If you have a smartphone that supports eSIM and don’t want to pay Vodacom an extra fee for using it, then you can now make use of Telkom’s free eSIM support. Up to now, getting an eSIM has been a hassle. It has been limited to specific carriers, devices and extra fees. However, the free Telkom eSIM support is a welcome added service to the country. Now, you can technically have your main phone number on a contract somewhere else and use a Telkom eSIM for just data. Keep in mind that Telkom’s data prices are insanely cheaper than its competitors so this will go a long way enabling more South Africans access to cheaper internet.

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It is important to note that you can either go for a Telkom eSIM on contract, which requires signing up for a phone or data package, or you can opt for the prepaid eSIM. Telkom also doesn’t support wearables just yet so the service is limited to smartphones with eSIM support. Speaking of which, the following phones in South Africa include eSIM hardware in them:

• iPhone Xs, iPhone Xr, iPhone 11/11 Pro/11 Pro Max, iPhone 12/12 Mini/12 Pro/ 12 Pro Max
• Huawei P40 and Mate 40 and Pro devices
• Samsung Note 20, Galaxy S21/S21 +/S21 Ultra,  Galaxy Z Fold2
• 7th Gen iPad and upwards

The only real hassle here is Telkom does require you to go into a store in order to get your eSIM. You can head to any Telkom store with your ID and proof of address in order to FICA the number and get a pre-paid eSIM. The Telkom eSIM comes on a piece of paper with a QR code. You need to simply scan the QR code with your eSIM supported smartphone in order to add the plan to your device. iOS and Android have similar methods of doing this.

• iPhone
  • Settings – Mobile Data – Add a Data Plan – Scan the QR Code and install the Telkom eSIM
• Android
  • Settings – Network and Internet – Mobile Network – Add carrier and scan QR Code then wait for the Telkom eSIM to activate

After this process completes, your phone will now show two SIM cards installed on it. You can then add data to the number and toggle which SIM you want to use for voice and data. You can also choose which SIM card to use when dialling out. Telkom offers affordable data rates that start at R40 for 1GB, R300 for 3GB and 5GB + 5GB for R301. Find out more on the official Telkom site.

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