Understanding Sotel eSIM: What It Is and How It Works

For many people who travel or live between countries, staying connected remains more challenging than it should be. Roaming charges are unpredictable, local SIM cards are a hassle to buy and register, and Wi-Fi isn’t always available when you need it most.

That’s where a new kind of connectivity comes in, the eSIM. Short for “embedded SIM,” it’s a digital version of the physical SIM card that lets you activate data plans directly on your phone. No plastic cards. No store visits. Just tap, connect, and go.

Sotel builds on this technology to make international connectivity simpler, more affordable, and better suited for today’s global lifestyle. Sotel gives travellers, students, and professionals reliable mobile data access in over 180 destinations, all from one device.

This article explains what Sotel is, how it works, and why it’s different from traditional SIM cards or “virtual number” apps.

What is Sotel?
A global connectivity platform

Sotel is a mobile data platform built on eSIM technology. It allows users to purchase and activate mobile data plans directly through the Sotel app (available on iOS and Android).

Instead of buying local SIM cards or paying high roaming fees, travellers can choose a Sotel plan for their destination, install it digitally, and connect instantly upon arrival.

Not a virtual number provider

Sotel doesn’t issue new phone numbers. It focuses on data connectivity, powering internet access for browsing, navigation, video calls, and messaging apps like WhatsApp or Telegram.
Your existing SIM card (if you keep it active) can still handle your voice and SMS needs, while Sotel provides your international data connection.

Designed for travellers from everywhere, especially Africa

While Sotel serves users globally, it was created with African travellers and diaspora communities in mind. Many users from the continent face high roaming costs and limited access to local data options abroad. Sotel bridges that gap by offering:

• Payment in local currencies (including Naira),
• Plans built around regional routes (e.g., Africa ↔ Europe, Africa ↔ North America),
• And pricing transparency, no hidden fees or postpaid surprises.

Backed by trusted technology

Sotel is powered by Termii, a communications technology company with strong infrastructure and VAS licenses across Africa and global markets.
This means Sotel benefits from enterprise-grade reliability, with over 1 billion customer transactions already run through Termii systems, ensuring your connectivity is secure and stable.

How Sotel Works

Understanding how Sotel functions helps users get the most out of it. Here’s the step-by-step process.

Step 1: Download the app or visit the website

You can start with whichever channel is most convenient:

• On mobile: Download the Sotel app from the App Store or Google Play, then sign up using your email address. The app is your main control centre; you’ll use it to activate your eSIM, track data, and manage future plans.

• On desktop: Visit sotel.com to browse available plans, compare coverage and pricing across destinations, and complete your purchase online.

After you buy a plan on the website, you’ll still need to download the Sotel app to install your eSIM and manage your plan. Purchases made online sync automatically with your account once you sign in using the same email address.

Step 2: Choose your destination and plan

Within the app or on the website, you can explore Sotel’s coverage across more than 180 countries and regions.
Plans vary by data size and duration,  from short-term options for quick trips to larger bundles for extended travel.

Pricing starts from around US $2.50 for 1 GB, depending on region and data volume. Each plan is prepaid and transparent; what you see is exactly what you pay.

Step 3: Activate your eSIM

Once you’ve purchased a plan, you’ll activate it directly from the Sotel app. You can do this in two ways:

• QR code installation: Scan the QR code provided in your app or confirmation email.

• In-app installation: On supported devices, tap “Install eSIM” in the app and follow the prompts.

After installation, your phone connects automatically to Sotel’s partner network in your destination country.

Step 4: Manage and monitor

Once your eSIM is active, you can handle everything inside the Sotel app:

• Check your remaining data

• See plan validity and expiry

• Top up or buy additional plans

• Switch between regions when you travel

All activity, from activation to top-ups, happens in-app. The website is for browsing and purchasing only.

Everything about Sotel is digital, no physical SIM cards, no carrier visits, and no complex setup steps.

Why Travellers Choose Sotel eSIM

1. Instant, borderless connection
   Arrive in a new country and connect within seconds. You don’t have to queue for SIMs or rely on unstable airport Wi-Fi.
2. Global reach, local accessibility
   Sotel covers more than 180 countries, meaning your connection stays consistent whether you’re in Lagos, London, Nairobi, New York, or Dubai.
3. Transparent pricing and flexible plans
   Sotel’s prepaid model ensures you know exactly what you’re paying for. You can buy data in advance, top up when needed, and avoid the shock of unexpected roaming charges.
4. 24/7 customer support
   Travel often happens across time zones. Sotel’s support team is available 24 hours a day via live chat in the app. Help is always one tap away.
5. Seamless for dual-SIM users
   If your device supports dual SIM (physical + eSIM), you can keep your primary SIM active for calls or texts while using Sotel for data. It’s the simplest way to stay connected on both fronts.

Device compatibility

Check that your phone supports eSIM technology. Most modern iPhones, Samsung Galaxy, and Google Pixel models do. The Sotel app also includes a quick compatibility check.

Data-first service

Sotel provides data connectivity, not voice minutes or SMS. Use messaging or call apps over data (WhatsApp, Zoom, Signal) to stay connected with friends and family.

Coverage quality

While Sotel partners with tier-one networks worldwide, mobile coverage can still vary by location, especially in remote areas. Always activate before you travel to test your connection.

Getting Started

1. Download the Sotel app or visit sotel.com.
2. Create your account and confirm your device supports eSIM.
3. Choose your destination and preferred data plan.
4. Activate your eSIM via QR code or directly in-app.
5. Turn on mobile data, and you’re ready to go.
   
   

You’ll travel lighter, stay connected, and spend less time worrying about your next SIM swap