How do I make calls with a data-only eSIM?
While eSIMs themselves cannot make phone calls (because phone numbers aren't associated with eSIMs), there are still ways to make and receive phone calls while relying on an eSIM for mobile data.
Here are two different methods:
1. Make and receive calls over the internet using a calling/texting app.
We recommend our sister app, Hushed, where you can buy a temporary phone number in 300+ area codes and use it just like a normal phone line.
2. Rely on your Primary SIM to make and receive calls using your regular phone number, while using an eSIM as your data connection.
- You'll rely on only aloSIM for Cellular Data, so you won't incur roaming charges on your regular phone plan
- Your Default Voice Line will remain "Primary," so you can make/receive calls and texts on your regular phone number
- Your regular SIM (phone number) and your aloSIM plan (eSIM data) will both remain on
Make sure your roaming settings are correct
- Turn Data Roaming ON for your aloSIM plan (so we can connect you to a local network)
- Turn Data Roaming OFF on your primary SIM (so your regular carrier can't charge you roaming fees)
With this option, your provider may charge you for calls and texts sent and received outside of your normal coverage area. (These charges will appear on your next bill, with phone calls charged per minute and texts charged individually.)
You can ask your carrier, prior to your trip, what they charge for calls and texts. Then you can make a decision on whether or not to use your primary mobile number while you're away.
The good news is that using your aloSIM eSIM data will prevent you from racking up roaming charges, so you'll have access to low-cost data that has nothing to do with your carrier.