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Introduction: The Connectivity Decision Every Japan Visitor Faces

I remember landing at Narita for the first time back in 2016, clutching a reservation confirmation for a pocket WiFi rental counter that I couldn’t even find. I wandered around the arrivals hall for 20 minutes, jet-lagged and phoneless, before finally locating the tiny booth wedged between a currency exchange and a vending machine. That little egg-shaped device became my lifeline for two weeks — until it died at 3 PM every single day because I forgot to charge it.

Fast forward to 2026, and the landscape has completely changed. eSIMs have gone from a niche tech curiosity to a mainstream travel essential, and pocket WiFi devices have gotten better too. But which one is actually right for your situation? That’s what we’re going to figure out together.

Whether you’re visiting Japan for a two-week vacation, arriving for a work assignment, or you’re in that weird in-between phase where you’ve just moved and don’t have a Japanese phone plan yet, this guide will break down everything you need to know. I’ve used both options extensively — sometimes simultaneously — across dozens of trips and my years living in Tokyo and Osaka. Let me save you the headaches I went through.

If you’re planning a bigger move, you might also want to check out our complete moving to Japan checklist to make sure connectivity is just one box you’re ticking off.

Quick Comparison: eSIM vs Pocket WiFi at a Glance

Feature	eSIM	Pocket WiFi
Setup	Instant (scan QR code)	Pick up at airport or delivered
Cost (2 weeks)	$15–$40	$50–$90
Devices Connected	1 (your phone)	5–10 simultaneously
Battery Concerns	None (uses your phone)	Separate device needs charging
Phone Number	Some plans include one	No
Speed	Excellent (4G/5G)	Good to excellent
Coverage	Excellent (major carriers)	Excellent
Convenience	Very high	Moderate
Phone Compatibility	Requires eSIM-capable phone	Works with any device
Best For	Solo travelers, expats	Families, groups, multiple devices

Airalo eSIM: The Best Overall eSIM for Japan

If I had to recommend one single eSIM provider for Japan in 2026, it’s Airalo. I’ve been using them since 2022, and they’ve only gotten better. Their Japan-specific plan (called “Moshi Moshi” — yes, really) runs on SoftBank and NTT Docomo networks, which means you’re getting coverage that blankets basically every corner of Japan, from downtown Shibuya to rural Hokkaido.

What You Get: Airalo offers data-only plans for Japan starting at 1GB for 7 days (around $4.50) up to 20GB for 30 days (around $26). For most visitors, the 5GB/30-day plan at about $16 is the sweet spot. If you’re a heavier user streaming maps, uploading photos, and video calling home, go for the 10GB or 20GB options.

Setup: You purchase the plan on Airalo’s app or website, receive a QR code, scan it with your phone, and you’re connected. I’ve literally done this while still on the plane before landing. By the time I walked through immigration, I had full 4G service.

Pros

• Incredibly affordable — often 50-70% cheaper than pocket WiFi
• No physical device to carry, charge, or return
• Instant activation, even before you arrive in Japan
• Excellent coverage on major Japanese networks
• Easy to top up if you run out of data
• 5G available on some plans in 2026

Cons

• Your phone must support eSIM (most phones from 2020 onward do)
• Data only — no Japanese phone number on basic plans
• Only connects one device (unless you use your phone as a hotspot)
• Hotspot use drains your phone battery faster

Ubigi eSIM: Best for Heavy Data Users

Ubigi is another solid eSIM provider that I’ve used on several Japan trips. What sets them apart is their generous data plans and reliable 5G connectivity in major Japanese cities. They partner with NTT Docomo, which arguably has the best rural coverage in Japan — important if you’re heading to places like Yakushima, the Noto Peninsula, or deep into the Japanese Alps.

Pricing: Their Japan plans range from 1GB/15 days (~$6) to 50GB/30 days (~$50). That 50GB plan is a lifesaver for digital nomads or anyone who needs to work remotely during their stay. I used it during a month in Fukuoka when my apartment WiFi was being set up, and it handled video calls and large file uploads without breaking a sweat.

