How do I text with a data-only eSIM?
It's easy to text with a data-only eSIM, but how you text depends on the device you're using.
iPhone users can rely on iMessage.
Since iMessage only requires a Wi-Fi or data connection, it's perfect for data-only eSIMs. (After all, no phone number is required for your seven-year-old niece to iMessage you a long string of emojis.)
Check your iMessage configurations to make sure it's using your Apple ID (versus your phone number), and it may need a quick reset to get it working correctly.
iPhone or Android users can text with Hushed.
Hushed is our sister app, and it lets you create a temporary phone number in one of 300+ area codes for private calling and texting. Choose a low-cost monthly, pay-as-you-go plan, or prepaid plan to get started calling and texting right away.
iPhone or Android users can text with their regular number.
Yes, texting with your regular phone number (while relying on aloSIM for data) is absolutely an option. Here's what you need to do:
1. Choose aloSIM for "Cellular Data" (and keep "Allow Cellular Data Switching" off)
2. Keep your Default Voice Line set to "Primary" (your real number)
3. Keep your Primary plan and your aloSIM plan both ON (so your phone number and your eSIM data both remain active)
4. Make sure your roaming settings are correct (to avoid roaming charges)
- 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 expensive roaming fees)
5. Expect to pay for calling minutes and texts
If you're outside of your usual coverage zone, your home carrier will likely charge you for individual texts and active calling minutes.
They will *not* be able to charge you roaming fees as long as you keep Data Roaming "OFF" for your primary SIM, so the charges will likely be low, but it's a good idea to ask about their texting/calling minute charges ahead of your trip.