Some eSIM plans are data-only, but that doesn't mean you have to stop calling and texting. You can still stay connected with friends and family while you travel, regardless of whether your eSIM has a voice or text features. In this article, we will cover the basics of eSIM data plans and how to make phone calls with a data-only eSIM.
What is an eSIM?
Let's start with the basics: What is an eSIM? An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital SIM card that's built into a device as software instead of a physical card. It connects you to a carrier's network and identifies you as a mobile subscriber, but it does it all digitally.
Most devices manufactured since 2018 support eSIMs. This, however, can vary depending on where you purchased your device and the carrier you use for your mobile service.
What is an eSIM Plan?
With an eSIM, you can download a digital plan, install it on your device, and connect to a mobile network in minutes. One of the advantages of selecting an eSIM provider is that you are not bound by a carrier and can alter your plan as you travel.
The SIM Store eSIM plans are prepaid and come with preloaded data (e.g., 1 GB, 3 GB, 5 GB) that you can use for a set time (e.g., 7 days, 15 days, 30 days). If you don't have enough data or your eSIM is about to expire, our plans let you add more data while you're on the go. Some of The SIM Store plans are data-only, while others have a call-and-text feature.
How to Make a Phone Call with a Data-Only eSIM
If your eSIM is data-only, don't worry — you can still stay in touch with friends and family. Here are three ways to make a phone call with a data-only eSIM.
1. Use an Internet-Based Calling App
The easiest way to make a phone call with a data-only eSIM is with an internet-based calling app like WhatsApp, FaceTime, Google Voice, or Skype. These free services use VoIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol) to place and receive calls over the internet. They'll use your eSIM data to connect, so you don't have to worry about roaming.
Most will automatically sync your contacts, making it easy to stay connected. The only catch is that the person you're trying to reach must also have the calling app downloaded. Before you leave for your destination, we recommend downloading an app and sharing it with your friends and family, so they will know how to reach you.
Internet-based calling apps can also be helpful for making local calls at your destination. Some businesses will have a WhatsApp number available to communicate with their customers, depending on where you are traveling.
2. Call via Social Media
You can also use your eSIM data to make calls over social media. Both Facebook's Messenger application and Instagram's Direct Messaging feature call capabilities. Again, you can only use the app with people who also use it, but it's a good way to stay in touch.
As with internet-based calling apps, you'll want to be sure that data roaming is switched off for your primary SIM line to avoid roaming charges while you chat.
3. Use Your Primary Number’s Wi-Fi Calling Feature
You can make and receive calls using your regular phone number if your carrier supports Wi-Fi Calling. If this feature is enabled on your device, your phone will connect to your home carrier's network over the internet using the eSIM data connection (VoIP).
When Wi-Fi Calling is enabled, the phone will use any available internet connection (eSIM data or Wi-Fi) to connect to your home carrier. You should see something like “Carrier Wi-Fi” in your status bar, where Carrier is your home mobile plan provider's name. This will allow you to make and receive calls and texts with no roaming fees and no additional costs because the call will be going over the data connection.
If the option is not available under your Primary plan, unfortunately it is not supported by your carrier. This capability is carrier-dependent, and not related to the eSIM.
In Conclusion
An eSIM makes it easy to stay connected when you travel, whether it's placing a call, scrolling social media, or booking a ride. Visit The SIM Store to find an eSIM plan for your next trip.
FAQs
Can you make phone calls with eSIM?
Yes, you can make phone calls with an eSIM; however, it will depend on the type of eSIM plan you purchased. eSIM plans with call and text services provide an international number that allows you to make phone calls and send text messages abroad. If you have a data-only eSIM plan, you can still make phone calls, but will need to use an internet-based calling app (like WhatsApp), social media, or your primary number via Wi-Fi calling.
Does The SIM Store allow phone calls? Does The SIM Store provide you with a phone number?
Some of The SIM Store eSIMs, such as the Global Explorer+, provide an international number so you can make phone calls and texts abroad.
How to make phone calls with data only eSIM plan?
If you have a data-only eSIM plan, you can place calls with an internet-based calling app (like WhatsApp), social media, or your primary number. Remember, using your primary number abroad can result in roaming fees from your carrier if you don't have Wi-Fi calling enabled.
How to make a call using eSIM on iPhone?
If your eSIM comes with call and text services, you can make a phone call on your iPhone just as you would any other call. FaceTime can be used to avoid roaming charges abroad if your eSIM plan is data-only.