Pros

• Excellent 5G coverage in Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and other major cities
• Large data plans available for heavy users
• Runs on NTT Docomo — best rural coverage
• Clean, easy-to-use app

Cons

• Slightly more expensive than Airalo for equivalent data amounts
• Customer support can be slow to respond
• No phone number included

Japan Wireless Pocket WiFi: Best Pocket WiFi for Groups and Families

Okay, so eSIMs aren’t for everyone. If you’re traveling with family, your phone doesn’t support eSIM, or you need to connect multiple devices like a laptop and tablet, pocket WiFi is still a great option. Japan Wireless has been in the game for years and remains one of the most reliable rental services.

How It Works: You reserve online before your trip, and the device is either waiting for you at an airport counter or delivered to your hotel or Airbnb. At the end of your trip, you drop it in a prepaid return envelope at any post office or mailbox. Simple.

Pricing: Plans start around ¥600-900/day (roughly $4-6 USD/day), with unlimited data being the standard. For a two-week trip, you’re looking at $60-$85 total. They often run discounts for longer rentals.

Pros

• Connects 5-10 devices simultaneously — perfect for families or groups
• Unlimited data on most plans
• Works with any WiFi-enabled device (no eSIM compatibility needed)
• Great for laptop users who need a reliable connection
• Multiple pickup and return options across Japan

Cons

• Must carry an extra device everywhere
• Battery lasts 8-12 hours (heavy use kills it faster)
• More expensive than eSIM for solo travelers
• Must be returned — late returns incur fees
• If you lose it, replacement fees can be steep ($100-$200+)

WiFi Rental Japan (Global WiFi): Best Airport Pickup Experience

Global WiFi, operating as WiFi Rental Japan, has the most extensive airport pickup network in the country. They have counters at Narita, Haneda, Kansai, Chitose (Sapporo), Fukuoka, and Naha. If you’re the type who wants to grab your device the moment you land without pre-delivery logistics, this is your best bet.

Pricing: Comparable to Japan Wireless at around ¥700-1,000/day. They offer both limited and unlimited plans, with 4G and 5G options. The 5G devices are newer, slightly bulkier, but noticeably faster in cities.

Pros

• Airport counters at all major Japanese airports
• 5G pocket WiFi devices available
• Insurance options for peace of mind
• Long-term rental discounts

Cons

• Airport counters can have long lines during peak season
• Premium pricing compared to eSIM options
• Same battery and carrying inconveniences as all pocket WiFi

What About a Physical SIM Card?

You might be wondering where physical SIM cards fit in all this. They’re still available — you can buy them at airports, electronics stores like Bic Camera and Yodobashi, or order them in advance from Amazon. However, in 2026, they’ve largely become the “third option” behind eSIMs and pocket WiFi. They’re fine in a pinch but offer no real advantage over eSIMs unless your phone truly doesn’t support eSIM technology.

If you’re staying longer-term and want a proper Japanese SIM with a phone number, check out our guide on the best SIM cards for Japan expats.

You can browse options for physical travel SIM cards on Amazon as well.

Buying Guide: How to Choose Between eSIM and Pocket WiFi

Here’s my real-world decision framework. I’ve recommended this to dozens of friends and coworkers heading to Japan, and it hasn’t failed yet.

Choose an eSIM If:

• You’re traveling solo or as a couple — One eSIM per person, or one person can hotspot to the other
• You want maximum convenience — Nothing to pick up, carry, charge, or return
• Budget matters — eSIMs are significantly cheaper for individual use
• Your phone supports eSIM — Check your phone settings: most iPhones from XS onward and most Android flagships from 2020+ support it
• You’re already in Japan — You can buy and activate an eSIM from anywhere with an internet connection

Choose Pocket WiFi If:

• You’re traveling as a family or group (3+ people) — More cost-effective to share one device
• You need to connect laptops and tablets regularly — While you can hotspot from eSIM, a dedicated device is more reliable for work
• Your phone doesn’t support eSIM — Older phones or certain budget models lack eSIM capability
• You need truly unlimited data — Most pocket WiFi plans are unlimited; eSIM plans have data caps
• You want a backup — Some people carry pocket WiFi as a secondary connection alongside their eSIM

Pro Tip for New Expats

If you’ve just moved to Japan and you’re waiting for your residence card, bank account, and all the paperwork needed to get a proper Japanese phone plan, grab an eSIM as your interim solution. A 30-day Airalo or Ubigi plan will keep you connected while you sort out the bureaucratic maze. You’ll also want a good VPN for Japan to access content from back home during this transition period.

