eSIM Movistar: All you need to know

Technology evolves with giant steps, and now we will be able to travel around the world without having to spend a lot of money on data. Roaming’s evolution is here to stay and we will explain everything you need to know about a Movistar eSIM.

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM or Virtual eSIM is a new technology that will replace conventional SIM cards. Its format is much smaller than usual, it’s 90% smaller than a nano-SIM. Thanks to this, manufacturers have decided to install it directly in the devices they sell.

Its name is not “electronic SIM” as it may appear, it is. In this case, we are talking about “embedded SIM” because, as we mentioned before, it is integrated into your electronic device: laptop, tablet, smartphone, smartwatch, etc.

The eSIM will be attached from the manufacturer to your device (hardware), and on the other hand, you will have to download the software to connect to the corresponding operator’s network.

Wich devices support an eSIM in Movistar

At the time, Movistar allows this technology with iPhone X, XS, Max, XR, and iPad Pro. Also, you may use it with Samsung Galaxy Watch. Movistar informs that with new technology, they will continue expanding their offers in the market.

Regarding the Apple watch, you won’t need an eSIM, a QR code will be enough. Once you have this step worked out, you will only need to configure it from your “Watch” app on your iPhone. Then, you have to go to “mobile data configuration”, put in your Movistar user name and password, and accept the terms and conditions of the MultiSIM service.

Where to find a Movistar eSIM?

You will have several options. For one, you can locate your nearest Movistar store or call 1004 to activate your service. Just choose the option that best suits you.

The price with Movistar to activate your eSIM with MultiSIM is 11€, and you can have up to 3 additional eSIMs. Once it’s activated, you have to pay 6€ a month for the service. 

Activating an eSIM with Movistar

As most devices are Apple, we will begin explaining how to activate eSIM on an iPhone.

• Activation card: Movistar will give provide you with codes, which are called “activation card”. This way, you will get a PIN (personal identification number), a PUK (personal unlocking key) and a QR code. 

• Downloading the eSIM: As if we were talking of an app, you have to download your eSIM to use your phone in other countries. First of all, you have to make sure that your device has iOS 12.1 or later version. Once you confirm this, you have to go to: settings, mobile data, add mobile plan. Then scan your QR code as it appears on your activation card given to you by Movistar and press “confirm” on your device to continue the process.

Configuring eSIM with Apple Watch

When talking about Apple Watch, we have to add a couple of steps which we will explain briefly. Since it will be configured with your iPhone, the eSIM card must first be activated to correctly continue the process. The device must also have an iOS 12.2 operating system and be an iPhone 6 or older. 

To continue, the watch must be a series 3 or 4, with a watchOs 5.2 or older.

• First, confirm your iPhone is connected to the internet.
• Then, activate bluetooth in settings.
• Activate your Apple Watch pressing the side button so it is turned on.
• Now bring your watch close to the phone, so it will appear “use iPhone to configure this Apple Watch”. You should then press “start” to continue the process.
• Once this is done, bring the watch in front of the phone to see if there is a message indicating they are connected.
• Finally, just configure your Apple Watch as you wish and accept all the “terms and conditions”.

Configuring eSIM to Samsung Galaxy Watch

As with an Apple Watch, you must have the following requirements met in order to configure an eSIM card in a Samsung Galaxy Watch. First, you will need an Android 5.0/iPhone 5 (with at least iOS 9) and 1.5 GB RAM or more. Then, go to settings, connections, Bluetooth and see if the option is available during the process. 

Then, verify that the phone is connected to the internet and the Galaxy Watch has enough charge for the process of configuration. If by any chance, you are already using this on another device, just go to “add new phone”. 

Once this step is done, we will explain how to activate an eSIM card in a Galaxy Watch:

• First, activate the Galaxy Wearable app from your phone.
• Then pair your watch to the phone you are using and press “connect to new Wearable”.
• Now connect to the network with the QR code. When you find the correct mobile network, press “use code” to activate it with the QR scanning system.
• Scan the QR code.
• To finish, connect the device and you will be able to make and receive calls from your Galaxy Watch.

If you have any doubts, just go to the Movistar webpage. It is actually not a difficult process, but on behalf of Roami we suggest that, if something comes up, contact the Samsung customer service to clarify any doubts you may have.

eSIM Movistar: Frequently asked questions

• Can I change my eSIM to another device? Right now, you may only activate it on one device for security reasons. There is a possibility to activate the MultiSIM service by getting a second phone line, but you won’t be able to use different devices with just one phone number.
• If I reset my device, do I have to re-install my eSIM? It’s important you understand that your eSIM data cannot be erased from your device. So, if you have to reset, you don’t have to worry.
• Can I erase my eSIM and then re-install it? Yes. The only requirement is that you have the QR code Movistar gave you when you got the eSIM card. If you don’t have this code, you have to go to a Movistar store to get a new one.
• Can I change my eSIM profile on one device? Yes, but it’s not as simple as just pressing a button and changing it. You have to go to: settings, mobile data, cancel mobile data plan, confirm. Then, you have to configure it again and change your profile. 
• Can I block the eSIM in case my device is lost or stolen? In this case, you have to do as you would with a stolen or lost SIM. That is, call 1004 and explain the situation, block the line and ask for a new activation card to use your device as soon as possible. 

Alternatives to a Movistar eSIM

When traveling abroad, we always want to spend as little as possible and have as much fun as possible, but you may not have a device that allows you to use this new technology. For this situation, in Roami we have found some alternatives for an eSIM card. 

Using the usual roaming service shouldn’t be a problem, but its high price is usually an inconvenience, as the MB usually costs around 12€. To avoid overpaying on your trip, we have found an eSIM card with Holafly that will allow you to use the internet without hassles. 

Depending on which country you are traveling to, you may enjoy different prices and conditions, that’s why we have prepared a table so you may revise it more easily:

As you can see, the most logical option to choose is the Holafly digital SIM card that most suits you and your needs, and this way, you will save a lot of money if you compare it to other alternatives that might raise the price considerably. 

Herman Rosero

Me desempeño en el área del SEO y Web en Roaming. Creación y optimización de contenido, información de eSIM, roaming internacional y tarjetas SIM para viajar al extranjero. Tengo conocimiento sobre eSIM, marcas, dispositivos, proveedores, operadores. Además de actualizaciones en tarifas del roaming internacional en diferentes países.