🌐 The Ultimate Guide to Understanding and Using eSIM — With Umi

“If I pay for an eSIM plan when I travel, will I avoid the crazy charges from my mobile provider?”

Yes — that’s exactly why Umi exists.

But let’s take it from the beginning, so you know exactly what an eSIM is, how it works, and why Umi’s Smart Global eSIM is the easiest way to stay connected — anywhere in the world.

An eSIM is a digital version of a SIM card.

It does the exact same job as a regular plastic SIM — it connects your phone to a mobile network so you can call, text, and use data — but with one big difference:

You don’t need a physical card. It’s already built into your phone.

No more fiddling with tiny trays, no more switching plastic cards. With an eSIM, you just tap a few buttons and you’re online — instantly.

Umi gives you one Smart Global eSIM™ that works in over 200 regions around the world.

All you need to do is:

1. Install your Umi Smart eSIM once and change your phone's settings to account for the new eSIM.

2. Add a plan when you travel — right from your phone.

3. In your phone's settings, change which SIM your mobile data flows through.

4. Connect instantly to local networks — no roaming fees, no stress

Your eSIM stays on your phone forever. Just buy or attach a plan when and where you need it.

Let’s say you’re heading to Italy.

Your regular mobile provider might charge £/$5, £/$10, or even more per day just to use data. Worse, they might hit you with huge roaming fees when you get home.

With Umi:

• You open the Umi app.

• Choose a plan for Italy (or Europe-wide).

• Add it to your Smart eSIM.

• Done. You’re connected as soon as you land.

✅ No physical SIM or eSIM swapping

✅ No hidden charges

✅ No waiting

And your regular number? It still works — if your phone supports dual SIM (most modern phones do), you can use your Umi eSIM for data, while keeping your regular SIM active for calls and texts.

Let’s break it down into steps anyone can follow:

You only need to do this once. We guide you through it in the app. It’s as easy as scanning a QR code or tapping “Add eSIM.”

Going to Spain? Japan? The U.S.? Wherever you’re heading, just tap to add a plan that fits your trip. Short or long-term options — all in your control.

The moment you land, you’re already online. Your Umi eSIM connects to the strongest local network. No roaming, no roaming charges, no delays.

Nope.

You can keep your physical SIM right where it is. Most newer phones (like iPhones since XS and many Androids) support dual SIM. That means:

• SIM 1: Your normal number for calls/texts

• SIM 2: Umi Smart Global eSIM™ for fast, local data anywhere in the world

You can even set Umi as your data SIM while keeping your usual number active for WhatsApp or banking. It all works seamlessly. 

If your phone is less than 4–5 years old, it probably supports eSIM.

Here’s how to check:

Go to Settings → Mobile Data → Add eSIM

If you see that option, you’re good to go.

Settings may vary, but check under Network & Internet → SIMs → Add Mobile Plan or similar.

Still not sure? Just open the Umi app — it’ll tell you instantly if your phone is compatible.

Umi plans are data-only for now, so you don’t get a new number. That’s why they’re perfect for travel or as a secondary backup — your current number stays active, and you avoid international calling fees by using WhatsApp, iMessage, and email.

Yes. You can load multiple plans on your Umi eSIM — ideal for frequent travellers.

While you can install your Umi eSIM via your primary SIM mobile data, We recommend installing via WiFi as its the most stable internet connection, 

Yes. eSIMs are protected by your device’s hardware and software. You don’t risk losing or damaging a plastic SIM, and no one can “borrow” it.

Unlike typical travel eSIMs that are one-time-use and tied to a single region, Umi’s Smart eSIM is dynamic and reusable.

You install it once — and that’s it. No deleting. No reinstalling. Just add new plans as you go.

Change countries, not SIMs.

With Umi, you’re simply layering new plans onto your Smart eSIM — like updating an app instead of reinstalling it.

Before Umi

You’re on a 2-week holiday. You either:

• Pay your home provider’s £10/day roaming fee (that’s £140!)

• Or land in another country and scramble to find a local SIM card kiosk — and hope it works.
  
  

With Umi

You add a plan in 30 seconds from the app. It activates as soon as your plane touches down. You’re connected before you even grab your bags.

Umi is built for modern travellers, remote workers, digital nomads, expats, power-users, and anyone tired of their mobile provider’s outdated pricing.

• 🌍 Works in 200+ regions

• 🔄 Add plans anytime

• 📲 No more SIM swapping

• 💸 No more roaming charges

• 🧠 No more confusion

Once you use Umi, you’ll wonder why you didn’t switch sooner.

Download the Umi app, install your Smart eSIM, and connect globally in minutes — no physical SIM, no contract, no limits.

Still have questions? We’ve got answers. Just reach out in the app — or check out our simple guides.