How to Check if Your Phone Supports eSIM

1. iPhone: Go to Settings → General → About → look for “Available SIM” or “Digital SIM.” If you see an eSIM option, you’re good.
2. Android: Go to Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs → look for “Add eSIM” or similar. Alternatively, dial *#06# and if an EID number appears, your phone supports eSIM.
3. When in doubt: Google your exact phone model + “eSIM support.” It takes 30 seconds.

Recommended Accessories

Regardless of which option you choose, I strongly recommend carrying a portable power bank. If you’re using your phone as a hotspot with an eSIM, or if you’re relying on a pocket WiFi device, extra battery life is essential. Japan has long days of exploration, and you don’t want your connection dying when you’re trying to navigate the backstreets of Kyoto.

Browse portable power banks on Amazon — I’d recommend at least 10,000mAh capacity for a full day out.

Real-World Speed and Performance in Japan (2026)

Let me give you some actual numbers from my testing across Japan in recent months:

eSIM (Airalo on SoftBank, Tokyo): Average download speed of 45-80 Mbps on 4G, with 5G speeds hitting 150-300 Mbps in central areas like Shinjuku and Shibuya. More than enough for anything you’d do on a phone.

eSIM (Ubigi on Docomo, Rural Tohoku): Even in countryside areas, I was getting 15-30 Mbps, which is perfectly usable for maps, messaging, and social media. Docomo’s rural infrastructure is genuinely impressive.

Pocket WiFi (Japan Wireless, Osaka): Consistent 30-60 Mbps downloads with three devices connected. Performance dropped to about 15-20 Mbps with five devices streaming simultaneously, but that’s still very usable.

The bottom line? Both options perform extremely well in Japan. You’re not going to have a bad internet experience with either choice in urban areas. The differences only start to matter in very rural areas or when connecting many devices at once.

Cost Breakdown: A Realistic 14-Day Trip

Let’s compare actual costs for the most common scenario — a two-week trip to Japan:

Solo Traveler with eSIM (Airalo 10GB/30-day plan): ~$20. That’s it. Twenty dollars for two weeks of connectivity.

Solo Traveler with Pocket WiFi (Japan Wireless unlimited): ~$70-85, depending on the plan and any insurance you add.

Family of 4 with eSIMs (4× Airalo 5GB plans): ~$64 total. Cheaper, but each person manages their own connection.

Family of 4 with Pocket WiFi (1 device, unlimited): ~$70-85 total. One device, one bill, everyone shares.

For solo travelers and couples, the eSIM wins on cost every time. For families and larger groups, pocket WiFi becomes competitive and may actually be more practical.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an eSIM and my regular SIM card at the same time in Japan?

Yes! This is actually one of the best things about eSIM technology. Most modern phones support dual SIM — your physical SIM stays in its slot for receiving texts and calls from your home number, while the eSIM handles your Japan data connection. You can toggle between them easily. Just make sure to set your Japan eSIM as the primary data source to avoid roaming charges on your home SIM. I do this every time and it works perfectly.

Is Japan’s free public WiFi good enough to skip both options?

Absolutely not. I know this sounds harsh, but Japan’s free WiFi situation, while improved over the years, is still unreliable and limited. You’ll find it in some convenience stores, train stations, and Starbucks locations, but it’s often slow, requires registration, and disconnects frequently. Relying on free WiFi for navigation, translation apps, or staying in touch is a recipe for frustration. Always have your own connection — it’s one of those things that’s worth every penny.

What happens if I run out of data on my eSIM in Japan?

With providers like Airalo and Ubigi, you can purchase an additional data plan directly from their app and activate it within minutes. You don’t need WiFi to do this — you can use the remaining trickle of data or even a convenience store’s free WiFi to complete the purchase. I’ve topped up mid-trip several times without any issues. It’s much easier than trying to find a SIM card vending machine or rental counter.

Do I need a pocket WiFi if I’m working remotely from Japan?

It depends on your accommodation. If your hotel, Airbnb, or apartment has reliable WiFi (and most in Japan do), you only need mobile data for when you’re out and about — making an eSIM perfectly sufficient. However, if you’re planning to work from cafes, co-working spaces, or while traveling between cities on the Shinkansen, a

Affiliate Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products and services I’ve personally used or thoroughly researched. My opinions are my own.

