Ubigi eSIM Review: IoT and roaming connectivity

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Transatel, the head of Ubigi, has been active for several years in the sale of SIM cards, similar to those offered by its competitor Truphone. Related to this, IoT is one of the challenges for these companies, which have the power to connect globally in their hand’s thanks to their special roaming agreements. The Ubigi eSIM is a technology that has arrived in recent years to facilitate this expansion process by allowing central control and management of these virtual cards.

In this article we are going to tell you everything you need to know about the Ubigi eSIM, how it works, countries included, operational characteristics, how to recharge it, besides the installation process and the best part: real opinions of users who have already had a good or bad experience with this company. Finally, you will learn a bit about the founders of Ubigi, their history and frequently asked questions answered.

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Contents

What is Ubigi?

Ubigi is a global mobile connectivity service provider offering eSIM. Ubigi provides a free eSIM profile as well as local, regional and international eSIM prepaid data plans; high-end cellular connectivity, which includes eSIMs in over 170 countries around the world and an extensive range of affordable prepaid data plans for smartphones, tablets, laptops and cars. 

Ubigi has been a pioneer in the eSIM market and has collaborated with Apple and Microsoft offering its services for eSIM with iOS and Windows 10 devices, the purpose is to get your travellers, digital nomads and business professionals connected to the internet wherever and whenever.

In addition to the services mentioned above Ubigi offers global connectivity solutions for car brands such as Jeep, Jaguar and Land Rover. The plans work with an Ubigi SIM card inserted into the cars, users can connect to the internet and activate the functions for connectivity and navigation from their vehicle’s infotainment operating system.

Ubigi user reviews

These are some experiential reviews of the brand, you can see them from the official Ubigi website:

I just used Ubigi for the first time with a data plan for Spain, 30 days 10 GB. It worked perfectly, amazing how easy it was to set up and even before boarding my plane from Mexico City to Madrid, Spain I had everything ready on my iPhone to start using it. No more landing and having to find a shop to buy a physical SIM card.

Bb Chahal: Canada

The service works perfectly and I had to contact support for something I did wrong and the help was excellent. Fast and accurate.

Angel Losada F: Mexico

Ubigi Products and Services

Ubigi eSIM

esim with ubigi
Global connection in over 170 countries with eSIM Ubigi

eSIM Ubigi allows you to connect to the internet in over 170 countries around the world through operating systems such as IOS, Android and Windows, ideal for travellers, digital nomads and business professionals. It is ninety per cent cheaper than traditional roaming, it is a transparent technology as secure as some airport WIFI hotspots for example. 

Here’s what you need to do step by step to get a free eSIM profile, install the eSIM and create a personal account that allows you to manage your Ubigi plans.

How do I access a free Ubigi eSIM profile?

iOS

  1. First, download the official Ubigi app from the App Store.
  2. Launch your Ubigi app.
  3. If your iPhone supports eSIM, you will see the “Activate my eSIM” button. Click it.
  4. Click to get a free Ubigi eSIM.
  5. Tap “Install your eSIM profile”.

IOS Ipad

  1. First, connect your iPad to Wi-Fi and download the official Ubigi app from the App Store. You can go to the App Store or scan to download the app.
  2. Launch your Ubigi app, if your iPad supports eSIM, you will see the message “Activate my eSIM”. you can click there.
  3. Launch your Ubigi application
  4. If your iPad supports eSIM, you will see the message “Activate my eSIM”. Click there.
  5. Click “Get a free Ubigi eSIM.
  6. Tap “Install your eSIM profile.

Android

  1. Fill in the form with your details from the website.
  2. Specific details of your profile will be sent to the email you have notified, including QR code and ICCID. 
  3. Once received you have 15 minutes maximum to scan the QR code and install your eSIM profile which is sent to you via email, don’t forget to check SPAM. Follow the installation instructions described on the website.

Windows 10

  1. Open the network side menu and make sure the Cellular option is active.
  2. Click on the “Cellular network icon”, then click on “Connect to a data plan”.
  3. The Mobile Plans application will open and display the available operators in your area.
  4. Click on “Ubigi”.
  5. Then click on “Get Connectivity”.
  6. Click on “Get my free profile”.
  7. Complete the simple information form
  8. Click on “Install my eSIM profile”.

How do I install my Ubigi eSIM profile on different operating systems?

IOS

Time needed: 15 minutes

Once you have finished downloading the Ubigi mobile application from your iPhone you must choose the data plan that best suits your requirements and follow these steps.

  1. Download and open the Ubigi application.

     Do it from the Play Store.

  2. Compatibility message

     If your iPhone is eSIM compatible then you will get a message “activate my eSIM” click on it.

  3. Get Ubigi profile for free

    Click on get Ubigi profile for free.

  4. Install the eSIM profile

    Click install eSIM profile and click continue

  5. Add a data plan

    Click add the data plan

  6. Rename the plan

    Name the plan Ubigi and click on “Done”, click continue

  7. Default line

     Select the default line as operator and then click continue.

