The way customers connect to mobile networks is evolving. With the launch of Rapid eSIM Connect, Telstra Wholesale offers a new level of onboarding and activation experience.

One of the challenges of QR code based eSIM activation has been that it sometimes requires two devices – one to present the QR and the other to scan it and download the eSIM.

Rapid eSIM Connect brings the eSIM activation experience into a single flow on a single device, enabling customers to activate a mobile service without an app simply by scanning a QR code and following the sign-up steps. It means customers can activate a service anytime, anywhere with a mobile or Wi-Fi connection, including within existing SIM purchase and activation processes.

A new era of convenience for MVNOs and end customers

For mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs), customer acquisition has traditionally been tied to physical SIM card distribution. It's an approach that involves logistics, inventory management, and significant costs. Rapid eSIM Connect removes these barriers, providing a fully digital, scalable, and eco-friendly alternative.

The process is simple for consumers to start.

• A customer decides on a plan offering, whether it’s a physical eSIM pack, a digital display at a live event, or a poster at an airport terminal, with the accompanying Rapid eSIM QR Code.
  
  
• They scan the code using their eSIM-compatible device.
  
  
• An eSIM is downloaded over an existing mobile network or Wi-Fi and a temporary service is activated, allowing the customer to access the network for the purpose of finishing the activation process.
  
  
• The customer validates their details, confirms the plan, and activates the service – all within minutes. (In most cases new services will be ready to use within a few minutes. In some cases, activation may take up to four hours.)
  
  
• If the customer is upgrading from an existing service, the process could be even more simple as they could login and directly confirm existing contact and payment details.

Whether upgrading, switching providers, or activating a new service, users experience a simpler, secure onboarding journey on a single device.

Empowering MVNOs with digital agility

The benefits of Rapid eSIM Connect go beyond customer convenience. For MVNOs, it represents a game-changing opportunity to expand market reach and streamline operations.

Rapid eSIM Connect offers:

• Rapid activation, anytime, anywhere. Your customers can start using your services faster as they no longer need to download an app or wait for one-time-use QR codes in order to activate a new service.
  
  
• Increased customer acquisition channels. QR codes can be offered in campaign frameworks such as live events, location-based offers or combined with promotional channels to capture customers in their moment of need.
  
  
• Lower operational costs. Eliminating physical SIM cards can reduce shipping, warehousing, and handling expenses.
  
  
• Sustainability gains. A digital-first approach means less plastic waste and reduced carbon footprint.

Security, flexibility, and customer experience

Rapid eSIM Connect offers MVNOs enormous flexibility when it comes to marketing services to take advantage of the customer’s ‘moment of need’. It enables MVNOs to create tailored plans, such as event-specific offers, and advertise them in the context of the event. For example, an MVNO promotion at a music festival could provide rapid connectivity to attendees who scan a QR code at the venue, creating a frictionless digital experience.

For those switching providers, the process includes seamless number portability.

We are also exploring additional security options, so that MVNOs can take up the option to provide streamlined identity verification to customers before activating their chosen plan to protect against fraud and unauthorised access.

Helping acquire new customers

Rapid eSIM Connect has already proved popular in our proof of concept (PoC) trial which received feedback that was overwhelmingly positive.

Widening the Point of Sale to any location where potential customers can read our campaign offers and then scan a QR code means customers can create special plans for specific events.

The trial also received a positive response from end customers who reinforced the simplicity of the sign-up process.

Shaping the future of mobile connectivity

As the demand for simpler activation experiences grows, Rapid eSIM Connect sets a new benchmark for mobile activation. By simplifying connectivity, reducing friction, and unlocking new acquisition channels, Telstra Wholesale is empowering MVNOs to thrive in an increasingly competitive market.

The future of mobile activation is here—and it’s faster, simpler, and more innovative than ever before.

For more information on Rapid eSIM Connect, visit Telstra Wholesale.