Ncell launched its eSIM (Embedded Subscriber Identity Module) service on November 25, 2022, for all smartphone users in Nepal. The company made its next-generation SIM technology live on November 25, 2022. The service while will be free will only work on phones with support for an eSIM. Let’s find out more about Ncell eSIM compatibility, availability, and supported smartphones. and how to activate it on phones, including other information.
Ncell eSIM launches in Nepal
Ncell is Nepal’s largest private mobile network, and its eSIM service was anticipated for a long time. Keeping with its commitment to introducing innovative technologies and services, Ncell says they are delighted to introduce the eSIM service to its customers. As eSIM is likely to grow in the coming years, the company expects an increase in both the subscribers and business markets. The operator believes that the launch of eSIM in Ncell will be essential to the development of Nepal’s whole ICT ecosystem.
What is an eSIM?
eSIM is an embedded SIM inside a device which is a different technology from regularly used physical SIM cards made of plastic material. An eSIM is an integral part of the phone itself. Unlike, traditional SIM cards, it works within the device and is useful for Machine-to-Machine (M2M) which is direct communication between devices using any communications channel, including wired and wireless mediums.
An eSIM also allows users to remotely add or remove operators (SIM profiles) without having to physically swap the SIM cards.
For an eSIM to work, it requires support from both carriers and devices. To note, eSIM is not only limited to mobile phones, it is also used in smart wearables, AI translators, GPS Tracking, video surveillance devices, etc.
Have a Read:- Ncell VoLTE is Now Commercially Launched | How to Activate
How to know if my phone supports eSIM?
To check whether your device is eSIM-compatible or not, you need to follow the steps below:
- Launch your phone’s dial pad.
- Now, dial *#06#.
- It will show you an EID (Embedded Identity Document) number if your smartphone supports it. An EID is a unique sequence of numbers attached to your device for eSIM.
How to Activate Ncell eSIM in Nepal?
To get an Ncell eSIM, you need to send an SMS containing your citizenship identity number to 17125. Below are the detailed steps to activate or subscribe to the Ncell eSIM service:
- First, go to your phone’s SMS and type your citizenship identity number and email address. The format is <CItizenship Number>comma<email address>
- And send it to 17125.
- Now, Ncell will call you for confirmation.
- You’ll get a QR Code in your email to activate the Ncell eSIM on your smartphone.
- Note: Ncell users can request for eSIM upgrade via SMS for free. (No Charges Levied)
How to activate Ncell eSIM on my Android phone?
To install eSIM on an Android smartphone, you can go through these steps:
- First, go to Settings on your smartphone.
- Find “SIM Cards & Mobile Networks ” or similar settings like “Connection or Mobile Network”.
- Then, tap on “SIM Card Manager”.
- Click on the “Add Mobile Plan” option.
- Then select the “Scan carrier QR code” option.
- After registration, tap “OK” to turn on/activate a new mobile plan.
- And this will generate the eSIM profile on your phone.
Also, Read:- How to Activate International Roaming in Ncell?
How to get Ncell eSIM on iOS iPhones?
- For setting up an eSIM, make sure your device has an internet connection; WiFi, or Cellular Network.
- Head toward the Settings.
- Tap on the Cellular option.
- Select Add Data/Cellular plan.
- Scan the eSIM QR code you receive from the carrier.
- Tap on the “Add Data Plan” option and save the eSIM details.
- Customize the name of the plan, and select “Continue”.
- Choose the carrier as the default line and select “Continue”.
- Select the carrier as the default mobile data line and tap Done.
Which phones support Ncell eSIM?
Select iPhone and Samsung Galaxy handsets that support Ncell eSIM. As the technology is still new to Nepal, it will take time for telcos to add support to more devices however the process shouldn’t take long. Major flagship phones and other devices come with eSIM support and thankfully the number is only growing in the current days.
For now, eSIM is supported in Apple devices such as iPhone XS, XR, 11, 12, 13 series, iPhone 14, and the latest iPhone 15 series. Additionally, the iPhone SE 2 (2020), and SE 3 (2022) have the capability to support the virtual SIM profile.
Likewise, the iPad series from 3rd Gen to the present, and the Apple Watch Series since 3, have the support of an eSIM. The US and Canada variants of the iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 series have support for two active eSIMs.
Similarly, Samsung Galaxy phones like Note 20, S20, S21 & S22 series can run eSIM. The upcoming S23 series will also carry the support. Similarly, Samsung’s Galaxy Fold base model, LTE variant, Fold 3, Fold2 5G, Fold3 5G, Flip3 5G, Flip3 5G Fold, Galaxy Note 20 FE 5G, and Galaxy Note 20FE are also able to use the next-gent eSIM service.
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Ncell eSIM will work on some Google Pixel, Huawei, and other phones
Google’s Pixel devices also have eSIM support. Pixel phones like Pixel 4, 5, 6, and the latest Pixel 7 series also have support for eSIMs but these devices haven’t officially entered the Nepalese market yet. But if you still get any of these devices, then you will be able to use an eSIM for your mobile services.
Huawei P40, and P50 Series, Oppo Find X3 Series, Reno 5A, Find X5 Series, and A55s also have eSIM connectivity. If you use a Sony smartphone, then you are also in luck. Sony Experia 1 IV, 5 IV, 10 III Kutem, and 10 IV are compatible with the embedded SIM.
The upcoming iPhones are also going to be eSIMs-only models, as with the current US version of the iPhone 14 series. Further, eSIM technology is the only feasible way to use mobile networks for the Internet of Things (IoT) wearable devices.
Nepal Telecom, Ncell’s direct competitor has already begun the service just some months ago. The eSIM activation is free but customers are required to visit the office in order to activate NTC eSIM. Ncell has provided a rather hassle-free SMS activation service and it won’t incur any charges either.
Do Read: Ntc Launches eSIM, How to Get One for Your Smartphone?
If you want to activate Ncell eSIM on your phone, do let us know in the comments below. We will be more than happy to guide you through the steps.
