Smart Communications Inc. (Smart) on Monday, July 10, launched the Philippines’ first prepaid eSIM, a digital version of the physical SIM card.

The eSIM allows for a quick and hassle-free way for mobile users to access local data, call, and text services without having to insert a physical SIM card into their devices, said Smart.

Customers simply scan the Smart Prepaid eSIM, which comes in the form of a unique QR code containing a Smart Prepaid account number, to connect to data, call, and text services.

The Smart Prepaid eSIM initially comes in the form of a printed card.

However, subscribers will soon have the option to receive their eSIM in digital form, such as via email or voucher.

Smart said that because there’s no physical SIM card, eSIM users don’t have to worry about the lack of a SIM slot in their device as well as losing or damaging their main physical SIM.

They can switch between two or more accounts or SIM profiles in just one device.

It is also well-suited for inbound foreign tourists or returning Overseas Filipino Workers who can now quickly activate local mobile services without the often-tedious process of swapping or changing their main physical SIM with a local SIM.

Unlike roaming services that only cover mobile internet, the Smart Prepaid eSIM enables tourists to make calls and send text messages.

Having a local eSIM also gives them access to local rates that are significantly more affordable than roaming rates, said Smart.

The Smart Prepaid eSIM is available for P99 in major airports, Smart Stores nationwide, accredited retailers, the Smart Online Store, and Smart flagship stores on Lazada and Shopee.

Smart initially made the eSIM available to postpaid subscribers in 2021.

The Smart Prepaid eSIM is compatible with eSIM-capable devices, such as the latest flagship handsets of Apple, Google, Huawei, and Samsung, tablets, and smartwatches.

Just like the regular Smart Prepaid SIM, the eSIM version also comes with up to 21 GB FREE data, which subscribers can claim by first, activating and registering their eSIM; and second, by downloading the Smart GigaLife App to conveniently manage their prepaid account.