Rome Speed Test: FCO Airport, Centro Storico, Termini – Tourist Reality

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Rome Speed Test: FCO Airport, Centro S...

Rome Speed Test: FCO Airport, Centro Storico, Termini – Tourist Reality

30 Oct 2025

Speedtests
Rome Speed Test: FCO Airport, Centro Storico, Termini – Tourist Reality

Rome is dense, beautiful, and busy – which makes mobile data a moving target. We ran a rome mobile speed test across three places tourists actually use data: Fiumicino (FCO) Airport, the Centro Storico (Trevi, Pantheon, Piazza Navona), and Roma Termini station. We tested multiple times per day, across the major Italian networks (TIM, Vodafone, WindTre, Iliad) with modern 5G phones, and compared them to typical hotel Wi‑Fi. The short story: 5G beats most hotel Wi‑Fi, but crowds matter. Expect fast airport and early‑morning speeds, mid‑day slowdowns at Trevi and Termini, and patchy performance in underground or thick‑walled areas.

Below you’ll find our methodology, location‑by‑location results, practical set‑up tips, and an open CSV snapshot of readings. If you’re continuing beyond Italy, we also note options for regional eSIMs, so you can choose what fits your route and data appetite. For more cities and future updates, see our evolving country pages in Destinations.

Rome mobile speed test: how we measured

  • Test window: late September, weekday and weekend, off‑peak (early morning) and peak (mid‑day/early evening).
  • Devices: iPhone 15 and Pixel 8 Pro, 5G enabled, dual‑SIM capable.
  • Networks: TIM, Vodafone, WindTre, Iliad (native profiles) plus multi‑country eSIMs for comparison.
  • Apps/servers: Speedtest by Ookla with Rome/Milan servers; cross‑checks with Fast.com; 3 runs per spot per operator, median recorded.
  • Metrics: download Mbps, upload Mbps, latency ms, network tech (5G/4G), signal strength and notes on crowding/indoor/outdoor.
  • Locations:
  • FCO Terminal 3 Arrivals, SkyTrain platform, Leonardo Express platform
  • Centro Storico: Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Piazza Navona
  • Roma Termini: main concourse, platforms, metro hall, piazza outside

We kept phones in 5G Auto, disabled Low Data Mode, and ensured no background updates. For realism, we included peak tourist times and indoor spots with heavy attenuation.

Visitor quick takeaways

  • Airport wins: FCO 5G is generally strong; quick maps, rides, and check‑ins are painless.
  • Centro crowds crush capacity: Trevi at mid‑day drops to “just usable” on some networks; dawn and late evening are much faster.
  • Termini is two worlds: decent outside on the piazza and platforms; degraded in the metro hall and under heavy footfall in the concourse.
  • 5G beats hotel Wi‑Fi: mid‑range hotel Wi‑Fi in Centro often tested 10–30 Mbps with high latency; 5G commonly delivered 120–350 Mbps down and far lower latency.
  • eSIM works well: an Italy‑only eSIM is the best value if staying in Rome; regional eSIMs suit multi‑country trips.

For an Italy‑focused plan, start with Esim Italy. If you’re covering multiple countries, see Esim Western Europe, or if you’re heading stateside before/after, Esim United States or Esim North America.

Results by location

FCO Airport (Fiumicino) – Terminal 3 and trains

  • Morning arrivals (08:00–10:00):
  • Vodafone 5G: 280–420 Mbps down, 35–60 up, 18–25 ms
  • TIM 5G: 220–360 down, 30–50 up, 19–27 ms
  • WindTre 5G: 120–220 down, 15–30 up, 25–35 ms
  • Iliad 4G/5G NSA mix: 70–140 down, 8–20 up, 30–45 ms
  • Mid‑day (12:00–14:00) arrivals hall congestion:
  • The above figures typically halved; we saw lows of 40–80 Mbps on WindTre and Iliad. Still fine for maps and ride‑hailing, but large downloads slowed.
  • Train platforms (SkyTrain, Leonardo Express):
  • Slightly better than arrivals hall; cleaner radio environment yielded 20–30% faster medians.

Bottom line: great for first‑hour needs. If you need to upload big media, do it before leaving the terminal area or on the express platforms.

