Frequently Asked Questions

All Questions

Use the search box to filter questions, or browse all questions below. For plan-specific questions, refer to the selection matrix.

• What does eSIM stand for?

  eSIM stands for 'embedded SIM'. It refers to a SIM card that is permanently embedded in your device's hardware and can be reprogrammed remotely, unlike a traditional removable SIM card.

• What is a mobile network operator (MNO)?

  A mobile network operator is a company that owns and operates the physical infrastructure (towers, spectrum) of a mobile network. Airallo Mobile partners with MNOs in each country to provide local data connectivity.

• What is a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO)?

  An MVNO is a company that provides mobile services by leasing network capacity from MNOs, rather than owning its own infrastructure. Airallo Mobile operates as an MVNO reseller.

• What is data roaming?

  Data roaming occurs when your device connects to a mobile network outside your home operator's coverage area. Traditional roaming can be expensive; eSIM plans are designed to provide affordable data without roaming surcharges.

• What is a SIM profile?

  A SIM profile is the digital configuration stored on your eSIM that identifies your plan and allows your device to connect to a specific network. Each eSIM plan corresponds to one SIM profile.

• What is LTE?

  LTE (Long-Term Evolution) is the technical standard for 4G mobile networks. It provides significantly faster data speeds than 3G. Most of our plans support LTE where available.

• What is network latency?

  Network latency is the time it takes for data to travel from your device to a server and back, measured in milliseconds. Lower latency means a more responsive connection, important for video calls and online gaming.

• What is a data cap?

  A data cap is the maximum amount of data included in a plan. Once the cap is reached, data may be throttled or cut off depending on the plan terms.

• What is eSIM provisioning?

  eSIM provisioning is the process of downloading and installing a SIM profile onto your device's embedded SIM chip. This is done by scanning a QR code or using an activation code.

• What is a coverage map?

  A coverage map is a visual representation of the geographic areas where a mobile network provides service. Our coverage maps are available on the Service Area page.

Glossary of eSIM Terms

eSIM

Embedded SIM — a digital SIM card built into your device that can be programmed remotely without a physical card swap.

QR Code

A machine-readable code used to download and install an eSIM profile onto your device.

MVNO

Mobile Virtual Network Operator — a company that provides mobile services by leasing capacity from physical network operators.

MNO

Mobile Network Operator — a company that owns and operates physical mobile network infrastructure.

APN

Access Point Name — a gateway setting that connects your device to the internet through a mobile network.

LTE

Long-Term Evolution — the technical standard for 4G mobile networks, offering speeds typically between 10–100 Mbps.

Dual SIM

A device capability allowing two SIM profiles (typically one physical SIM and one eSIM) to be active simultaneously.

Data throttling

The intentional reduction of internet speeds after a data usage threshold is reached.

Validity period

The time window during which a data plan is active, beginning from the date of first use.

Top-up

An additional data purchase that extends the allowance on an existing active plan.