What is a SIM card?

A SIM card is a physical, removable card that is inserted into mobile phones, smartphones, or other devices. A SIM card connects phones to network providers.

The SIM card stores some specific information of the user, such as contacts and text messages, which plays a crucial role in securing the communication between the mobile device and the network.

How does a SIM card work?

When a user inserts a SIM card into a mobile device and turns it on, the device communicates with the mobile network, and the network authenticates the user by verifying the information stored on the SIM card. This process allows the user to make calls, send messages, and access mobile data services.

What are types of SIM cards?

SIM cards come in various sizes, including standard SIM, micro SIM, and nano SIM, with the latter being the smallest and most commonly used in modern smartphones. Additionally, the eSIM is getting popular, which is embedded into the device and can be programmed with different carrier profiles without the need for a physical card.


What’s the difference between SIM card and eSIM?

Both SIM card and eSIM cards provide network connectivity, however, there are some differences between them.

The primary difference between a SIM card and an eSIM is that the eSIM is embedded into the device, while a SIM card can be removed or replaced. Here are some additional major differences:

SIM card:

  • Need to do physical swapping of the card

  • Cannot be remotely programmed or changed

  • Some devices support up to two SIM card in the same device

  • Will be replaced in case of loss or damage

  • Can be inserted in a wide range of devices

eSIM:

  • Embedded into the hardware of the device

  • Do not have to swapping physical card

  • Can be programmed or updated remotely

  • Several eSIMs can be embedded into the same device

  • Do not need to worry about loss, as long as the device is not lost

  • Not all devices are compatible with eSIM, please check what devices support eSIM


How to use SIM card

Using a SIM card during your travels is straightforward. Follow this easy guide to get set up:

Getting Started

  1. Insert the SIM Card: Carefully place the new SIM card into the designated slot in your phone.

  2. Activate Data Roaming: Go to your phone’s settings. Look for the options labeled "Mobile Data" or "Cellular Networks" and turn on data roaming. This is essential for using your phone while you are traveling.

  3. Set Up APN (If Needed): If you're connected to the network but can't access the internet, your APN settings might need adjusting. You can usually find and configure these settings in your phone. For APN details to use Textr SIM card, click here.

  4. Start Using Data: Once your phone is connected to the network, you’re ready to browse the internet and use data services.


Follow our easy instructions for iOS or Android to activate Textr SIM card.


Reusable SIM card

Your Textr SIM card can be used many times. If you plan to use it again, keep it. Adding new data plans is simple through the Textr eSIM website or our iOS and Android apps. Here’s what to do:

  1. Pick the data plan you need and go to checkout.

  2. When it asks which SIM card to add the plan to, select "Physical SIM Card."

  3. On the checkout page, you'll see "Top up on Device 1" with "Physical SIM Card" as the SIM type.

  4. Complete the purchase by following the checkout steps.


Designed Exclusively for Mobile Phones

This SIM card comes in three sizes: standard, micro, and nano, to ensure compatibility with a wide range of mobile phones. However, it's important to note that it is not compatible with pocket Wi-Fi devices, or MiFi.