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How to get and activate an AT&T eSIM USA
Getting an AT&T eSIM USA has become simpler; learn about their pricing, services, activation, and some alternatives with this guide!
In 2024, over 100 million customers used AT&T’s mobile and broadband services, making it one of the US’ most reliable mobile network operators.
AT&T offers various prepaid and postpaid plans, benefits, and additional services that users can access using an eSIM.
Here, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about AT&T data plans pricing, compatible devices, and features – as well as how to get your eSIM today.
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Pricing and plans of AT&T eSIM USA
When using AT&T, you’ll get access to two different types of data plans:
- Prepaid plans: These plans are for users who don’t want a yearly contract, which makes it easier to cancel at any time while still including great perks such as unlimited data, calls, and text messages. But, these plans feature limited access to local 5G networks.
- Postpaid plans: These plans require buying a phone but are also more attractive due to their additional features, such as unique deals on phones and data plans, unlimited access to 5G networks, and many other add-ons from AT&T.
The good thing about these plans is that both allow you to get an eSIM for your phone.
Prepaid plans
AT&T has four different prepaid plan options. These plans start at $25 USD/month and include unlimited data for 12 months.
Specifically, the plans include:
- Score 5G: Get access to the 5G AT&T network with unlimited text and phone calls for $30 USD/month.
- AutoPay unlimited: With AutoPay, you can get unlimited data (30 GB at 3Mbps and unlimited at 1.5Mbps), phone calls, and text messages for $40/month.
- Unlimited MAX: Get unlimited data with a fair usage policy of 50 GB/month, including 25 GB of data sharing, 5G access, plus unlimited phone calls and text messages for $55/month.
Postpaid plans
Postpaid plans, known as “Wireless phone plans” on the website, include five different data plans.
There are three unlimited data plans, which are:
- AT&T Unlimited Starter: This is available for $35.99/month if you get 4 lines, and it includes unlimited data, text messages, phone calls, and 5 GB of data sharing.
- AT&T Unlimited Extra: This is available for $40.99/month if you get 4 lines, and it includes unlimited data, text messages, phone calls, 30 GB of data sharing, and 75 GB of high-speed data.
- AT&T Unlimited Premium: This is available for $50.99/month if you get 4 lines, and it includes unlimited high-speed data, text messages, phone calls, 60 GB of data sharing, and some additional add-ons.
The other two “Wireless plans” available are the following, which have less benefits:
- AT&T Value Plus: This is available for $30.99/month if you get 4 lines, including unlimited data, text messages, and phone calls with no data sharing available.
- AT&T 4GB: This is available for $40.00/month if you get 4 lines, including 4GB to use in Canada, Mexico, or Canada, plus unlimited calls and text messages.
Devices compatible with the AT&T eSIM USA
One thing to note about the AT&T eSIM is that it won’t work on all eSIM-compatible devices. You’ll need to check the list of AT&T eSIM-compatible devices and see if yours is on the list.
Common compatible devices include the iPhones 14 to 16, Samsung Galaxy S24 and Flip series, the latest Google Pixels, and some Motorola phones, such as the g stylus and Razr+ 2024.
On this list, you can also check their eSIM-compatible smartwatches, tablets, and laptops.
How to get an AT&T eSIM for the USA
Before getting an AT&T eSIM, you must pay for any available prepaid or postpaid plans. Remember that if you decide to buy a postpaid plan, you’ll need to purchase a phone.
Remember that these plans are focused on locals; as a tourist, the best option is to rely on a prepaid SIM card. So, let’s see what process you need to follow.
Requirements for buying an AT&T USA eSIM online
You have two options when purchasing a data plan or device to set up your eSIM: one as a new customer and one with an existing account.
These are the main requirements you’ll need to purchase any of the AT&T plans online:
- A local address, contact number, and personal information for the process
- The phone must be unlocked and needs its IMEI number to confirm compatibility with the network
- One of AT&T’s payment methods available
- A valid email address to receive the QR information
- An AT&T eSIM-compatible phone
How to get a data plan from the online AT&T store
To get a data plan, you’ll first need to choose any available plans to begin the process of using your cell phone in the USA with AT&T.
Once you have selected your data plan, you’ll be directed to the following step, which is to enter your primary address. In this case, we’ll focus on the prepaid AT&T plans
The purchase process has a little trick, so keep this in mind. Even if you choose a data plan before starting, you’ll need to choose that plan again to continue the process. You’ll see all the information regarding eSIM prices and additional fees here.
If you have an AT&T eSIM-compatible device, you can use it and purchase your line for $4.99 for any of the prepaid plans, and you won’t need to pay the $15 USD activation fee.
