Telstra now offers 4G eSIM plans for selected Windows laptops
By David Flynn, March 12 2019
WiFi dongles and portable hotspots, begone – at least, if you own the right Windows 10 notebook and sign up with Telstra.
The former includes 4G LTE models of recent-release 'Windows 10 Modern' machines such as Microsoft's Surface Pro, HP's Spectre Folio and Spectre x360, which come with eSIM technology baked in, plus a little-known Mobile Plans app.
The Mobile Plans app automatically detects a computer’s eSIM card and guides you through the signup and setup process. There's no need to fiddle with a tiny microSIM or nanoSIM wafer – just choose a mobile broadband plan and you're on the air.
Telstra is first cab of the Aussie eSIM rank, and it's a good starter: especially for business travellers who roam not only around the city but to regional centres, as Telstra's expansive 4G network typically has both the widest coverage and fastest speeds.
A Telstra-Microsoft partnership means you'll be funnelled straight through to Telstra portal detailing its special eSIM plans. These kick off with a tempting 30GB/30 day free trial, after which you can choose between pre-paid and monthly plans.
The pre-paid options are 5GB for $5, but only for a single 24-hour period – a welcome last resort when all other connectivity options fail; 30GB for $30 (covering three months); and 100GB for $100 for a year-long package.
Telstra's monthly eSIM plan serves up 10GB for $10, with the option to plonk down another $10/month to get unlimited data but at limited speeds – specifically, capped to 1.5Mbps – once you exceed that first 10GB.
Otherwise, be prepared to pony up an extra $10 per 1GB (applied automatically once you blast past that initial 10GB) until the end of your current month.
Note that while some bundling with current Telstra services is available, these aren't add-on 'companion' plans to your primary mobile phone package.
David Flynn is the Editor-in-Chief of Executive Traveller and a bit of a travel tragic with a weakness for good coffee, shopping and lychee martinis.
28 Aug 2018
Total posts 10
I wonder how long it will be before the iPad Pro and iPhone XS have similar treatment....
Qantas
22 Oct 2012
Total posts 319
Well, it's nice to see that Telstra has started to move with eSIMS, but an eSIM in a select range of laptops isn't going to be a big seller for them. The future potential market is phone users who can use the eSIM option as a 2nd line.
Qantas - Qantas Frequent Flyer
24 Jan 2019
Total posts 8
Tethering to a mobile phone is convenient and economical. Not sure why I would bother since I always have my phone on me.
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