Introduction: Why an eSIM Is the Smartest Move for Japan in 2026

Let me take you back to my first trip to Japan in 2014. I landed at Narita, bleary-eyed after a 13-hour flight, and spent 45 minutes standing in line at a counter trying to rent a pocket WiFi device. The guy behind the counter kept asking me questions I couldn’t understand, I couldn’t pull up my reservation because — surprise — I had no internet, and by the time I finally got connected, my airport limousine bus had left without me.

Fast forward to 2026, and honestly, that whole scenario feels like something from the Stone Age. eSIMs have completely changed the game for anyone coming to Japan, whether you’re visiting for two weeks or making the big move as an expat. You activate your data plan before you even board your flight, and the moment your plane touches down at Haneda or Narita or KIX, you’re online. No counters, no tiny physical SIM cards to fumble with, no pocket WiFi devices to lug around and remember to charge.

But here’s the thing — the eSIM market has exploded, and there are now dozens of providers all claiming to offer the “best” Japan coverage. Some are genuinely excellent. Others will leave you staring at a loading screen in the middle of Shibuya. I’ve tested a bunch of them over the past few years living here, and I’ve helped countless friends and readers pick the right one for their situation.

So let’s cut through the noise. Whether you’re a tourist planning a two-week cherry blossom trip, a digital nomad setting up in a Tokyo co-working space, or someone about to move to Japan permanently, here’s my honest breakdown of the best eSIMs for Japan in 2026.

Quick Comparison: Top eSIMs for Japan at a Glance

Provider	Best For	Network	Data Plans	Price (approx.)	Phone Number
Ubigi	Overall best pick	SoftBank / NTT Docomo	1GB–50GB	From $4.50	No
Airalo	Budget travelers	NTT Docomo / KDDI	1GB–20GB	From $4.50	No
Holafly	Unlimited data needs	SoftBank	Unlimited (daily plans)	From $6/day	No
Nomad eSIM	Flexible short trips	NTT Docomo	1GB–10GB	From $4.00	No
Mobal Japan eSIM	Expats & longer stays	NTT Docomo / SoftBank	Various monthly plans	From $16/month	Yes (some plans)
IIJmio eSIM	Long-term residents	NTT Docomo	2GB–20GB/month	From ¥440/month	Yes (voice plans)

Ubigi — Best Overall eSIM for Japan in 2026

Ubigi has been my go-to recommendation for the past couple of years, and in 2026, they’ve only gotten better. They use SoftBank and NTT Docomo networks in Japan, which means you’re getting coverage that’s essentially on par with what Japanese locals use. I’ve used Ubigi in central Tokyo, deep in the mountains of Nagano, on the Shinkansen between Osaka and Hiroshima, and even on some of the smaller islands in Okinawa. Connectivity has been rock solid.

What I particularly like about Ubigi is the flexibility. They offer everything from a tiny 1GB plan (great if you just need maps and translation apps for a weekend) to chunky 50GB plans that’ll last you a month of heavy use. The app is clean, easy to use, and you can top up on the fly without any drama.

Pros:

• Excellent coverage across Japan, including rural areas
• Wide range of data plans from 1GB to 50GB
• Easy setup and intuitive app
• Competitive pricing, especially for mid-range plans
• Works in 190+ countries if you’re traveling beyond Japan

Cons:

• No phone number included (data only)
• Customer support can be slow during peak periods
• Larger plans can be pricier than local Japanese MVNOs

Best for: Tourists and short-term visitors who want reliability without overthinking it.

Airalo — Best Budget eSIM for Japan

If you’ve done any research on eSIMs at all, you’ve probably come across Airalo. They’re basically the Amazon of the eSIM world — massive marketplace, tons of options, generally good prices. For Japan specifically, Airalo partners with providers that use NTT Docomo and KDDI networks, so coverage is solid.

Where Airalo really shines is on price. Their Japan-specific plans start around $4.50 for 1GB, and they frequently run promotions. I’ve seen friends snag 5GB plans for under $15, which is a steal when you consider what pocket WiFi rental used to cost per day.

