Airtel Kenya announced the introduction of eSIM (embedded SIM) in Kenya. With eSIM, customers can access the same functionality as someone using a physical SIM card. This digital SIM offers several benefits over traditional SIM cards, including quick and simple setup online, being planet-friendly (plastic free/zero carbon emission), and providing an easy extra line, allowing you to use two numbers without needing two phones/handsets.
Customers who frequently travel will find eSIM very convenient for switching network operators at a much easier rate. If you’re worried about losing or damaging your physical SIM card, eSIM eliminates that fear, making it a reliable and secure option for mobile users.
The introduction of eSIM in Kenya is a significant milestone for Airtel, showing their commitment to championing technological advancement and creating innovative platforms and opportunities that make life simple. According to Airtel Africa Group CEO, Segun Ogunsanya, “With the introduction of eSIM in Kenya, Airtel continues to stay ahead of the curve where innovation is concerned by giving customers much convenience and flexibility.”
The introduction of the eSIM will be a game changer in the telecommunications field. With the eSIM, subscribers can now be able to switch network operators seamlessly e.g., someone with an eSIM enabled device who is visiting Kenya could switch to Airtel conveniently without having to purchase a physical sim card. Additionally, people will no longer have to walk around with more than one phone as they can manage the different sim profiles on one device, provided, they have the eSIM. In a nutshell, the eSIM will enhance connectivity.
How to activate Airtel Kenya eSIM
To activate eSIM, customers will need to ensure they have a compatible device by:
- Dialing *#06#
- Obtaining the required QR code
- Being guided through a SIM Swap process by an Airtel service personnel.
Customers can visit any Airtel shop to get an eSIM, and customer care executives will walk them through the process of setting up their eSIM using the QR code.
Some of the eSIM supported devices include:
- iPhone XR and newer iPhones
- All Samsung Galaxy S devices from the Galaxy S20, all Galaxy Fold devices from the original Galaxy Fold
- Google Pixel 3 and newer devices
- Motorola MOTORAZR2 V9x and newer devices
Airtel Kenya’s Managing Director, Ashish Malhotra, stated that “Customer expectations are changing, and we are confident that our customers will quickly move to our eSIM for what it delivers. Mobile users reward digital convenience; therefore, as a business, we shall continue enabling digital transformation to deliver the full customer experience.”
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM, also known as an embedded SIM, is a digital SIM that is built into a compatible device such as a smartphone, smartwatch, or tablet. Unlike traditional SIM cards, which are physical cards that need to be inserted into a device, eSIMs are embedded into the device’s hardware and can be activated remotely.
To activate an eSIM, customers need to obtain a QR code from their mobile network operator, which contains all the necessary information to set up the eSIM on their device. Once the code is scanned, the eSIM profile is downloaded and installed onto the device, and customers can start using their mobile network service without needing to insert a physical SIM card.
Read: What is an eSIM and how do you get started with one?
Benefits of eSIM
One of the main benefits of eSIMs is their convenience, as customers no longer need to worry about physically swapping SIM cards between devices or networks. Additionally, eSIMs are more durable than traditional SIM cards, making them easier to handle and less likely to get lost or damaged.
Another advantage of eSIMs is that they allow customers to switch between networks more easily, which can be particularly useful for frequent travelers. With an eSIM, customers can switch to a local network without needing to find a physical SIM card or wait for a new one to be shipped to them. This makes it much easier to stay connected while traveling and can save customers money on roaming charges.
eSIMs are a new and innovative way to access mobile network services that offer a range of benefits over traditional SIM cards. With the launch of eSIMs in Kenya, Airtel Kenya has demonstrated its commitment to digital transformation and innovation, giving customers a convenient and flexible way to access telecommunications and mobile money services. As more devices become compatible with eSIMs, we can expect to see the technology become even more widespread in the coming years. For Airtel, the company concluded by saying, “the telecommunications industry is constantly changing and to keep up with these changes, telecommunications companies have to constantly innovate. The case is not any different for Airtel. The eSIM is a part Airtel’s strategy towards digital inclusion as we want to ensure no one is left behind in matters connectivity. It also brings about the aspect of technology trends aimed towards convenience and sustainability.”
