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While traditional plastic SIM cards sometimes include phone numbers, travelers often prefer prepaid eSIM to avoid expensive roaming charges. Many eSIM plans only offer data services, but that doesn't mean you have to miss out on calls and texts. This article will guide you on how to make phone calls using a data-only eSIM, ensuring you can stay connected with family and friends no matter where you are.
What is A Data-only eSIM?
Data-only eSIMs (embedded digital SIMs) are designed for data use only, unlike traditional SIM cards that offer both data and voice capabilities. Commonly used in smartphone, tablets, smartwatches, and IoT devices, these eSIMs focus on internet connectivity rather than voice communication. Activated with a data plan from a network provider, they enable internet access, app usage, and other data-related activities. Although they lack a phone number for traditional calls, you can still make and receive calls using internet-based communication apps to staying connected with friends and family while traveling. Whether you're an avid traveler or seeking cost-effective communication, using an eSIM for calling opens up endless possibilities for connectivity and savings.
Four ways to Make Phone Calls with a Data-only eSIM:
Got an eSIM data plan and puzzled about making phone calls sans a phone number? No worries! While data-only eSIMs aren't into traditional voice calls, we have four ways to make calls with an eSIM.
1. Use VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) App
VoIP allows you to make voice calls over the internet instead of traditional phone lines. You don't have to worry about roaming charges because the calls use your eSIM data to connect. Many popular calling applications like WhatsApp, Skype, Telegram, Zoom, Google Voice, and FaceTime support VoIP. However, the person you're trying to call must also have the same app installed.
If you're using an iPhone or iPad, you can also use apps like iMessage and FaceTime. When iMessage is connected to your Apple ID email address, messages are sent over Wi-Fi or data and don't count as SMS.
Note:
When using VoIP services, make sure to turn off data roaming for your primary SIM card so that your device only uses the eSIM for data transfer.
2. Through Social Media Platform
You can use eSIM data to make calls through social media. While you can only contact people who use the app, it's an easy way to stay connected.
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Facebook Messenger
If you have a Facebook account, you can easily make video calls to any of your Facebook contacts through the Messenger app, which is available on desktop and mobile devices.
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Instagram DMs
Primarily known for photo and video sharing, Instagram also includes voice and video calling features within the app. Simply use the call feature in Instagram Direct Messages (DMs) to communicate with people in your friends list.
Note:
Make sure data roaming is turned off for your primary SIM card to avoid roaming charges while chatting.
3. Wi-Fi Calling
Many modern smartphones support Wi-Fi calling, a feature that lets you make phone calls over a Wi-Fi network using your data plan. Ensure your phone and carrier support Wi-Fi calling, then enable it in your phone settings. You can also connect to a friend's eSIM hotspot to enjoy uninterrupted data services. This way, you can stay connected without paying extra roaming charges.
4. Use Your Primary Phone Number
If you have an eSIM for local data while traveling, you can still enable your primary line in your phone settings to use your regular phone number for calls and texts. This setup allows you to use an eSIM for connectivity while keeping your primary line active for calls and texts. Since eSIM plan is prepaid, you avoid data roaming charges. However, voice calls and texts will be charged by your carrier on a per-use basis in other countries. Be sure to check with your carrier about their roaming rates and confirm that your plan supports international calls and roaming before you travel.
Can I Use My Phone Number with a Data-only eSIM?
Of course you can! Most smartphones support dual SIM functionality. You can use your primary SIM as your phone number and use a data-only eSIM for your travel data.
1. Keep Your Primary SIM Card Active
Make sure your primary SIM card remains active, with your regular phone number available. If you turn off or remove the SIM card, you won't be able to use your phone number.
2. Turn Off Roaming for Your Primary SIM
Before traveling, go to your phone settings and turn off Data Roaming for this SIM card. This prevents the primary SIM from using data abroad.
3. Verify You Don't Have a Carrier Travel Plan
Carrier travel plans charge a fixed daily rate for using your regular SIM card abroad and are automatically triggered when you leave the country. Check with your carrier to make sure you are not on a carrier travel plan.
4. Select Primary SIM as Default Line
Go to Settings > Cellular or Mobile Data > Default Line > iMessage & FaceTime (for iPhone users) / "Calls" and "Messages" (for Android users) > choose your primary SIM. This setting ensures that calls and messages are made made with your primary SIM card using your phone number.
5. Enable Your eSIM for Mobile Data
Upon arrival at your destination, ensure your eSIM is activated to use mobile data.
Note:
When using an eSIM for all your mobile data, your home carrier cannot charge you for data roaming. However, they still own your phone number, so they can bill you for individual voice calls and text messages when you are abroad. Charges may vary depending on your carrier and destination.
