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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my phone supports eSIM?

1. View the list of enabled devices:

a. iOS must be updated to 14.1 or later.b. Android 10 or later.

2. Revisa bien:

IOS: Settings > General > About > Carrier Lock. If you see “No SIM restrictions,” your phone is unlocked and ready to use an eSIM. If it says “SIM card locked,” the device does not work. Check the eSIM QR code issue, what to do at the end of this document.
Android: Go to Settings or Configuration > Connections > Mobile Networks > Network Operators > Turn off Automatic Selection to see available operators. Note: If you only see your operator's name, your phone is locked. If you can choose from multiple operators, your phone is unlocked and you can use your eSIM without any problems.

If not, how to unlock a mobile compatible with eSIM? If it is compatible and locked, you must contact your original operator and request to unlock the phone. This is done quickly and free of charge. Once your phone is unlocked, you can set up your eSIM. If the issue is with the code and not the device, check The eSIM QR code doesn't work, what should I do at the end of this?

How to Install & Activate the eSIM?

IOS:

Install - There are two ways:

a. Scan the QR code, start and confirm the download, choose a name for the data plan, we recommend calling it 'Airtime'. Choose the new data plan as the 'data-only' option. This change does NOT affect your original SIM. WSP, and social networks.b. Go to Settings or Configuration > Mobile Data or Cellular Network > Add eSIM or Add eSIM > Use QR code > Scan the QR code or Enter details manually > Next > Continue with activation.

Activate:

a. Settings or Configuration > Mobile Data or Cellular Network > Select your Airtime eSIM > Enable data roaming.

Android:

Install:

a. Settings > Connections > SIM Manager > Select your Airtime eSIM and check if it's active > Go back to Connections > Mobile Networks > Enable data roaming.

Activate:

a. Go to Settings or Configuration > Mobile Data or Cellular Network > Select your Airtime eSIM > Enable data roaming.

Install - If you installed your eSIM before your trip, make sure to turn off data roaming until you're at your destination to avoid unexpected data usage.
note: You can wait until you arrive in the country to install your eSIM, but remember you'll need a Wi-Fi connection to complete the installation.
Activate - Remember The eSIM QR code doesn't work, what should I do at the end of this?

How to Activate eSIM on Android?

1. Check that the new signal icon on your phone has at least one bar (top right corner).

2. Settings > 'Connections' > 'SIM manager'.

a. Ensure your new plan is activated and selected as the preferred SIM for mobile data.

Can I use my SIM alongside the eSIM?

YES! iPhone and Android: Set up your Airtime eSIM for data and your SIM for calls.

IOS: Go to Settings > Mobile Data > Ensure both your SIM and eSIM are active > Select Default Line or Default Voice Line > Choose your personal line > Go back to Mobile Data > Tap Mobile Data and select your Airtime eSIM > Turn off the data switch option.

Android: Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager > Ensure both your SIM and eSIM are active > For Calls, confirm that your personal SIM is selected > Choose Mobile Data and select your Airtime eSIM > Turn off the Data and Backup Call switch.

note: In both cases, turn off the 'Data Switch' option to prevent automatic switching between SIMs based on signal strength.

When does my data plan start?

Your plan activates immediately when you connect your eSIM to any compatible network. For example, if you bought a 1-day plan and activated it at 10 a.m., it will remain active for a full 24 hours, ending at 10 a.m. the next day.

When will I receive my eSIM?

Once you purchase your eSIM, you'll receive a confirmation email with the QR code for activation immediately. Please note that once your eSIM is purchased, it is non-refundable.

How do I keep my number on WhatsApp?

You don't need to configure anything. If you don't activate a new number on WhatsApp, you will always keep your old one.

What speed will I have?

In most cases, your Airtime eSIM offers maximum speed coverage (4G LTE like any local data line). However, please note that in areas with poor coverage, your phone may connect at lower speeds.

Can I make calls and send SMS with my eSIM?

Airtime eSIMs only include data in the destination country; they do not allow local or international calls unless using VOIP apps like WhatsApp or Skype, which use your data plan. Airtime eSIMs are for data use only, please set up your eSIM as a data plan on your device.

Can I use my physical SIM card alongside the eSIM?

