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.

10 months 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.