As Turkmenportal previously reported, the national operator Altyn Asyr has introduced a virtual number service - eSIM. It allows you to activate your cellular data plan without having to use a physical SIM card.

To connect eSIM in Turkmenistan, you need:

• contact the TM CELL office with a passport and fill out an application for an eSIM;
• receive a QR code to connect eSIM;
• connect your phone to the Internet via Wi-Fi, or mobile Internet through a regular SIM card;
• scan the QR code using your phone camera, or a special application for scanning QR codes;
• install eSIM following the instructions on the device screen.

Important! Before purchasing an eSIM, make sure your mobile phone supports this feature. You can check this in the device settings or instructions from the manufacturer.

If desired, an existing phone number linked to a regular SIM card can be transferred to an eSIM.

How does eSIM work?

An eSIM is an electronic SIM card that is built directly into the motherboard of a smartphone. Unlike a regular SIM card, which is inserted into a special slot, an eSIM consists of software installed on a special chip that is permanently attached to the device.

Some smartphones allow you to have multiple eSIM profiles, which act as separate SIM cards. Each profile has its own phone number and data package.

Why do you need eSIM?

A virtual number is more reliable and secure since it cannot be lost or broken. It saves space in your smartphone and eliminates the need to physically rearrange SIM cards if you have several of them.