Ooredoo Myanmar Offers eSIMs to Subscribers

⚠️ First published in 2024. Some figures may be outdated.

Introduction:

Ooredoo Myanmar has recently announced that it is now offering eSIMs to its subscribers, making it the first telco in Myanmar to support this technology. eSIMs are programmable SIM cards that are embedded in your phone and cannot be removed. They perform the same function as a traditional SIM card but have the potential to make things a lot simpler for most smartphone users. Existing Ooredoo Myanmar subscribers can upgrade to eSIM at no charge, while customers in need of a new SIM can buy eSIMs at the same price as physical SIM cards.

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM is a virtual SIM card that you can set up with nothing more than a Wi-Fi connection, provided you have a compatible phone. It is a small chip embedded in your handset that you can’t remove and put in another phone. The information on an eSIM is rewritable, which means you can change your network without removing your SIM and inserting a new one.

How to Get an eSIM?

The process of purchasing and installing eSIMs is straightforward. Customers can obtain a QR code from the Ooredoo SuperApp or website and follow the instructions to install the eSIM directly to their device. Alternatively, they can visit the usual mobile shops if they need help installing it.

Advantages of eSIMs:

Easier to switch networks: An eSIM makes it much easier to switch mobile networks. Instead of needing to order a new SIM, waiting for it to arrive, then inserting it into your phone, you can switch to a different network with a phone call or online. You also won’t need to go hunting for a SIM ‘ejector tool’ to remove the old SIM from your phone.
Temporary change to another network: Up to five virtual SIM cards can be stored on one eSIM at a time. This means you can quickly switch between different networks if you find yourself in an area without a signal on your usual network. It also makes it easier switch to a local network while traveling, without needing to physically insert a local SIM. Using a local mobile network while abroad can be much cheaper than paying roaming costs to your UK network. Not removing your UK SIM from your phone will also reduce the risk of losing it.
Allows you to have more than one SIM: eSIMs also offer the same advantages as dual-SIM phones with two slots for traditional plastic SIMs, the most obvious being that you can have two phone numbers on one device.

Disadvantages of eSIMs:

Lack of physical control: eSIMs do not give one the freedom of the physical control of the SIM card. For instance, you cannot take out the SIM card and put it in the new phone anytime you want. In case your phone gets damaged accidentally, you will have to make a substitute operational in order.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Ooredoo Myanmar’s eSIM service is a significant step towards the future of mobile technology. With more and more modern mobile devices supporting eSIM technology, Ooredoo Myanmar’s eSIM service is among the most globally advanced eSIM services in Myanmar. eSIMs offer several advantages over traditional SIM cards, including easier switching of networks, temporary change to another network, and the ability to have more than one SIM on a single device. However, eSIMs do have some disadvantages, such as lack of physical control.

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