The one caveat: because Airalo is a marketplace, the actual provider behind your eSIM can vary. I’ve had mostly positive experiences, but occasionally speeds drop during peak hours in crowded areas (think: Shibuya crossing at 6 PM on a Friday). That said, for the price, it’s hard to complain.

Pros:

• Very affordable entry-level plans
• Huge selection — Japan-specific and regional Asia plans
• Clean app with easy installation process
• Referral program gives you credit toward future purchases

Cons:

• Speed can be inconsistent depending on which underlying provider you get
• Data only — no calls or texts
• Some plans have shorter validity periods, so check the fine print

Best for: Budget-conscious travelers who want a no-frills data connection.

Holafly — Best Unlimited Data eSIM for Japan

Okay, this one is for the data-hungry among you. If you’re the type who’s going to be livestreaming from Fushimi Inari, video calling family back home every night, and downloading Netflix episodes for your Shinkansen rides — Holafly’s unlimited data plan is what you want.

Holafly uses SoftBank’s network in Japan, which gives you strong 4G/LTE coverage virtually everywhere. The “unlimited” claim is genuinely unlimited too — I’ve stress-tested it by tethering my laptop and working from cafés for full days, and while speeds occasionally throttle slightly after very heavy use (we’re talking 15-20GB in a single day), it never cut me off completely.

The pricing structure is daily-based, so you buy a plan for the number of days you’ll be in Japan. This makes it incredibly straightforward for trip planning.

Pros:

• Truly unlimited data — no hard caps
• Simple daily pricing structure
• Good SoftBank network coverage
• 24/7 customer support via chat

Cons:

• More expensive than limited-data competitors
• May experience soft throttling under extreme heavy use
• No phone number or voice capabilities
• Overkill if you’re a light data user

Best for: Heavy data users, content creators, remote workers, and anyone who doesn’t want to think about data limits.

Nomad eSIM — Best for Quick, Flexible Japan Trips

Nomad eSIM is a slightly under-the-radar option that I think deserves more attention. They offer straightforward Japan eSIM plans using NTT Docomo’s network (widely considered the best network in Japan for coverage), and the whole purchase-to-activation process takes maybe five minutes.

Their plans tend to be on the smaller side — 1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB — which makes them perfect for short trips. If you’re coming to Japan for a long weekend in Tokyo or a quick business trip, Nomad gives you exactly what you need without paying for data you’ll never use.

Pros:

• Rides on NTT Docomo — Japan’s most extensive network
• Very simple purchasing and activation
• Great for short trips with smaller data needs
• Transparent pricing with no hidden fees

Cons:

• Limited plan sizes — no option above 10GB for Japan
• Data only
• Not ideal for longer stays or heavy users

Best for: Weekend warriors and short-trip visitors who want reliable Docomo coverage.

Mobal Japan eSIM — Best for Expats and Longer Stays

Now we’re getting into territory that’s more relevant for those of you who are actually moving to Japan or staying for an extended period. Mobal has been serving the Japan expat community for years (they started with physical SIM cards), and their eSIM offerings in 2026 are solid.

The big differentiator with Mobal is that some of their plans include a Japanese phone number. If you’ve spent any time researching life in Japan, you know that a local phone number is practically essential — you need it for everything from setting up a bank account to registering for loyalty programs at your local supermarket. If you’re waiting to get a full Japanese phone contract (which requires a residence card), Mobal bridges that gap perfectly.

Their monthly plans are also more cost-effective for stays beyond a few weeks compared to the tourist-focused eSIMs listed above. If you’re looking at a month or more, do the math — Mobal almost always wins.

Pros:

• Japanese phone number available on select plans
• Monthly plans designed for longer stays
• No Japanese credit card or bank account required to sign up
• Excellent English-language customer support
• Can be activated before arriving in Japan

Cons:

• Pricier than tourist eSIMs for short trips
• Some plans lock you into minimum contract periods
• Data speeds on lower-tier plans can feel throttled

Best for: New expats, long-term visitors, working holiday visa holders, and anyone who needs a Japanese phone number quickly. If you’re in the early stages of settling in, pair this with a Wise account for handling money in Japan and you’ll be set.

