It is known to all that the telecom industry is gradually moving from physical SIM cards to electronic SIM (eSIM) technology. This shift is changing the way we connect and communicate.
The eSIM is a virtual SIM card that is embedded directly into a device, eliminating the need for a physical SIM card. It is a small chip integrated into smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and even some laptops. Unlike physical SIM cards, which require manual insertion and removal, eSIMs can be programmed remotely and activated over the air, making the activation process more convenient and flexible.
In this article, I’ll be discussing how to activate eSims on each of Nigeria’s networks. How do I activate eSIM in Nigeria?
How do I activate eSIM in Nigeria?
To activate an eSIM, you need a compatible phone. Currently, eSIM-enabled phones are not widely available, but many recent models from top manufacturers support eSIM. Here are some of the devices that support eSIM.
List of devices and models:
- Apple iPhone XS and subsequent models
- Samsung Galaxy S-series starting from S20
- Samsung Galaxy Note series starting from Note20
- Google Pixel 2 and more recent models
- Samsung Galaxy Z and Galaxy Fold devices
1. How to activate eSIM on MTN
To activate the eSIM cards on MTN, you will need to visit an MTN customer care center where a representative will assist you free of charge. The customer care agent will initiate the activation process for your eSIM cards, ensuring they become functional on your phone.
Once your device is confirmed compatible with MTN eSIM, an account is created for you and an agent will assist you in completing the integration process.
Once integration is completed, you will notice that using the virtual card is nearly identical to using their physical SIM card. However, there are some new additions. Notably, MTN eSIM cards boast a larger storage capacity compared to physical SIM cards.
This is basically the process:
- Use an app that can scan a QR code.
- Scan the eSIM QR code.
- Press the message. If it shows, a cell plan is recognized.
- At the bottom of the screen, click Next.
- Tap “Add” to add a cell schedule.
If a verification code is required to activate your eSIM card, enter the service provider’s number. But also in other way you can use SIMO app to activate MTN eSIm available for android users only.
How to activate eSIM on MTN using SIMO App
You can easily connect to your MTN eSIM using the SIMO app:
- Download the SIMO App from Google Playstore.
- Open the SIMO App.
- Set up an eSIM profile.
- To connect online, click “Connect.”
- Then choose the plan that you think will works best.
If you have any difficulty, contact the SUMO App customer service.
2. How to activate eSIM on Airtel
In short, you can convert your Airtel regular physical SIM card into a digital eSIM. Here’s how:
- To begin, send an SMS to 121 with the message “eSIMSPACE>email” followed by your email address (e.g., “eSIM info@feedme.ng” to 121).
- You will then receive a call and an SMS to confirm your request for switching from a physical SIM to an eSIM.
- After which you will receive an email with a QR code, which you will need to use your phone to scan the QR code and set up your eSIM.
- Scan the QR Code received on your registered email id.
You can Scan Airtel eSIM QR codes by following these instructions:
- Access “Settings”
- Choose “Mobile Data”
- Tap “Add Data Plan”
- Select “Scan QR code” from the email (make sure your phone is connected to mobile data or Wi-Fi while scanning)
- Provide a label for the eSIM under the “Label for your New Plan” section.
3. How to activate eSIM on 9mobile
Basically, the ways you can activate eSIM on 9mobile vary depending on whether you are using an Android or iPhone device. In this section, I’ll walk you through how to activate eSIM on both devices.
How to activate 9mobile eSIM on iPhones:
To activate 9mobile eSIM on your iPhone, follow these instructions:
- You can obtain the QR code from a customer service representative at 9mobile.
- Go to “Cellular” under Settings.
- Click on “Add cell plan”.
- Scan the QR code you received from the customer care representative.
If you’re asked to enter a confirmation code to activate the eSIM, just enter the phone number from the QR code.
How to activate 9mobile eSIM on Android:
To activate 9mobile eSIM on your Android, follow these instructions:
- Use an app that can scan a QR code.
- Scan the eSIM QR code.
- Touch detection of cell plan detected, when you see it.
- At the bottom of the screen, click Continue.
- Click “Add cell plan”
If you’re asked to enter a confirmation code to activate the eSIM, just enter the phone number from the QR code.
How to Use the SIMO App to Activate 9mobile eSIM on an Android Phone
You can easily connect to your (mobile eSIM using the SIMO app):
- Download the SIMO App from Google Playstore.
- Open the SIMO App.
- Set up an eSIM profile.
- To connect online, click “Connect.”
- Then choose the plan that you think will works best.
If you have any difficulty, contact the SUMO App customer service.
4. How to activate eSIM on GLO
To activate eSIM on GLO, visit a nearby GLO customer service center with your device and ID card. Fill out a form, provide your device’s IMEI number, and confirm the details. Once done, you can start using your eSIM on your device.
Alternative you can visit GLO customer care service to request GLO eSim QR code. To download an eSIM profile, just scan the QR code given by the customer care agent. It will direct you to the profile download page.
Steps to get a Glo eSIM QR code, follow these steps:
- To activate or convert to eSIM, visit a Glo Customer Service Center or any Gloworld outlet to get help with activating your eSIM.
- Ensure you hold your national ID and existing Glo SIM card then speak with a representative at their outlet to guide you through the process.
- The GLO representative will help you to initiate the eSIM activation process and provide a unique QR code for it.
- After the QR code is created, you will be given either a printed or digital version of it. Make sure you get the QR code.
- Now, you can proceed with scanning the QR code on your device.
You can Scan GLO eSIM QR codes by following these instructions:
- Open your device settings
- Navigate to eSIM/mobile data
- choose to add new eSIM or scan QR code.
- Scan Glo’s QR code with your camera.
- Your device will start activating the eSIM; It may take a few moments for the activation to complete.
- Follow device prompts to finish.
Conclusion:
The guide provides a detailed step-by-step process to successfully activate your eSIM on your smartphone. eSIM offers multiple benefits such as having multiple phone numbers on one device, easy carrier switching, and seamless international travel without physical SIM cards. Ensure your phone supports eSIM activation, which is common in modern smartphones from brands like Apple, Samsung, Google, and Huawei. If you encounter any issues, contact your mobile service provider for assistance. Activating your eSIM means embracing the future of mobile connectivity, offering convenience and flexibility. Say goodbye to physical SIM cards and enjoy staying connected wherever you go with your eSIM-enabled smartphone.
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