What you need to know about eSIM with Spark | Spark NZ (2024)

FAQs

How does eSIM work spark? ›

An eSIM is an embedded SIM card that's built into your phone, tablet or watch that connects your device to the mobile network without having to carry around multiple SIM cards. eSIM is the future of mobile connectivity, and it's sustainable.

If you are using an eSIM and you need to change phones, you will have to contact your local phone provider to enquire how to transfer your eSIM, if that's even possible. While Android and iOS have eSIM transfer tools, not all carriers allow an eSIM transfer.

An eSIM is a digital version of the physical SIM card—identifying your device virtually to provide network connection. It's programmable remotely via software and is built into newer smartphones, meaning you wouldn't have to go purchase a new SIM card if you wanted to swap phones or wireless carriers.

Yes. Installing a New Zealand eSIM does not replace your existing phone plan, but adds a new secondary data plan. You can keep using your regular number separately from the eSIM, or with apps like WhatsApp and iMessage.

Your eSIM phone number is either a phone number included with your eSIM data package, or an internet phone number you're using with your eSIM. Some people use their regular phone number for calls and texts, while using an eSIM for data.

Can an eSIM be tracked? It's possible to track eSIMs, but they aren't more trackable than physical SIM cards. Mobile device tracking primarily relies on the device's unique international mobile equipment identifier (IMEI) number, not the type of SIM card used.

The short answer is no, not really. An eSIM itself doesn't use more battery than a physical SIM. However, if you're using your phone with two lines (one eSIM and one physical SIM), your phone must maintain a connection to two networks. This can use more battery because your phone is doing extra work.

Now, let's address the burning question: does installing an eSIM change your phone number? The answer is generally no. When you install an eSIM, it doesn't directly alter your phone number. Your phone number remains the same, and you can continue to use it as you normally would.

Yes, eSIMs work without the internet. However, an eSIM requires internet for activation, so it's recommended to activate the eSIM plan just before you leave for your trip.

International roaming with an eSIM works the same as roaming with a physical SIM. Your carrier might offer the ability to digitally manage your eSIM plan and add more data as needed. To learn more, contact your carrier.

Why is eSIM not popular? ›

Lack of Consumer Awareness. The lack of eSIM awareness and its benefits poses a significant barrier to adoption. Educating consumers about eSIM functionality, such as remote provisioning and network flexibility, is crucial.

To use your phone in New Zealand, you'll need a $5 prepaid Spark SIM or Spark eSIM (free).

2degrees customers have access to the eSIM feature on certain mobile devices with set-up simply requiring the scanning of a QR code. Like Spark, 2degrees supports eSIM for both business and private customers. However, unlike Spark, 2degrees does not support eSIM for wearable tech such as smartwatches yet.

New Zealand eSIM, from $4.50 USD | World's first eSIM store · Airalo.

An eSIM is an industry-standard digital SIM that allows you to activate a cellular plan from your carrier without having to use a physical SIM. You can install eight or more eSIMs on an iPhone and use two phone numbers at the same time.

What Happens to Your Physical SIM Card When You Switch to eSIM? When you switch to eSIM, your physical SIM card becomes obsolete. Your mobile device will no longer recognize the physical SIM card and you will no longer be able to use it to connect to a cellular network.