How to Make Calls and Send Texts Using a Data-Only eSIM

Luis Rafael
•
Dec 06, 2024

In today’s world, staying connected is important, and data-only eSIMs are changing the way we talk.

But how do you make calls and send texts with a data-only eSIM plan? If you’re interested, this guide will cover everything you need to know, including the best eSIM for calls and texts, along with their pros and cons.

What Is a Data-Only eSIM?

A data-only eSIM is a digital SIM card designed specifically for mobile data connectivity without needing a physical SIM card. Unlike traditional SIMs, they are built-in into the phone and ensure much greater freedom in use and convenience. This means that this tech will let users switch carriers and access local data worldwide. As a result, it will keep them online abroad without the trouble of inserting or replacing a SIM.

However, a data-only eSIM is for internet access, not for voice calls or SMS. Nevertheless, this gap can be solved with the right tools and apps to replicate the best eSIM for call and text features.

Can You Make Phone Calls with a Data-Only eSIM?

Yes, but there are limitations. Data-only eSIMs don’t support native voice or SMS. Instead, this technology aims to provide internet access. However, there are challenges and workarounds to consider for staying connected through calls and messages.

The Limitations of Data-Only eSIMs

First of all, there is no native voice calling or SMS feature. Data-only eSIMs do not support phone calls or SMS, which often annoys users who need those traditional forms of communication.

Furthermore, some services may not work perfectly, such as two-factor authentication that relies on SMS.

Moreover, support with some devices is limited. This means that not all older smartphones or some device models work well with eSIMs.

Here is a practical guide to help you find out if your device is compatible with this technology.

Another potential issue is the higher data costs. Depending on your provider, using the data for VoIP or any messaging apps can be more costly than regular voice/SMS plans.

In addition, during emergencies, traditional voice calls and SMS are less likely to fail compared to VoIP or app-based messaging.

There is also the complexity of dual SIM use setup. Any user sometimes finds it confusing to juggle one physical SIM and an eSIM.

Finally, roaming restrictions for some eSIM providers can be a problem. Some eSIMs have limits on international roaming, which means that their use is usually restricted to specific regions.

Lastly, there is no support for MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service). Apps handle photos and videos well, but unfortunately, you can’t send any multimedia file using regular messaging on a data-only eSIM.

How to Send Text Messages Using a Data-Only eSIM

With texting on a data-only eSIM, messaging occurs using an internet-based application. In fact, many apps for smartphones let you message any phone, local or international. To explain, this is how one may be able to do all these things on your data-only eSIM. Apps like WhatsApp, Skype, and Google Meet use your data connection for calls and messages. As a result, these applications bypass native voice/SMS services, making them both flexible and cost-effective.

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Popular Messaging Apps for Data-Only eSIM Users

WhatsApp: is a top internet-based messaging app. Not only does it offer end-to-end encryption, but it also works on almost all devices.
iMessage: Especially great for Apple users, iMessage sends messages over data to other iPhone or Mac users smoothly.
Facebook Messenger: This app, which is used by billions of people, easily integrates into your social life by supporting both text and voice communication.
Telegram: Known for its speed and security, Telegram is ideal for having group chats and even for sharing multimedia.
Google Messages: It combines traditional SMS with advanced RCS, which makes it an excellent bridge for data-only users.
Line: is popular in Asia, offering features such as free messaging, voice calls, and stickers to give that personal touch to your chats.

Tips for Ensuring SMS-Like Functionality

Select apps with a huge user base to ensure better compatibility.
Use apps like Google Messages that support SMS fallback for offline users.
Make sure the internet is strong and not disturbed to avoid a break in service.

Best Apps for Making Calls and Sending Texts Over Data

The right app choice will help you a lot. For this reason, here are the best apps for data-only eSIM users, each of which will keep you able to talk smoothly.

VoIP and Messaging Apps

WhatsApp: is the universal favorite. It’s ideal for calls and texts, including group video calls and voice notes.
Signal: Since it focuses on privacy, Signal is the go-to app for those who value secure communication.
Skype: Due to its many features, Skype is useful, from professional meetings down to casual chats.
Viber: Especially good for travelers, Viber offers free international calls. With such tools, you can turn your data-only plan into the best eSIM for call and text replacement.
Google Meet: is a video conferencing app. However, its features make it great for high-quality voice calls, too.

