Short version: our eSIM is data only. It has no phone number, so you can't make calls or send SMS from it. You can share its data from your phone with a hotspot.
Calls and SMS
- Every plan card says it under "Plan type": "Data only, no phone number or calls".
- You can't call from the eSIM, and that includes emergency numbers like 112 or 911. Keep your regular SIM in the phone for calls.
- When installing on iPhone, choose data only. Calls and SMS stay on your regular SIM and your number doesn't change.
- On Android, set the new eSIM for mobile data and keep calls and SMS on your regular SIM.
How calls and texts on your regular SIM work abroad depends on your carrier. It's best to turn off data roaming on it so all your data goes through our eSIM.
Messaging apps
Messages and calls in messaging apps go over the internet, so they work on our eSIM like any other traffic and count toward your data. On unlimited plans, speed drops after the daily amount, but messengers keep working.
Hotspot
You can share data from your phone with your own laptop or tablet unless the plan card says otherwise. The "Hotspot" line on the plan card reads "Works, but depends on the carrier". If hotspot doesn't turn on, message us in chat.
What's not allowed:
- reselling eSIMs or selling data to other people;
- putting the eSIM in modems, SIM farms or devices with round-the-clock automated traffic.
If usage clearly isn't personal, the plan may be limited or disabled. The details are in the "Fair use" section of our Terms of service.
Hotspot burns through data fast. If you plan to work from a laptop, get a bigger plan or go unlimited.
Questions? Tap the chat button in the bottom-right corner or email support@skipthekiosk.com.