MTN spurs digital inclusion in West Africa with e-SIM trial in Nigeria

African telecommunications giant, MTN on Wednesday, July 15th 2020, announced its latest innovation, the embedded SIM (e-SIM).

According to MTN, the introduction of e-SIM is the next step in the evolution of Subscriber Identity Modules (SIM cards).  Designed to deliver unprecedented freedom and flexibility, the e-SIM unlike the physical SIM, does not need to be inserted subscribers' phones, as it is either built into their smartphones, or wearable devices.

All subscribers need to do is to simply activate the e-SIM with their account profile, and they will be ready to enjoy all the services they normally would with a physical SIM.

Benefits of the e-SIM

• e-SIMs allow subscribers to have more than one phone number associated to your smart device. They are particularly useful for people who want to manage personal and business lines simultaneously.
• The possibility of subscribers losing or damaging their SIMs is reduced because it is built into their device.
• Subscribers no longer have to deal with cutting SIM cards or finding adapters.
• It is extremely convenient for frequent travelers; it makes it easier to switch between network operators.

How to activate an eSIM

The eSIM trial will run for one year and is open on a first come first served basis to a limited number of subscribers who own compatible devices.

Subscribers will need to visit any MTN store to have their devices checked by MTN customer care agents for eligibility and be guided through the setup process. Need help finding a store? Visit MTN's Stores Page to find the MTN store nearest you.

Compatible Devices

Brand Compatible Phones

Google:   Pixel 3, 3 XL

      Pixel 4, 4 XL

Apple:   iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max

      iPhone XS, XS Max

      iPhone XR

Samsung:  Samsung S20 Series