Yes, BUT note that if you keep your physical SIM active, your operator may charge roaming fees for receiving or making calls and SMS.

note: Set up your Airtime eSIM for data and your SIM for calls. In both cases, turn off the 'Data Switch' option to prevent automatic switching between SIMs based on signal strength.

Should I activate roaming on my phone?

Yes, to get better coverage with your eSIM, you should keep 'Mobile Data Roaming' or 'Roaming' enabled. Please note that using this option does not incur extra charges as long as your Airtime eSIM is set up for data usage.

What happens if I run out of data or validity days?

Once the data plan is exhausted, either through data consumption or expiration of validity days, the eSIM will stop working and the internet connection will be cut off.

How to install your eSIM manually?

iPhone:

1. Go to Settings or Configuration > Cellular Network or Mobile Data > Add or Add eSIM and choose to use the QR code. Then tap on Enter Details Manually and copy and paste the SM-DP address and activation code. Finally, tap Next, wait a few minutes, then continue > Configure > follow the steps 'how to install'.

Can I continue using my main plan/number?

100%! But calls will incur roaming charges. To make free voice calls, use WhatsApp, FaceTime, etc.

Why is my eSIM not activating?

After acquiring and verifying the compatibility of the eSIM with our mobile device, we must scan the QR code with the device where we want the eSIM. WARNING: This code can only be scanned once. Ensure you have a stable network connection throughout the process, and you should be good to go! If problems persist after following these steps, contact us at info@airtime.cl

What security measures do eSIMs have?

They have the same security measures as physical SIMs. However, it is important to note that the information stored on the SIMs/eSIMs is not personal, but rather the provider's information.

Could my internet connection with my Airtime eSIM slow down?

In rare cases, yes. Operators have an international measure called Fair Usage Policy (FUP). This measure applies for up to one (1) day to control internet usage and ensure optimal connection for all users. This is unrelated to Airtime! But don't worry! If this measure is applied to you, it will be removed the next day, and you will regain the original speed of your plan.

Can I share data with other devices?

Yes, in some countries, you can share up to 500MB of data per day between devices by creating a Wi-Fi connection using your smartphone. Check your device instructions for guidance on how to set up a Wi-Fi hotspot.

Can I use eSIM on different devices?

No, as it can only be activated once and on one device. eSIMs are non-transferable.

Does eSIM technology affect device performance?

No, it's exactly the same as a traditional SIM.

I deleted or lost the QR code of my eSIM, what should I do?

Don't worry! Contact us by email at info@airtime.cl or through the chat +56993335501 and we will resend the code.

What happens to my eSIM if I lose my device?

In the case of needing a change of device, SIMs are not transferred. However, they can be recovered by contacting the corresponding provider.

Are eSIMs compatible with e-watches?

If you have an e-watch compatible with eSIM technology, it can be used. However, since it doesn't have a camera, installation must be done manually using the activation code.

Can I connect to the internet via eSIM on a plane or boat?

If you're within the range of a signal antenna, yes, you can. But if not, it won't be possible.

The eSIM QR code doesn't work, what should I do?

If your eSIM QR code doesn't work during installation and you experience errors, these could be due to compatibility issues, operator restrictions, network connection, or configuration. Here we will explain the most common errors, their causes, and how to effectively resolve them.

iPhone:

1. This code is no longer valid

If you get the message 'Cannot add eSIM: This code is no longer valid' when installing your eSIM, it could be that the Wi-Fi network you're connected to is unstable, or the installation may have already been completed on your device. Follow these steps to fix it:

• Connect to a stable Wi-Fi network to ensure continuous internet access, which is essential for scanning the QR code correctly.• Check on your device if the eSIM has already been installed. If you see an icon like this: '!!!!' (the network) at the top of your screen, the installation is likely complete and you just need to activate it.

2. If you receive the message 'Cannot activate eSIM' when installing your eSIM on iPhone, it may be that the QR code is misprinted or your iPhone is locked by your operator.

3. If you receive the message 'eSIM not compatible' when installing your eSIM on iPhone, your iPhone may be locked by your operator.

If your phone is locked by your operator, how to unlock a mobile? If it's compatible and locked, you need to contact your original operator and request to unlock the phone. This is done quickly and free of charge. Once your phone is unlocked, you can configure your eSIM. If the issue is with the code and not the device

Download PDF with Installation Instructions

Download the PDF with eSIM installation instructions.

Download here