Ncell launched its eSIM service on November 25, 2022. So, you can upgrade to eSIM service for free online. Find out how you can upgrade to Ncell eSIM in 2024, with its activation process, compatible devices, and more in this post.
Table of contents
What is an eSIM?
Let’s first know what is eSIM. eSIM also called an embedded SIM is a next-generation SIM card technology that is different from the regularly used physical SIM cards made of plastic material. An eSIM is embedded inside the phone and also allows users to remotely add or remove operators (SIM profiles) without having to physically swap the SIM cards. So, this service rids you of the need to use a SIM ejector to change SIM cards which can be inconvenient at times.
But there are a few limitations. Since it’s an advanced technology, not all the carriers and smartphones have support for it. For example, China does not support eSIM at all and their phone made for China, have physical SIM slots. An eSIM requires support from both carriers and devices. The setup process could also become hazy for first-time users.
There are multiple use cases for eSIMs. Its use is not limited to smartphones. eSIMs are used in smart wearables, Artificial Intelligence (AI) translators, GPS Tracking, video surveillance devices, etc. Don’t miss: SIM vs. eSIM vs. iSIM
![SIM and eSIM evolution](https://www.nepalitelecom.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/eSIM-explained.png)
How to check 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#.
- If your smartphone displays an EID (Embedded Identity Document) then congratulations. Your device does support eSIM service. An EID (which is different from IMEI) is a unique sequence of numbers attached to your device for eSIM.
![esim eid number check](https://www.nepalitelecom.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/check-eSIM-support-on-phone.jpg)
Have a Read:- Ncell VoLTE is Now Commercially Launched | How to Activate? [2024]
Ncell eSIM Upgrade [2024]
To get an Ncell eSIM or upgrade to it, you need to send an SMS containing your citizenship identity number to “17125”. If your current Ncell SIM is registered in your name, you can upgrade to eSIM with an SMS. Below are the detailed steps to activate or subscribe to the Ncell eSIM service in 2024:
- Type your citizenship number followed by a comma and your email address. The format is <Citizenship Number>comma<email address>
- The format of your SMS shall appear as below:
- xxxxxx-xxx,xyz@abc.com
- The format of your SMS shall appear as below:
- Send the SMS to 17125.
- You get a call from Ncell for confirmation.
- You’ll receive a QR Code in your email to activate the Ncell eSIM on your smartphone.
Now that you get the QR code, you can find the eSIM activation process on your phone.
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 the “Settings app” 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.
MUST READ: MDMS in Nepal | Latest Update for Mobile Device Management at NTA [2024]
How to get Ncell eSIM on iPhones?
If you have an iPhone and want to install an Ncell eSIM, follow the steps below:
- For setting up an eSIM on iPhone, make sure your device has an internet connection; WiFi, or a Cellular Network.
- Head toward the “Settings app” on your iPhone.
- 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”.
How to use Ncell eSIM Abroad?
It’s possible to use Ncell eSIM abroad. While traveling, you can dial *17129# to activate Ncell eSIM if roaming is available for your subscription. Next time, you are out of Nepal and have a compatible device, count on the eSIM service to stay connected with your dear ones back home.
You may want to read: How to Activate International Roaming in Ncell?
Which phones support 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. Let’s find out which Apple, and Samsung devices support the service:
- Apple iPhones: iPhone XS, XR, 11, 12, 13, iPhone 14, and the latest iPhone 15 series. Additionally, the iPhone SE 2 (2020), and SE 3 (2022) can support the virtual SIM profile.
- iPads: 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.
- Samsung Galaxy devices: Samsung Galaxy phones like Note 20, S20, S21 & S22 series can run eSIM. The Galaxy S24 and Galaxy 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-gen eSIM service.
- Google’s Pixel devices also have eSIM support. Pixel phones like Pixel 4, 5, 6, and the 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. Likewise, latest flagship phones including the latest OnePlus 12 smartphone also get the embedded SIM functionality.
The latest iPhones are now eSIM-only models, as with the current US version of the iPhone 15 series. Further, eSIM technology is the only feasible way to use mobile networks for the Internet of Things (IoT) wearable devices.
Ncell eSIM Compared with Ntc
Nepal Telecom, Ncell’s direct competitor also began the eSIM service just some months ago. The eSIM activation is free but customers are required to visit the office 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 eSIM launched, how to activate it?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Ncell eSIM
Yes, Ncell provides eSIM service nationwide.
Ncell eSIM upgrade comes free of cost. The company doesn’t charge any amount for eSIM upgrades.
To convert your regular physical Ncell SIM card into eSIM, you need to type your Citizenship number and email ID and send the SMS to 17125. The SMS will be free and after the verification, your Ncell SIM profile will be converted into an eSIM.
Yes, the dual-SIM card technology allows users to use a regular physical SIM card and an eSIM at the same time. Most premium phones these days should enable you to use both physical SIM and eSIM.
Yes, you can apply for Ncell eSIM from home via an SMS.
Yes. You can convert back to a regular Ncell SIM card or USIM from eSIM with standard charges.
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.