How Much do Calls and Texts Cost on A Data-only Plan?
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Call Charges
Since you wisely turned off data roaming on your primary SIM card to avoid roaming charges and confirmed that you do not have a travel data plan with your carrier, your local carrier cannot charge you for data usage. However, if they still allow you to use their network with your phone number, they may charge you for voice calls and text messages. Here are three common scenarios:
1) If a call comes in but you don't answer it, you won't be charged.
2) If you decide to answer or make a call, your regular phone provider may charge you per minute, and these additional charges will appear on your next bill.
3) If you only make or receive calls occasionally, the charges may be relatively low, but it's best to check your carrier's rates before you travel.
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SMS Charges
Typically, there are fees associated with sending or receiving SMS text messages, ranging from 50 cents to several dollars per message. However, some carriers may offer free texting services, so you won't be charged for received messages even while traveling internationally. Keep in mind that if your settings are configured correctly, messages sent via iMessage are not considered text messages because they are sent between Apple devices over the Internet (Wi-Fi or data).
How to Make Emergency Call with a Data-only eSIM?
Data-only eSIMs generally don't support traditional voice calls. However, there are three alternatives you can use:
1) Contact Local Authorities Online
Many countries have websites or apps where you can contact emergency services.
2) Connect to Wi-Fi
If your phone supports Wi-Fi calling and you are connected to a Wi-Fi network, you may be able to make emergency calls this way.
3) Switch to a Local SIM
If you are in an area where making an emergency call is critical, consider switching to a local SIM that supports voice calls.
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Can I Make Emergency Calls with an eSIM?
Your device contains a list of emergency numbers like 911 or 112, which are prioritized during critical situations. These calls will connect to any available network, even if it's not your primary one, ensuring your call gets through even in congested conditions. If there's an available network, your device will show “Emergency Calls Only,” indicating you can make emergency calls. However, if no networks are available and your device shows “No Service,” emergency calls cannot be made.
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Can I Make Emergency Calls without a SIM card?
Yes, you can make emergency calls without a SIM card as long as your phone can connect to a cell tower. Some countries, like Germany and Switzerland, require a valid SIM card to prevent misuse of emergency numbers. Data-only SIMs or eSIMs can still make emergency calls, provided they have some call functionality. If your SIM or eSIM does not have any valid phone number or voice calling capabilities, it will not be able to make emergency calls.
Will My Phone Number Change if I Install a Data-only eSIM?
No, installing a data-only eSIM will not change your phone number. A data-only eSIM offers internet access without affecting your current phone number, enabling you to use your existing number for calls and messages. This means your family and friends will still see your familiar number when you call them, and you will remain reachable on WhatsApp, FaceTime, or any other preferred apps on your primary line
How to Set Up Your Data-only eSIM?
Setting up your data-only eSIM is simple and can be completed in just a few steps.
1. Check Device Compatibility
Ensure your iOS/Android device supports eSIM. Not all devices are equipped with this feature, so verify compatibility by checking the list of eSIM-compatible devices.
2. Purchase Your eSIM Plan
When buying a data-only eSIM, consider the following factors:
1) Coverage: Different service providers offer varying coverage areas. Ensure the eSIM you select provides reliable coverage in the regions you visit frequently.
2) Data Plans: Compare different data plans to find the best value for your needs. Some eSIMs offer unlimited data, while others have data caps. Choose a plan that suits your usage requirements and budget.
3) Pricing: Evaluate the cost of different plans to ensure you get the best deal. Look for promotions or discounts that might be available.
3. Install and Activate Your eSIM
Once you've purchased your data-only eSIM, follow these steps to install and activate it:
1) Go to your device's settings menu.
2) Find the eSIM or mobile network section.
3) Follow the prompts to activate your eSIM. You will either scan a QR code provided by your service provider or manually enter the activation details. For detailed instructions, refer to our page on how to install an eSIM in an iPhone or Android phone.
4. Enjoy High-Speed Data
After successfully activating your eSIM, you can enjoy high-speed data without any interruptions. Stay connected wherever you go and make the most of your travels with reliable internet access.
How to Check Your eSIM Data Usage?
For iPhone Users:
- Go to Settings > Cellular or Mobile Data.
- Select your eSIM profile.
- Scroll down to view your data usage.
For Android Users:
- Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network.
- Choose your eSIM profile.
- View your data usage.
For MicroEsim Users:
MicroEsim is dedicated to providing convenient and reliable services to all travelers. To check your eSIM usage, click here and enter the ICCID provided in the email you received.
Starting to plan your next travel destination? Enhance your travel experience with flexible data-only eSIM options from over 150 countries and enjoy seamless internet access without the worry of high roaming charges.