The next step is to verify your device, which requires entering the IMEI number in order to continue with the process.
Next, you have to choose whether to get a SIM card or an eSIM. Here, choose the “eSIM activation kit”, which you’ll receive in your email after the purchase.
Finally, review your order before completing the purchase, and complete the payment to receive the QR in your email.
Requirements to purchase an AT&T eSIM in a physical store
The main difference between purchasing your eSIM through the online store is that you won’t have to worry about completing the whole process alone.
If you are traveling, make sure to take your passport with you. However, remember that AT&T mostly targets locals since you have to sign a contract when getting a new phone.
Here are the main requirements you’ll have when visiting a physical store:
- An AT&T eSIM-compatible phone
- Follow the steps indicated by the customer support agent
Follow these steps to get it in a physical store
The process of getting an AT&T eSIM from a physical store is extremely simple as you won’t do much; you just pay for the plan, of course.
When arriving at the store, ask for the available plans and make your phone work with the AT&T eSIM network. If not, you can get one to access postpaid plans.
Either way, you’ll get help from a customer support agent, which makes the process easier for you.
How to install an eSIM on iPhone, Android, and smartwatches
If you plan to install the eSIM on your own, you have to follow some steps based on your device.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Installing an eSIM on iPhone: If your iPhone is among the AT&T eSIM-compatible devices, you won’t have many restrictions. The installation is automatic; you’ll only need an internet connection to accept the “AT&T cellular plan” notification.
- Alternatively, you can add the eSIM manually with the QR code AT&T sent.
- Installing an eSIM on Android: Whether you have an Oppo, Google, or Samsung device, go to “Settings”, look for “Connections”, select the option “Add eSIM” and follow the instructions on the screen to activate your AT&T plan.
- Installing an eSIM on smartwatches: If you own any of the AT&T eSIM-compatible smartwatches, you can add an eSIM using the Watch app on your phone. Then, you’ll need to use the “NumberSync” to pair both eSIMs, and you’ll be good to go!
>Looking at how to set up a Holafly eSIM on your iPhone? Check our activation guide!<
Other local companies offering eSIMs in the USA
Besides AT&T, there are other well-known companies that offer the eSIM services in the USA. Two options are Verizon and T-Mobile.
Let’s see what each one offers and how to buy one with their eSIMs for the USA.
Verizon eSIM card for the USA
Verizon is another important mobile carrier in the USA, and you can get an eSIM from them by accessing any of the available data plans.
While the Verizon eSIM is free, you’ll have to pay for a data plan, which starts at $45/month. There are two additional plans, which cost $60 and $70/month.
Postpaid plans start at $75 to $100/month, and they include add-ons to streaming services and exclusive offers at local stores.
T-Mobile eSIM for the USA
The last option is a T-Mobile eSIM. Similar to AT&T and Verizon, various data plans are available.
Currently, T-Mobile offers four different prepaid plans, ranging from $40 to $60/month with different amounts of data.
For postpaid plans, prices range from $50 to $100/month, including unlimited data with access to the T-Mobile 5G network. Some add-ons, such as streaming services and discounts, are exclusive to each plan.
An alternative from AT&T USA: Holafly eSIM for travelers!
For travelers visiting the USA on vacation, for work, or as a digital nomad, there are better alternatives to using your local phone service abroad.
With Holafly, you’ll get unlimited data starting from $5.90, and you can choose the number of days you plan to travel. You can also buy it using the Holafly app or website to get your USA eSIM.
Also, you’ll get access to 24/7 customer support in 19 languages, different payment methods, easy activation process, access to 1 GB of hotspot daily, and much more!
Frequently asked questions about AT&T’s eSIM for the USA
Yes, through My AT&T account, you can transfer your physical USA SIM card to an eSIM while keeping the plan you had active. The operator offers a quick step-by-step on its website.
Yes, some of the virtual SIM card data plans include coverage in Mexico and Canada, so you will be able to call, text, and use data abroad. There may be speed reductions depending on the area, and you should always confirm that your plan includes this feature in the digital SIM Canada.
Yes. If you use the “Bring your phone” option, you’ll have to pay $4.99 fee to get an eSIM.
Yes. AT&T has an international roaming daily pass that starts at $12 per day.
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Hi there! I'm Leoneska Ruiz, a 24-year-old content writer passionate about exploring the world. Over the past four years, I've dedicated myself to creating informative and engaging content for travelers. My goal is to help others get the most out of their travel experiences by sharing practical tips, recommendations, and guides on various destinations, along with essential advice on staying connected to the internet while traveling.
