digital SIM card with the same features as a physical SIM card. The telecommunications company made the announcement yesterday via press release, noting that the eSIM service was now live across its network.
The Telco’s Acting Chief Commercial Officer Femi Oshinlaja reaffirmed the company’s dedication to advancing digital inclusion and easing the daily routines of its customers.
To quote what he said:
“Airtel Nigeria is always at the forefront in championing technological advancement and creating innovative platforms and opportunities that will make life better, more exciting, and more enjoyable for all those in our stakeholder value chain.”
“With eSIM, we are not only bringing the latest technology to the fingertips of our customers, but we are also focusing on our Sustainability goals of digital inclusion and environmental best practices as no plastic is involved with eSIM.”
An eSIM is a digital chip that operates solely in software and can replace a physical SIM card in many modern devices. The eSIM technology allows customers to activate their mobile service remotely, without the need for a physical SIM card
With an eSIM, you can use two numbers on a single phone or hand set, and it’s easier to set up online than traditional SIM cards because it doesn’t require plastic or produce any carbon emissions.
Unlike traditional SIM cards, eSIMs cannot be misplaced unless the entire device is misplaced. If your device is lost or stolen, you can deactivate your profiles and reactivate them on a new device.
It’s worth noting that the eSIM chip is only compatible with high-end, luxury smartphones. Some of these gadgets are:
- Apple iPhone XS and newer models
- Samsung Galaxy S-series from S20
- Samsung Galaxy Note series from Note20
- Google Pixel 2 and newer models
- Samsung Galaxy Z and Galaxy Fold devices
Airtel’s introduction of this service competes with that of MTN and 9mobile, which entered the Nigerian market first.
If you are an Airtel user and you want to switch to an eSIM, you will need to make sure you have a compatible device (dial *#06#), get the necessary QR code, and then follow the instructions provided by an Airtel service representative.
Airtel claims it has perfected a straightforward procedure for activating the eSIM service for all of its customers, and the company also maintains that the digital SIM will greatly increase the productivity of Nigerians, thereby aiding the company’s stakeholders in achieving their own personal and professional goals.