  8. Mobile data

    Finally, select Ubigi to connect

  9. Turn off WIFI data

     In case you are connected to a WIFI network please turn it off.
     You can now purchase your first Ubigi eSIM data plan and set up your account if you wish.

  10. You are ready to purchase your first Ubigi eSIM data plan.

     You can now purchase your first Ubigi eSIM data plan and set up your account if you wish.

iPad

Instructions on how to install an Ubigi eSIM profile on Windows 10

Android

  1. In Settings, go to Network & Internet
  2. Select Mobile Network
  3. Click Add Carrier, you can now scan your QR Code
  4. When the device asks for your confirmation, click Start.
  5. The device will automatically install your Ubigi profile.
  6. Your profile is now installed.
  7. Click Done
  8. Now, make sure that mobile data and roaming are activated
  9. Finally, you need to configure the access point name (APN) for the service to work.
  10. Under Mobile Network, scroll to the bottom and select Access Point Names
  11. Click New APN
  12. In the APN field, simply type the 3 letters “mbb”, then save
  13. Now select the APN you just created
  14. Your eSIM profile will now be quickly attached to the local network. You will see the name of our local partner operator and Ubigi appear near the network bars.

Windows 10

Instructions on how to install an Ubigi eSIM profile on Windows 10

How to create an Ubigi eSIM account?

iPad

  1. Wait a few seconds while your new Ubigi eSIM is automatically installed on your iPad (must be connected via Wi-Fi)
  2. Now, turn off your Wi-Fi
  3. Once the Wi-Fi is off, wait until you are connected to your new Ubigi eSIM and then you will be automatically redirected to creating your account.
  4. You can now create your account and purchase your first data plan.
  5. Enjoy your new Ubigi connectivity

Android

In order to create your account, you need to be connected to your Ubigi SIM or eSIM.

  1. Make sure to turn off Wi-Fi and, for dual SIM device, check that you are using Ubigi for mobile data.
  2. To create your account, go to ubigi.me or download the Ubigi app.
  3. Complete the required fields and click “Create Account”.

Windows 10

  1. Click on the network icon in the bottom right corner of your screen to open the network tab.
  2. Disable Wi-Fi and Ethernet modes and stay in cellular mode only.
  3. Wait a couple of minutes for your PC to connect to the local cellular network, the Ubigi network will appear at the top of the pop-up window.
  4. Let Windows manage this connection.
  5. In the blue floating menu, click on “Connect to a data plan” (or “View my account”).
  6. Click on “Get Connectivity”.
  7. Now click on “Create an account”.
  8. Fill in the required fields and click “Create Account”.
  9. You will be able to check your balance at any time in the network bar. And access your Ubigi account to top up by clicking on “View my account”.

Ubigi Business 

ubigi bussiness services
Ubigi eSIM also works for the IoT

Ubigi for Business provides global cellular connectivity services for mobile fleet management. Using Ubigi’s eSIM technology it is possible to have internet connectivity from anywhere in the world at high speeds. Check if the devices you are going to use are eSIM compatible:

Ubigi eSIM compatible devices

IOS iPhone

  • iPhone 12 Pro Max
  • iPhone 12 Pro
  • iPhone 12 mini
  • iPhone 12
  • iPhone 11 Pro Max
  • iPhone 11 Pro
  • iPhone 11
  • iPhone XS
  • iPhone XS Max
  • iPhone XR
  • iPhone SE 2 (2020)
  • Recommended iOS version: iOS 13.3 or later

Note: iPhone and iPad models sold in China are not equipped with an eSIM and are therefore not compatible with Ubigi eSIM data plans. To see the full list go to the following link: www.apple.com/ipad/cellular/

iPad

List of iPad mobile (Wi-Fi + 4G) models equipped with an eSIM that support Ubigi eSIM data plans:

  • iPad Pro 11″ (1st and 2nd generation)
  • iPad Pro 12.9″ and iPad Air (3rd and 4th generation)
  • iPad (7th and 8th generation)
  • iPad mini (5th generation)

Note: iPhone and iPad models sold in China are not equipped with an eSIM and are therefore not compatible with Ubigi eSIM data plans.

Android

  • Google Pixel 5
  • Google Pixel 4
  • Google Pixel 4a
  • Google Pixel 4 XL
  • Google Pixel 3
  • Google Pixel 3 XL
  • Google Pixel 3a
  • Google Pixel 3a XL
  • Huawei P40
  • Huawei P40 Pro
  • Huawei Mate 40 Pro
  • Motorola Razr
  • Samsung Galaxy Fold
  • Samsung Galaxy Note 20
  • Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra
  • Samsung Galaxy S20
  • Samsung Galaxy S20+
  • Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra
  • Samsung Galaxy Z Flip
  • Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2

Android Tablets

  • Surface Duo
  • Gemini PDA

Learn about the Ubigi eSIM operational features.

