The National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority in Egypt announced the launch eSIM technology In the market for users, after the four mobile service operators completed the necessary tests to activate the service.
eSIM technology is one of the most prominent digital innovations in the field of communications, as it aims to improve the user experience in Egypt.
The launch of this technology comes within the framework of “the device’s endeavor to keep pace with scientific and technological developments in the communications sector, and to provide advanced technical solutions that enhance the growth of the communications market and support the digital transformation process,” according to Official statement.
The idea of the electronic communications chip, eSIM, is based on the presence of a piece similar to the traditional communications chip integrated into the phone, and it cannot be replaced or removed.
eSIM in Egypt
This piece can easily store communications line data, which keeps the user’s line data stored inside his phone, not at risk of damage or loss with the traditional chip.
eSIM allows users to switch between operators through their phones, without the need to obtain a new telecommunications chip, which facilitates the switching process and increases the flexibility of using mobile phones, as it allows the possibility of storing data for up to 10 telecommunications lines, while allowing only two lines to operate at the same time. .
The feature of using the electronic communications chip in Egypt is only available for smartphones, and will not be available at the present time for smart and wearable devices, such as smart watches.
Steps to operate the eSIM
According to the National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority, the customer needs to follow a set of steps to activate the eSIM on his phone in Egypt.
If the user is purchasing a new line, he must go to one of the branches of the mobile service provider and choose the line number he wishes to purchase.
After that, the contract for the eSIM is signed, then the branch employee providing the service prints the QR Code from the internal system, after which the user scans the code with his phone’s camera so that the line data is stored on the chip integrated inside the phone, and his connection to the network begins.
If the user wants to convert his line from the plastic SIM to the eSIM, he will have to go to one of the branches of the companies providing mobile services, hand over the old SIM, sign the eSIM contract, and then follow the same previous steps.
According to the device, the validity of the printed QR code is only 5 days, and if the user does not activate it during that period, he will have to go to the branch again to obtain a new eSIM, by issuing a new code.
The cost of issuing an eSIM in Egypt
The cost of issuing an eSIM for a new line is 350 Egyptian pounds (about $7), while the cost of converting existing SIM cards to electronic ones ranges between 270 and 300 pounds, depending on the service provider.
The advantage of using eSIM cards in Egypt is available to citizens inside the country, but it is not available to tourists and visitors.