How to get eSIM working in a snap in the My Telstra app

Say goodbye to little bits of plastic for your connectivity. You can now activate an eSIM in the My Telstra app, so you can get connected in a snap.
Luke Hopewell · 17 May 2024 · 4 minute read

From today, you’ll be able to activate and manage your eSIM for a post-paid and a pre-paid mobile service if you’re on a Consumer or Small Business plan from inside the My Telstra app.

What is eSIM?

eSIM (short for embedded SIM), is a super-convenient evolution in how mobiles, tablets and even smart watches and IoT devices work.

First launched in 2016, eSIMs are essentially SIM cards embedded directly into devices, eliminating the need for physical cards. Unlike traditional SIM cards, which are removable and often require swapping when changing devices or carriers, eSIMs are rewritable and can be reprogrammed in a snap.

So instead of physically inserting a SIM card into your device, eSIMs are programmed right from your device. Additionally, eSIMs boast enhanced security, as they cannot be removed from the device. Plus, it’s eco-friendly, as you won’t need to go through more and more pieces of plastic!

 

eSIM is a convenient time-saver, and means you don’t have to go into a store to change numbers, get a new device or change plans.

It’s also a big deal for sustainability: by replacing more and more plastic SIM cards in favour of eSIMs, we're not only reducing waste but also doing our part to help the planet. It's a win-win for everyone involved.

We’ll still be supporting physical SIM cards if you’re a fan of the old-school approach too. It’s about the flexibility of choice.

To get eSIM working, you’ll need a phone, tablet or smartwatch that comes with eSIM built-in. Check out this list for a guide on whether your device supports eSIM.

If your device has both an eSIM and a physical SIM slot, you can even use two SIMs at once. We’ve got a guide on how to do that on Telstra.com.

We’ll keep refining and enhancing the eSIM experience to make it even more seamless and efficient for you. Because let's face it – when it comes to staying connected, every second counts.

How do I view and manage my Telstra eSIM?

First things first, you’ll need a Telstra service either on pre-paid, or one of our post-paid Consumer and Small Business plans.

To get started managing your eSIM, download the My Telstra app. It’s available for both Android and iOS devices.

Then navigate to the Services tab in the My Telstra app, tap the service you want to manage and follow the steps as required.

For more information about eSIM on Telstra, check our our support page on Telstra.com.

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By Luke Hopewell

Editor, tech expert and Senior Specialist Writer at Telstra Exchange

Luke Hopewell is an editor, tech expert and Senior Specialist Writer at Telstra Exchange. Luke joined Telstra in 2019 where he has had the privilege to help bring stories to life in a unique and human way. He was previously the head of editorial at Twitter Australia and the editor of cult tech site Gizmodo. For over a decade, Luke’s passion for technology has always driven him to seek out the latest gadgets and game-changers, and help others to understand how it all works. In another life he was a cyber security specialist where he sought to educate people about how to stay safe online. When he's not writing, he's getting outdoors and patting all the nice dogs he meets.

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