Back in the day, the only option for having a second phone number was carrying around two phones. It worked, but the stress of having to keep both devices updated, charged, and in your possession was a massive headache and more of a hassle than anything else.
Fortunately, things have changed and there are now many great options on the market. Unfortunately, because there are so many options, choosing between them can be overwhelming.
Should you invest in a phone with dual-SIM capabilities or opt for VoIP service? Would a second phone number app be better? And what about phone plans – should you get a separate one?
These are all good options that will do what you need them to do, but there is also another, newer and better solution that was designed to offer unparalleled flexibility, coverage, and ease of use. It’s called an eSIM (embedded SIM) and it is the next big thing in mobile technology.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, business executive, or digital nomad, an eSIM offers everything you need from a second line and then some.
Here are 5 ways using an eSIM for your second number streamlines communication:
1. Two Mobile Plans on One Device
Perhaps the biggest drawcard of using an eSIM for a second number is that it is hosted on your device. Instead of having to carry around two phones or log in to an app or VoIP service, you can have two phone plans on one device and not have to worry about switching between them.
You can have two separate mobile plans working simultaneously and not have to worry about them interfering with each other. Your device will differentiate between business and personal calls, which will make it easy to keep track of your work and personal communications.
With both numbers on a single device, it will also be easier to switch between your primary and secondary numbers. Management of your two numbers is done via the settings menu on your phone.
2. Separate Accounts Make It Easier to Track Expenses
Having two separate mobile plans means you get two different billing accounts. This makes it easier to keep track of your business expenses, which is essential if you are running your own business or need to claim back from your company or file tax returns.
An eSIM plan is sent to the recipient via email, which makes it even easier to keep track of expenditures. Whether an individual or company makes the purchase, an email will be sent out that can be recorded and retrieved later on if necessary.
3. Instant Download and Activation
Obtaining and activating an eSIM can be done within minutes. There is no subscription or registration process—all you need to do is buy an eSIM online and it will be sent to your email address instantly. You will scan a QR code, follow a few on-screen prompts, and you’re ready to go.
It is the same process when you need to top up and the data is added immediately.
Even when you’re traveling overseas, you will be able to activate an eSIM plan quickly and easily. You can buy an eSIM from a local provider or buy a globally enabled prepaid eSIM that works on all major networks, including 5G, in over 200 countries around the world.
4. Reliable Connectivity at Home and Abroad
If you choose a globally enabled eSIM as your second number you get more coverage than you would on a regular mobile plan. You are not restricted to just one network, so you can jump to another available network if the connection is weak or unavailable in a specific area.
And if you are in a 5G hotspot, you also have the option of connecting to that network.
This functionality is possible because of something called remote provisioning. It is a specification pioneered by the GSMA that allows users to remotely activate a profile within an eSIM. Remote SIM provisioning is considered one of the most promising solutions of its generation.
5. Cheap Prepaid Rates Overseas
Along with being able to host two numbers on one device, this is one of the biggest perks of using an eSIM for your second phone number. Its ability to bypass international roaming charges and connect to multiple networks means an eSIM also avoids the hefty costs associated with international travel.
Whether you buy an eSIM in the country you are traveling to or from an online eSIM store, most plans offer much cheaper rates than standard mobile plans and international roaming. If you travel often, there is no doubt that using an eSIM can save you a significant amount of money.
The eSIM Was Made for Seamless Connectivity and Ease of Use
Although it is still a relatively new technology, the eSIM has already been touted as the future of mobile connectivity. With benefits such as the ones listed above, it’s not difficult to see why.
Whatever you want a second line for, an eSIM was designed for people who are always on the go and want more control over when, where, and how they use their second line. Using an eSIM gives you almost limitless freedom, seamless connectivity, and none of the exorbitant costs.
Sure, there are many other excellent options on the market, but why consider anything else when an eSIM offers everything you need and more?
Embedded SIM technology is currently available in these devices:
- iPhone SE
- iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
- iPhone XS, XS Max
- iPhone XR
- Samsung Galaxy Note 20 FE 5G
- Samsung Galaxy Note 20 FE
- Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra, Ultra 5G
- Samsung Note 20+
- Samsung Fold LTE model
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip
- Samsung Galaxy S20, s20+, and S20 Ultra
- Huawei P40 and P40 Pro
- Nuu Mobile X5
- Google Pixel 4
- Google Pixel 4a