IIJmio eSIM — Best for Long-Term Japan Residents

IIJmio (pronounced “eye-eye-jay-mio”) is a Japanese MVNO (mobile virtual network operator) that runs on NTT Docomo’s network. It’s not really aimed at tourists — you’ll need a Japanese address and potentially a residence card to sign up — but for established expats, it’s one of the cheapest and most reliable options available in 2026.

Their eSIM data plans start at an almost absurdly low ¥440/month (roughly $3) for 2GB, and even their 20GB plan is under ¥2,000/month. If you want voice calling too, their combined eSIM voice+data plans are still incredibly affordable compared to the big three carriers (Docomo, au, SoftBank).

The catch? The entire sign-up process and customer support is predominantly in Japanese. If you’re comfortable navigating that (or have a Japanese-speaking friend who can help), IIJmio is unbeatable value.

Pros:

• Extraordinarily cheap — hard to beat on value
• Runs on NTT Docomo’s excellent network
• Voice + data eSIM plans available with a Japanese number
• No long-term contracts on most plans

Cons:

• Sign-up and support mostly in Japanese
• Requires residence card and Japanese address
• Not suitable for short-term visitors
• Data speeds can slow during peak congestion periods (common MVNO issue)

Best for: Established expats with a residence card who want the cheapest reliable eSIM plan in Japan. Also check out our guide to the best SIM cards for Japan expats for more long-term options.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right eSIM for Japan

Step 1: Check Your Phone’s eSIM Compatibility

Before anything else, make sure your phone actually supports eSIM. In 2026, most modern smartphones do — iPhones from the XS onward, Samsung Galaxy S20 and later, Google Pixel 3a and newer, and many others. But don’t assume. Go to your phone’s settings, look for “Cellular” or “Mobile Data,” and check if there’s an option to add an eSIM or digital SIM. If you’re buying a new phone for your Japan trip, consider grabbing one that’s unlocked and eSIM-ready from Amazon’s selection of unlocked smartphones.

Step 2: Determine Your Data Needs

Be honest with yourself about how much data you actually use. Here’s a rough guide:

• Light use (1-3GB/week): Google Maps, messaging, occasional photos — Nomad or Airalo’s small plans
• Moderate use (5-10GB/week): Social media, video calls, some streaming — Ubigi or Airalo mid-tier plans
• Heavy use (15GB+/week): Remote work, streaming, tethering — Holafly unlimited or Ubigi’s large plans

Also worth noting: Japan has excellent free WiFi in 2026 compared to a few years ago. Most convenience stores, train stations, and cafés offer it. So if you’re strategic, you can get by with less mobile data than you might think.

Step 3: Consider Your Length of Stay

• 1-14 days: Tourist eSIMs (Airalo, Ubigi, Nomad, Holafly)
• 2 weeks to 3 months: Mobal monthly plans or larger tourist eSIM packages
• 3+ months: Japanese MVNO eSIMs (IIJmio) or transitioning to a full carrier contract

Step 4: Do You Need a Japanese Phone Number?

This is the question most people overlook. If you’re just visiting as a tourist, you don’t need one — data-only eSIMs are fine. But if you’re moving to Japan, starting a job, opening a bank account, or renting an apartment, a Japanese phone number becomes essential almost immediately. In that case, look at Mobal or IIJmio.

Step 5: Activate Before You Fly

This is the whole beauty of eSIMs. Buy and install your eSIM profile while you’re still at home, connected to your regular WiFi. That way, the moment your flight lands in Japan and you turn off airplane mode, you’re connected. Don’t wait until you’re at the airport trying to connect to spotty terminal WiFi to set things up.

One pro tip: download offline maps of Japan in Google Maps before you leave. Even with an eSIM, having offline maps as a backup is clutch, especially if you’re heading to rural areas where any network’s coverage might get patchy.

Bonus: Protect Your Privacy

While you’re setting up your digital life for Japan, don’t forget about a VPN. Public WiFi in Japan is convenient but not always secure, and some streaming services will geo-block your home content. Check out our guide to the best VPN for Japan to keep your connection private and your Netflix library intact.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an eSIM and a physical SIM at the same time in Japan?

Yes! Most modern phones support dual SIM — one physical nano-SIM and one eSIM (or even two eSIMs on newer iPhones). This is actually a fantastic setup for expats: keep your home country’s SIM for receiving occasional texts