eSIM (embedded SIM) technology is slowly gaining traction among mobile network providers and smartphone manufacturers. If you are a Safaricom Subscriber with a compatible smartphone, you can easily switch to an eSIM using the MyAafaricom App—no need for a physical SIM card.
In this guide, you will learn how to set up a Safaricom eSIM using the MySafaricom App. But first, let’s understand what an eSIM is.
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM is a digital SIM that’s embedded directly into your smartphone’s hardware. It holds the essential data your device needs to connect to and use a mobile network. The information on the eSIM is rewritable, that’s why you can easily switch between network operators. If your device supports eSIM, you can easily connect to different networks without needing a physical SIM card.
Unlike the physical SIMs, you don’t have to remove one SIM card from your phone and insert another one whenever you want to switch carriers or subscriber numbers. With an eSIM, everything is handled through your device’s settings. It’s always there, ready to connect to any mobile network you choose. This is very convenient because it enables a seamless connection to mobile networks.
What You Need to Know Before Getting a Safaricom eSIM
- If you’re signing up for a new eSIM rather than swapping it for an existing physical SIM, you’ll go through the standard registration steps, just like when you are getting a physical SIM.
- A new eSIM costs KSH 250 while replacing your current SIM with an eSIM is KSH 150.
- Not all smartphones support eSIM technology currently. To know if your smartphone is compatible, dial *#06# and check if EID number appears. If it doesn’t, it means it’s not eSIM enabled.
- You can’t have the same eSIM and physical SIM subscriber number active at the same time. However, you can have both as different numbers on the same device. An eSIM is treated by the network like a normal SIM card.
- After SIM swap, you will have to open Safaricom’s M-Pesa menu on the STK to activate your M-Pesa account.
How to Activate a Safaricom eSIM Via the MySafaricom App
- Open your MySafaricom App on your smartphone. Make sure the app is up-to-date for the process to be completed successfully.
- Tap on Account at the bottom-right corner of the screen.
- Select Request eSIM from the menu that appears.
- If your device is not eSIM compatible, you will see “Your device is not e-SIM compatible” at the top. If you don’t see it, then proceed.
- Safaricom will send you an email with all the details of your eSIM, including a QR code that you will need to scan.
- Scan the QR code to install the eSIM on your device.
That’s how to activate a Safaricom eSIM on your phone using the MySafaricom App. Alternatively, you can visit any Safaricom shop to get it. You will be provided with a QR code to scan after making the necessary payments and going through the registration process.
Benefits of Using a Safaricom eSIM
- You can easily switch networks on a single device without changing SIM cards. This is convenient for people who use multiple numbers.
- Since there is no physical SIM required, you won’t need to worry about losing or damaging a physical SIM card.
- An eSIM is perfect if you frequently visit different countries and need to use different networks.
- If your smartphone has only one SIM card slot, an eSIM can help you connect with other networks easily.
