MTN switches on its eSIM technology support in South Africa

MTN on Tuesday announced that its eSIM technology support is now live for post-paid customers in South Africa.

The technology, which uses an embedded SIM card instead of the more traditional removable variety, allows devices — like IoT tech and smartwatches — to use mobile networks.

And unlike traditional SIM cards which are locked to their respective networks, can adopt any supporting networks by downloading settings over-the-air.

eSIMs also allow users to host multiple SIM profiles on a single device, swapping between them via a device’s software settings.

iPhones, since the XS and XS Max, have supported the technology. But the first device to take advantage of this for MTN will be Samsung’s Galaxy Watch 42mm.

“These watches are only available to customers purchasing a 2-4-1 deal with the Samsung Galaxy Note10 or Note10+ on the newly upgraded MTN Made For Me or Sky Price plans,” MTN noted in a press release.

MTN’s announcement comes after Vodacom launched its own eSIM support in March.

Data-only network Rain is also “currently working on supporting devices with eSIM” in South Africa, it notes on its customer support page.

Feature image: MTN