Nigerian telecommunications company 9mobile has announced the launch of embedded subscriber identity module (eSIM) on its network.

In a statement released to the media, eSIM is described as a software-based digital chip that comes along with a device directly embedded by the manufacturer. eSIM replaces the traditional physical plastic SIM card for compatible devices and brings a whole new spectrum of benefits and possibilities.

9mobile’s Acting Director, Marketing, Layi Onafowokan, explained that eSIM enables multiple usage and adaptation of one subscriber profile across a broad range of mobile communication devices, Internet of Things (IOT) and artificial intelligence (AI) applications including smart commuting, metering, tracking, and surveillance, rather than the restricted single-device use of the conventional SIM card.

On how customers can acquire the eSIM, Onafowokan said, “Customers can walk into any of our select 9mobile Experience Centres to request an eSIM activation. A QR code will be provided to scan and download an eSIM profile and perform the usual SIM registration.”

Customers that activate 9mobile's eSIM service will enjoy up to 7GB data-free while those who want to change to an eSIM will only do a SIM swap at the select Experience Centre. Those who purchase a new phone and want to swap back to regular SIM have no problems as they will get a physical SIM card at the 9mobile Experience Centre.

The company adds that all compatible mobile devices including but not limited to iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max, iPhone XS, XS Max, iPhone XR; Samsung S20 Series, Google Pixel 3, 3XL, Pixel 4, 4XL, can immediately activate this exciting e-SIM on the 9mobile network.

New leadership

In early June 2020 9mobile announced the appointment of seasoned telecoms expert, Alan Sinfield as the substantive CEO of the company.

In a statement released to the media, 9mobile said Sinfield succeeds Stephane Beuvelet, who held the position in an acting capacity when the new board took over the company's management in November 2018.

“He brings a wealth of global operational expertise having held leadership roles at numerous mobile, fixed-line and broadband data operators as well as retail, media, and wholesale distribution businesses across emerging markets in Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Europe,” reads an excerpt from the statement.