Vodafone have launched a new digital travel platform centred around a travel eSIM, providing users of any network with affordable and reliable data connectivity while travelling.
The launch of the platform comes on the heels of the announcement confirming the completion of Vodafone and Three’s merger – the new company will be known as VodafoneThree.
Users of Vodafone’s travel eSIMs can add mobile data and keep their existing number when travelling – whatever network they are on – providing them with worry-free connectivity when using translation services, viewing online maps, and accessing email and messages. Before they travel, users simply download the app or visit the website, pick or build their own plan, and install the eSIM within minutes.
Vodafone aims to reach new customer segments globally with travel eSIM by merging its wide geographical reach with an enhanced digital experience and fast activation. This supports research commissioned by Vodafone which demonstrates that 84% of 2,000 people surveyed would consider such a service if it is cost-effective, convenient, and allows them to keep their number. Users can also avoid long queues for a local physical SIM or the inconvenient hunt for free WI-FI options upon arrival. Instead, they can quickly activate data connectivity with Travel eSIM in around 90 seconds.
This service enables customers to use their eSIM-capable smartphone or device widely at a single destination or in multiple countries. From the 5th June, Vodafone is extending the service to 206 destinations worldwide across 700 mobile networks, including 5G connectivity in 98 countries. This will give users one of the broadest high-speed data networks of any comparable service.
Enhanced customer support in various languages is also available with Vodafone’s GenAI virtual assistant, SuperTOBI, which can understand and respond to complex customer enquiries faster and better than traditional chatbots.
“With our new digital platform, we are offering users of all networks across the world a worry-free, easy-to-use travel experience in more than 200 countries. The Vodafone Travel eSIM service is set to be the ideal international data service for any mobile user,” said Margherita Della Valle, CEO of Vodafone.
The Vodafone Travel eSIM service supports data usage only, which includes and reflects the increasing use of email, video, and internet calling and access when abroad. A variety of data packages are available to choose from, including data top ups and build-your-own-bundle options, along with the ability to create mobile hotspots. Standard voice calls and text messages are not included, and customers can continue to use these services via their existing or roaming mobile price plans as normal.
Vodafone Travel eSIM offers a convenient travel connectivity choice at a time when spending on eSIM services is predicted to grow from €3.1 billion to nearly €7 billion by 2028, alongside a rise in traditional roaming services.
Research provided by Kaleido Intelligence into the travel eSIM market showed that there was a wide pool of ‘silent roamers’ – people who do not pay for connectivity abroad and instead connect to free Wi-Fi – who presented a significant opportunity for MNOs to tap into by making eSIMs seamless and easy to use.
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