iPhone

Instant Travel eSIM Access: A Must-Have iPhone Feature for Globetrotters

Proposed feature would allow iPhones to instantly purchase and activate local eSIMs when traveling abroad, eliminating roaming charges.

1 month ago

Feature Request for Apple iPhones: Instant Access to Overseas eSIMs

Problem:

Travelers often face large data roaming bills when using their iPhones abroad, making it necessary to secure a local data plan.

Current Solutions:

Pre-book a roaming plan from the existing carrier with daily fees.
Use dedicated eSIM apps to purchase a local eSIM before or during travel.
Buy an eSIM online or on arrival from a local carrier.

Personal Solution:

The author uses the Revolut app, which offers cost-effective eSIMs for travel. The process involves navigating through the Revolut app to access and purchase an eSIM when connected to Wi-Fi.

Feature Proposal:

The article suggests that Apple should offer a built-in feature in iPhones to provide instant access to local eSIMs when traveling. This would work as follows:

Upon detecting the user is in another country, the iPhone would prompt with a popup to purchase a local eSIM.
Users could choose from options provided by all local carriers, and purchases would be processed via Apple Pay.
If data runs out, another popup would offer top-up options.
A default network would provide enough free usage to complete the purchase process if no Wi-Fi is available.