Introduction 

The Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card has undergone several iterations through the years to keep pace with the latest mobile phone technology. Its latest version? The embedded SIM, or more commonly known as eSIM. This type of SIM has been gaining popularity in recent years as large smartphone companies, like Apple and Samsung, continue to release eSIM-compatible flagship phones. Naturally, telecommunications companies followed suit, releasing their eSIM offerings one after the other. 

In the Philippines, combining the convenience of eSIM and the budget-friendly quality of prepaid plans has made telcos like DITO Telecommunity stand out. DITO's eSIM offer not only allows you to keep up with newer phone models but also gives you access to 5G-enabled mobile data and subscriber perks. That said, you need to consider several factors first to ensure you make the most out of your eSIM. Refer to this guide to enjoy using your eSIM to the fullest.

5 Factors You Should Consider Before Switching to a Prepaid eSIM in the Philippines 

Before you buy a prepaid eSIM, consider factors like your purpose for purchasing the SIM, your device, and your location. Below are specific considerations that you should weigh as you contemplate a switch.

Purpose for Switching 

The convenience you get from an eSIM is closely related to your reason for using it. If you are one of the following, you will likely find the embedded SIM type irresistible:

Users With Multiple Contacts - An eSIM is perfect if you want to separate personal and work contacts, but do not want to use multiple gadgets. An eSIM lets you use multiple SIM profiles, enabling you to switch depending on your needs. Most gadgets, including iPhones, allow up to five or more eSIM profiles in one phone. That said, you can only have two (2) active eSIMs at a time if you are using an iPhone.

Users Who Frequently Travel Abroad - An eSIM is ideal for travel use as it enables you to stay connected to data abroad without buying a physical SIM card and inserting it into your device. With an eSIM, you can easily activate a network available in the region with just a few taps on your phone. Using eSIMs offered in the country you are visiting also eliminates data roaming expenses.

Device Compatibility 

If you bought your phone before 2016, chances are you're still using a traditional SIM card. That means you will need to purchase an eSIM-enabled phone if you want to make the switch. Gadgets vary slightly — Samsung Galaxy models with eSIMs retain the physical SIM trays, while the latest iPhones are exclusively eSIM-compatible. 

Fortunately, buying a flagship phone is no longer as far-fetched as it once was, considering that more people find sophisticated devices necessary for their tasks. If you are a content creator, mobile photographer, or enthusiastic mobile gamer, it won't be long before you buy a newer phone and automatically switch to eSIM. 

Network Coverage 

Before you lock in on an eSIM, ensure you are within the coverage area of your chosen network carrier. You cannot expect to use this SIM type and maximize the telco's offerings if the service is unavailable in your location. You can review a network's reach through their website or ask around. 

Confirming first is especially important if you are looking for 5G capabilities. Given the requirement for 5G towers to be closer in distance, it is paramount that you ensure you will use the eSIM within that small coverage window. Otherwise, you would not be able to take advantage of your 5G promos.

Device Swapping 

Using eSIM is more beneficial if your device is working well and you're not going to replace it anytime soon. That's because transferring your eSIM to another phone is a complicated process. Before eSIMs, many users would simply insert their physical SIMs into a new phone if, for example, their primary phone's battery died or the device itself broke. This way, they can still use the same number and access the same information saved on their SIM. 

In contrast, doing the swapping with an eSIM is challenging because your SIM is integrated into your device. While you can download your profile, transferring it to another phone will require you to contact your telecom operator and undergo multiple identity checks. So, before switching to an eSIM, consider how often you expect to need to use another device to access the same profile. The ideal scenario is that you wouldn't be forced to transfer your profile to another device, as your primary phone is working optimally and you have a charger or power bank ready at any time.

Subscriber Perks 

Buying an eSIM in the Philippines as a prepaid user offers advantages beyond the convenience of using multiple SIM profiles. If you get an eSIM from the right carrier, you can score cost-effective mobile data plans without the commitment of monthly payments. Also, you only pay for the data you plan to consume, topping up only when you exceed your earlier allocation.

To ensure you maximise your prepaid subscriptions, choose a telco whose offerings align with your data and communication needs and fit within your budget. Opt for 5G-enabled eSIMs as well, so you can enjoy fast internet on your mobile device.

Ready To Switch? Get a Prepaid eSIM With 9 GB Data DITO!

Switching to an eSIM and accessing prepaid plans is easier with DITO Telecommunity, as you can do it all online. You can purchase the eSIM through the eShop, then easily register and activate it on your phone. When you get a new eSIM from DITO, you get unlimited texts to all networks and DITO-to-DITO calls, 150 minutes of calls to other networks, and 9 GB worth of all-access data. The eSIM costs only ₱99, making switching not only convenient but also affordable.

Conclusion 

As the latest phones increasingly feature eSIM compatibility, it's crucial to keep up by switching to a prepaid eSIM available in the Philippines. However, before you make the switch, ensure that the move aligns with your purpose, location, and preferences. Take your time weighing the pros and cons — the DITO eSIM is not going anywhere. Visit the eShop as soon as you're ready to make a purchase!