Key Features to Look For

Cross-Platform Support: Make sure the app works with iOS, Android, and desktop devices.
Encryption: Apps like Signal and WhatsApp offer end-to-end encryption.
Ease of Use: Simple interfaces make communication easy.
Affordable Plans: Many apps offer free calls within their network and low-cost rates for international calls.

Why Travelers Love eSIMs: A Game-Changer for Avoiding Roaming Fees

eSIMs make travel easier and cheaper. This is because they replace costly roaming with flexible, low-priced plans.

Saving Money on International Roaming Charges

Data-only eSIMs let tourists avoid roaming charges by buying local or global plans directly. For example, some operators, such as Airalo or Yoho Mobile, can offer you very cheap options for single or multi-country use—making sure that you pay only for what you need. These benefits often make them comparable to the best eSIM for call and text solutions for frequent travelers.

Staying Connected Across Multiple Countries with Ease

What makes eSIMs so easy is their perfect fit for multi-country trips, as well as the fact that switching plans is quick via device settings. Travelers enjoy reliable internet for navigation, communication, and work. Moreover, they don’t need to manage a physical card.

Top eSIM Providers for Travel Data and More

The choice of an eSIM provider greatly affects travel connectivity. This is because each option has unique benefits, addressing needs for coverage, cost, and user experience. Below are some of the most reliable options:

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Airalo: is one of the big eSIM providers, featuring different local, regional, and global plans. Since it covers more than 190 countries, Airalo is perfect for travelers who visit many places. Additionally, the app provides a smooth setup experience, letting users download the eSIM profile in a few minutes.
Holafly: offers unlimited plans, making it great for heavy internet users. Not only does it cover many countries, but it also has very good customer service. Furthermore, its unlimited data removes the need to track usage, which is a relief for heavy users who cannot live without connectivity.
Nomad: offers flexible, fairly priced plans that are especially great for travelers on a tight budget. Because it can be regional, staying in touch won’t cost much, yet at the same time, you don’t lose quality.
Ubigi: is geared towards European destinations, so its coverage is especially strong at low prices. The plans would be very good for business travelers or tourists going to many places in Europe.
AloSIM: is ideal for shorter trips or for times when data use is not high. Tourists can fully control their spending with flexible pay-as-you-go plans. This means they won’t need to sign up for large data packs.
Yesim: is very easy to use, serving a wide range of people from different parts of the world. Thanks to its smooth setup process and reliable coverage, Yesim is an excellent choice for all beginner’s lists for trying an eSIM.
GigSky: does well in offering wide international coverage. Moreover, it even provides detailed reports to help travelers track their data use. GigSky’s additional tracking tools make it a great option.
Keepgo: provides both eSIMs and physical SIMs for long-term travelers. Importantly, the company includes rollover data in its plans so that unused data does not go to waste.
Yoho Mobile:: Great for travel in over 200 countries, Yoho Mobile offers low-cost local and global plans. Easy to set up and budget-friendly, it works well for short trips and has strong support

How to Purchase and Activate Yoho Mobile Data-Only eSIM

The eSIM offered by Yoho Mobile is at the forefront among all providers offering this technology, which makes it perhaps the best eSIM for call and text, and activating it is very easy. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

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1. Go to the Yoho Mobile Store

Visit the Yoho Mobile store or the dedicated app. You can download the Yoho app directly from the top corner of the website or the App Store here.

2. Choose Your Destination

Select the country or countries you’re visiting. Pick as many as you need, focusing on those where you’ll require data. There’s no limit to how many you can choose.

3. Customize Your Plan

Choose the number of days that match the length of your trip and the data you think you’ll need. You could select an “Unlimited 5 Days” plan for one country. For short trips, we recommend smaller data packages (1-3GB), unless you’re a heavy data user. For longer stays or business trips, opt for larger plans (5-10GB or unlimited).

4. Buy Your Yoho Mobile eSIM

Complete the purchase within the website or through the app.

Provide a valid email address where you’ll receive the eSIM confirmation.
If you have a promo code, enter it here to apply for discounts.
Select your preferred payment method from options such as credit card, WeChat, Amazon Pay, Alipay, or Cash App Pay, and enter your payment details.

5. Activate Your Yoho Mobile eSIM

After you purchase, you’ll receive a QR code to activate your eSIM. You can either wait for the activation date to automatically enable the eSIM on your device or scan the QR code for immediate setup. Be sure to scan the QR code only after the activation time to avoid errors.