Operational featureFAQAnswer
AccessibilityWhere and how can I buy it, is it expensive?Purchase from the official website and from the Ubigi mobile app, with a variety of plans available.
Top UpCan I top up my plan at my destination?Top up your credit from the Ubigi app, the place where you manage your eSIM plans.
Installation guideHow do I install it on my device?Directly from the Ubigi mobile app or by scanning the QR code sent to your email.
eSIM profilesCan I have multiple eSIM plans from one profile?Allows you to have several plans from one profile.
CompatibilityIs my mobile compatible, where can I find out if it is?You can see if your mobile or electronic device is compatible in this article.
Hots potWhat happens if I want to share my data to other devices?You can do it from your mobile, from your mobile settings.
Some of the functional features of Ubigi’s eSIM product

Ubigi in Car

Ubigi in Car connectivity offers a wide range of high-end cellular services to enable global and secure connectivity capabilities for some vehicle brands. The service operates on behalf of several manufacturers including Jaguar, Land Rover, Alfa Romeo, Fiat, Jeep and Maserati.

Through Ubigi SIM or eSIM provided in these vehicles you can get an immediate Internet connection to enable the navigation and connectivity functions of your car’s infotainment system, or simply create an in-vehicle WIFI hotspot to connect any of your passengers’ mobile devices.

What are the benefits of the Ubigi in Car?

You can do the following with Ubigi for cars.

  • Having an Internet connection in the car can enable other devices to connect.
  • Besides, online entertainment services, whether audio or video such as Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, Disney+, Netflix…, could be streamed to the in-car system.
  • If your car is equipped with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant voice control technology, Ubigi connectivity will allow you to control your vehicle remotely from the comfort of your home, just by asking.

Ubigi eSIM data plans by country and region

ubigi connectivity map
eSIM Ubigi is available for at least 170 countries around the world

Ubigi has eSIM data plan coverage in over 170 destinations worldwide. Every month the company is adding more countries if you want to consider it. Connect on 5 continents, you are always within reach of a plan that meets your needs as a traveller.

From the official website you can click on the country or region you wish to travel to, you will find the available rates in US dollars, and the most outstanding reviews from those who have already used eSIM.

Ubigi App – What is it?

Available on both IOS and Android operating systems from their respective shops ( App Store and Google Play store ); the ubigi App helps to manage users’ accounts.

From this app, you can

  • View your Ubigi account balance: your remaining data for example and the dates when your data plans expire.
  • Purchase new plans.
  • Make changes to your Ubigi account settings, change your password, username, language or contact you by email.
  • You can also manage your account from your browser, go to https://ubigi.me/#/login

Do you identify with Ubigi? 

Ubigi Values

Extended: Any time, any place.

Personal: friendly and helpful.

Reminiscent and lovable and full of energy.

“Ubigi is all about making its users happy because it overrides the stressful state of mind”.

The service offers “always connected” wireless capabilities to laptops, tablets and cars at near local rates in over 150 countries and destinations.

The Ubigi story allied to Transatel

Ubigi is Transatel’s new customer-facing brand for global cellular connectivity dedicated to the Internet of Things. YOU BEE GEE when you pronounce it, the brand that offers cellular connectivity services and services for the Internet of Things. Ubigi operates worldwide on a consistent and seamless basis. This is because Transatel has the privilege of an international mobile network code (MNC 901-37), backed by signed agreements with more than 170 mobile operators worldwide.

Founders of Ubigi

Bertrand Salomon ubigi
Bertrand Salomon
Jacques Bonifay ubigi
Jacques Bonifay

Jacques Bonifay: President of MVNO, an umbrella organisation for different mobile virtual network operators in Europe. He has worked at Alternative Télécom and Alcatel. He holds an MBA from INSEAD.

Bertrand Salomon: has worked in other telecommunications companies, such as Bouygues Telecom France, in product and management positions. He also worked in project and technical management at Sagem France. Like Jacques, he holds an MBA from INSEAD. 

FAQ – Ubigi eSIM Frequently Asked Questions

Is an eSIM secure?

Like physical SIM cards, eSIMs such as the Ubigi eSIM provide the most secure and private ways to connect to the Internet.
The security standards of cellular networks are much higher than those of the public Wi-Fi networks you might find in airports, hotels or coffee shops. 3G and 4G connectivity make data theft almost impossible thanks to:
– Private access
– Private network
– End-to-end control of your data
– Encryption
– Authentication

Is the eSIM better than the physical SIM card?

The eSIM is better than physical SIM cards for several reasons:
The eSIM cannot be physically damaged or lost: because it is embedded inside the devices.
eSIM is secure: it cannot be duplicated.
ESIM can store multiple mobile phone profiles.
eSIM is easy to locate: it is easier to find your phone in case of loss or theft, as network providers can remotely monitor the eSIM.

What are the main advantages of eSIM?

The eSIM eliminates the logistical hassle of getting a physical SIM card. You don’t have to find a shop or wait for the SIM to be sent to you in the post. 
The eSIM is also ideal if you are a frequent traveller as you can stay connected, anywhere, anytime, regardless of frequency or sudden change of location. eSIM makes travel easier, especially for those who regularly go back and forth from one country to another. 
Business travellers, or ex-pats who often visit their home country, for example, can maintain two lines and easily switch from their home operator to their eSIM operator like Ubigi. 

Ubigi social media

4.6/5 - (7 votes)

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