A second line on an iPhone costs vary widely, from free (with potential in-app purchases) via apps like Google Voice or Burner to $10-$30+ per month for carrier plans or dedicated second-number apps like OpenPhone (around $15/mo) or Sideline (around $14.49/mo), depending on features and data usage, often using eSIMs or a physical SIM plus eSIM for Dual SIM capability on supported models.
To add a line, see Set up cellular service. Turn on two lines—tap a line, then tap Turn On this Line. You can also change settings such as Cellular Plan Label, Wi-Fi Calling (if available from your carrier), Calls on Other Devices, or SIM PIN. The label appears in Phone, Messages, and Contacts.
You can set up Dual SIM with the following: One physical SIM and one eSIM; supported on iPhone SE (2nd generation), iPhone XR, iPhone XS, iPhone 11, iPhone 12, iPhone 13, and iPhone 14, and later. Two eSIMs; supported on iPhone SE (3rd generation), iPhone 13, and later.
Set up Dual SIM
Disadvantages of Dual SIM
Getting the best network: Dual SIM phones are handy when coverage is spotty or when you move between regions with different providers. You can easily switch between carriers. Pick the SIM with the best network, data plan, or coverage wherever you are.
Yes, you can make phone calls with an eSIM; however, it will depend on the type of eSIM plan you purchased. eSIM plans with call and text services provide an international number that allows you to make phone calls and send text messages abroad.
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Free second phone number apps: You can use a free calling (or texting) app to get a second number. These virtual phone number apps don't require a SIM card or phone plan, because they use an internet connection for Voice over Internet (VoIP) calling, like TextNow or TextFree.
Higher Power Consumption for Dual Standby: While Dual SIM Dual Standby (DSDS) increases background activity, Dual SIM Dual Active (DSDA), which allows simultaneous use of both SIMs for calls and data, can lead to even faster battery depletion when both connections are actively engaged.
For iOS, use Apple's Safety Check: To check if your iPhone has been hacked, go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Safety Check. This tool helps you review and revoke the access you've granted to people, apps, and devices, which is a common way iPhones are compromised.
Disadvantages of eSIMs
A dual SIM allows most smartphones to use two SIM cards simultaneously, so you can have two numbers on the same device. Your dual SIM can either be physical or digital, depending on the phone. Some phones have two physical SIM card slots.
This uses Dual SIM Dual Standby (DSDS) technology, which means that both SIMs can make and receive calls.
With a Dual SIM device that's DSDS-capable, you can make and receive calls and messages from either phone number. Only 1 line at a time can be selected for data. Choose which number is your primary number. Your secondary number is still active for calls and text messages.
Dual SIM mobile phones show various signal bars most of the time, as both SIMs will connect to possibly different base stations. The antenna design in your mobile can favor one SIM slot over another, leading to varied performances.
Your WhatsApp account can only be verified with one registered phone number. It's not possible to add a second phone number to your account. If you have a dual SIM phone, you can have two different WhatsApp accounts on a single Android device. You still must choose one number to verify with WhatsApp.
Durability: eSIMs are less prone to physical damage or loss compared to traditional SIM cards, as they are built into the device's hardware. Limited Carrier Support: Not all carriers support eSIM technology, which may limit options for users in certain regions or with specific service providers.
You just go to your phone settings, select SIM management (or SIM settings) and then you can select which of the two SIM cards you want to turn off.
There's no single "best" eSIM provider for Australia, as it depends on your needs, but top contenders include Saily (all-around features, security), Airalo (affordable, variety), Nomad (user-friendly, affordable), and Jetpac (fast 5G), all offering data-only plans on major networks like Telstra or Optus for broad coverage, with providers like Holafly offering unlimited data options.
Generally, there is no direct cost associated with getting an eSIM. Think of it as a feature of your phone. However, when you activate a plan on an eSIM, you will, of course, pay for the cellular plan just like you would with a physical SIM.
Each Connect by T-Mobile plan includes a specific amount of high-speed data. The $15/month plan has 5GB, the $25/month plan has 8GB, and the $35/month plan has 12GB.