Technical FAQ

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card built into your device. You activate a carrier plan by scanning a QR code or using an app. The profile is stored on the device's eUICC chip and can be activated, deactivated, or replaced without physical intervention.

Most flagship smartphones released after 2018 support eSIM, including iPhone XS and later, Samsung Galaxy S20+, and Google Pixel 3+. Check Settings for an EID number confirming eSIM hardware support.

Yes, if your device supports dual-SIM functionality. Configure your home SIM for calls/SMS and the eSIM for data while traveling.

Purchase a plan, receive a QR code, scan it through your device's eSIM settings, and follow the prompts. Requires WiFi or cellular. Takes 1-5 minutes.

Network steering is the configuration that determines which local network your roaming device connects to in each country. The quality of this steering configuration significantly affects your connectivity experience.

EU Roaming Regulation requires that EU carriers allow their customers to roam across EU member states at domestic prices, subject to fair-use policies. The quality of the roaming experience depends on bilateral agreements and is not regulated.

No. UK travelers lost EU roaming protection after Brexit. UK carriers may charge roaming fees for EU travel. UK travelers should check their carrier's current EU roaming policy.

VoLTE (Voice over LTE) enables voice calls over 4G networks. Not all eSIM providers support VoLTE on roaming connections. Verify VoLTE roaming support before selecting a plan if voice calls are important.

Light users: 500MB-1GB/day. Moderate users: 2-3GB/day. Heavy users: 5GB+/day. For a two-week trip, 10-15GB covers most travelers. Remote workers should plan for 90-240GB/month.

Throttling reduces connection speed after a data quota. Many "unlimited" plans throttle to 128Kbps after a high-speed quota. At this speed, video calls are impossible. Always check the high-speed quota and post-throttle speed.

Before departure is strongly recommended. This ensures connectivity immediately upon arrival. Some plans require WiFi for activation, making pre-departure installation essential.

Most plans allow hotspot/tethering, but some restrict it or apply separate data limits. Check plan terms explicitly before assuming hotspot is included.

Lisbon, Tallinn, Berlin, Amsterdam, and Barcelona consistently rank highly for remote work infrastructure, combining strong connectivity with active co-working ecosystems.

For most travel use cases, 4G LTE provides adequate speeds. 5G benefits users who regularly transfer large files or conduct frequent video conferences. 5G availability remains concentrated in major European cities.

Insert a SIM from a different carrier. If it connects, the phone is unlocked. Alternatively, contact your carrier directly.