By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
Standard
Bank Connect has introduced eSIM as part of its continued expansion, enabling
customers to seamlessly manage multiple mobile plans on a single device without
a physical SIM card.
The Mobile
Virtual Network Operator (MVNO), owned by Africa’s largest bank by assets, has
been expanding its offering beyond traditional connectivity. In early 2025,
Standard Bank Connect relaunched device financing on flexible terms, driving
increased adoption of bundled mobile and digital services.
The eSIM
service is available on existing mobile plans, with prepaid eSIM options
expected to follow.
An eSIM is
a digital SIM embedded directly into compatible smartphones and devices. It
allows customers to activate mobile services digitally and store multiple
profiles on a single device, making it easier to switch between numbers or
plans.
More than just another product
“While eSIM
technology is not new, delivering it through a trusted banking platform unlocks
additional value for customers, from enhanced security and protection to
seamless integration with their financial and lifestyle needs,” said SB
Connect Executive Head, Kartik Mistry.
He
explained that by embedding connectivity into how customers bank, spend, and
travel, Standard Bank Connect will be able to deliver greater value and
engagement beyond traditional telecom services. The introduction of eSIM is
expected to accelerate this trend.
Why Now?
Standard
Bank Connect’s eSIM launch aligns with growing demand for flexible mobile
solutions. Many consumers now use multiple SIM cards to separate work and
personal usage, optimise data costs, or improve network coverage. Industry
estimates suggest that a large majority of mobile users in South Africa
actively use more than one SIM.
“The
continued shift toward multi-sim usage underpins our expansion into eSIM. Our
ambition is to see eSIM become a meaningful share of our customer base by the
end of 2026,” says Mistry.
This builds
on strong momentum since the business rebranded from Standard Bank Mobile in
June 2024. The MVNO now serves more than 350,000 subscribers and continues to
deliver solid year-on-year growth.
