Motorola Integrates Travel eSIM into Its Phones
Motorola has teamed up with San Francisco-based startup Gigs to embed a native travel eSIM function directly into its smartphones, making it easier than ever for travelers to access mobile data abroad. The feature is initially available as a downloadable app called Global Connect from the Google Play Store, but Motorola plans to preinstall it on future devices. This works on any Motorola phone with eSIM capabilities, including budget models like the Moto G Play (2024).
How It Works and Where It’s Available
The Global Connect app allows users to instantly purchase and activate a data-only eSIM for their destination—even before boarding a flight. This eliminates the need to hunt for a physical SIM card at airport kiosks. Currently, the service is only available for use in five Latin American markets: Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Peru, and Chile. Motorola says support will expand to Germany, the UK, and other parts of Europe within the next few weeks, but has not announced any timeline for US availability.
Competitive Pricing and Global Coverage
Sudhir Chadaga, Motorola’s vice president for Partnerships, told WIRED that customers who install Global Connect and create a Gigs account will receive 1 GB of data free with their first travel eSIM (a limited-time offer). After that, they can top up as needed at rates starting at $3 for 1 GB valid for 30 days, up to $14 for 20 GB. The service works in more than 160 countries, and travelers can reuse the same eSIM for multiple trips. Chadaga emphasized that the goal is to eliminate the friction of getting a travel eSIM quickly before departure.
The Rise of Travel eSIMs and the Competitive Landscape
Travel eSIMs have surged in popularity due to their low cost and ease of setup compared to traditional international roaming. Siddhant Cally, a senior analyst at Counterpoint Research, notes that in some regions, legacy carriers charge double the price for half the data versus travel eSIM plans. The convenience—along with the ability to make WhatsApp, FaceTime, or other data-based calls—has made them a go-to for travelers. Major US carriers like T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T have even launched their own travel eSIM options for visitors entering the US during the 2026 FIFA World Cup to counter the threat from third-party apps.
Why the US Market Is Different
Cally believes Motorola’s decision to not launch in the US initially is due to the market being primarily postpaid, where consumers prefer using their primary carrier (e.g., T-Mobile, Verizon, AT&T) for roaming. In contrast, users in other countries are more willing to experiment with third-party travel eSIM options. The market is already crowded with providers like Airalo, Nomad, and Holafly, so Cally says the next battleground is becoming the first touchpoint in a traveler’s journey. A built-in stock app could be that touchpoint, though he cautions it doesn’t guarantee success.
What This Means for the Industry
While Motorola claims this is the first time a major smartphone maker has natively embedded a travel eSIM, Chinese manufacturer Xiaomi offered a similar virtual SIM feature back in 2015 (since discontinued). Cally calls Motorola’s partnership with Gigs “disruptive and novel,” but doubts it will be enough to convince people to switch to a Motorola device. Whether other phone manufacturers will follow remains unclear.