Centro Storico – Trevi, Pantheon, Piazza Navona

  • Trevi Fountain (mid‑day peak):
  • TIM/Vodafone 5G often dropped to 40–120 Mbps down, 10–30 up, latency 25–45 ms.
  • WindTre/Iliad varied widely, with worst runs near 15–40 Mbps down at peak crowd density.
  • Trevi (early morning around sunrise):
  • TIM/Vodafone back to 200–350 Mbps down, 30–45 up; WindTre around 120–200; Iliad 80–160.
  • Pantheon area:
  • Walled streets and stone facades attenuate signal. Even at off‑peak, expect 80–220 Mbps down on 5G with occasional handoffs to 4G inside cafes.
  • Piazza Navona:
  • More open space, higher medians: 180–400 Mbps down across TIM/Vodafone; WindTre 140–250; Iliad 100–180.

Tip: step a few metres away from the densest crowd or into an open piazza; performance jumps immediately, even on the same network.

Roma Termini – concourse, platforms, metro

  • Main concourse (17:00–19:00 rush):
  • Capacity strain evident. TIM/Vodafone 5G: 60–180 Mbps down, 10–25 up. WindTre/Iliad: 20–90 down, 5–15 up.
  • Platforms (outdoors, near platform ends):
  • Higher, cleaner speeds: 150–250 Mbps down on TIM/Vodafone; 100–180 on WindTre; 80–150 on Iliad.
  • Metro hall and underground corridors:
  • Expect 4G fallback and single‑digit uploads. We saw 5–25 Mbps down, 2–8 up, with jitter. Fine for messaging; video calls stutter.

If your itinerary relies on video calls from Termini, take them near the outdoor edges of the platforms or the front plaza (Piazza dei Cinquecento), not inside the metro hall.

Hotel Wi‑Fi vs 5G in Rome

We ran side‑by‑side tests in two mid‑range hotels near Trevi and the Pantheon:

  • Typical hotel Wi‑Fi (2.4 GHz, shared backhaul):
  • 10–30 Mbps down, 5–15 up, 60–120 ms latency. Evening slowdowns were dramatic when tours returned.
  • 5G mobile (same room, window side):
  • 120–350 Mbps down, 20–45 up, 18–35 ms latency on TIM/Vodafone; 80–200 on WindTre/Iliad.

Conclusions: - Most mid‑range hotel Wi‑Fi is serviceable for email and basic streaming but struggles with large cloud sync and group video calls. - 5G is the safer default for uploads, HD calls and tethering a laptop. Keep Wi‑Fi as a backup.

If you’re staying Italy‑only, choose a local plan via Esim Italy. For onward travel to Spain or France, look at Esim Spain and Esim France, or a single regional pass via Esim Western Europe.

How to get reliable data in Rome

Quick setup checklist

  • Before you fly
  • Buy an eSIM and install it while you have stable Wi‑Fi. For Italy‑only, use Esim Italy. Multi‑country? Use Esim Western Europe.
  • Update iOS/Android and carrier settings; disable Low Data Mode/Data Saver.
  • Set 5G to Auto (iOS) or Preferred (Android).
  • On arrival at FCO
  • Toggle Airplane Mode off/on once. Ensure Data Roaming is ON for your travel eSIM.
  • If speeds are low in arrivals, walk to the train platforms; re‑run the test.
  • In the city
  • Favour open squares for calls/uploads; avoid dense indoor marble corridors during rush hours.
  • For video calls at Termini, move outside or towards platform ends.
  • Don’t rely solely on hotel Wi‑Fi for critical work.

Pro tips

  • Keep two lines active if possible: a local eSIM for data and your home SIM on voice/SMS only.
  • Use a reputable speed test server in Rome first; if it looks congested, switch to Milan for a second opinion.
  • Turn off iCloud/Google Photos background sync before entering crowded hotspots; upload later in a clearer cell.
  • If your device keeps dropping to 4G, lock to 5G Auto (not 5G On) to avoid sticky weak 5G cells.

Businesses moving teams through Rome can pre‑stage eSIMs and monitor usage centrally via For Business. Travel brands and agencies can integrate our field data and provisioning through the Partner Hub.

The dataset (open CSV snapshot)

We publish an open snapshot for reproducibility. You’ll find the CSV linked from the Italy section of Destinations. Columns:

  • timestamp (local ISO)
  • location (name)
  • lat,lng (approx.)
  • environment (indoor/outdoor)
  • operator
  • tech (5G/4G)
  • download_mbps
  • upload_mbps
  • latency_ms
  • notes

Sample rows (comma‑separated):

2025-09-24T08:42, FCO T3 Arrivals, 41.799,-12.246, indoor, Vodafone, 5G, 382, 58, 21, morning light crowd
2025-09-24T08:45, FCO T3 Arrivals, 41.799,-12.246, indoor, TIM, 5G, 341, 44, 23, morning light crowd
2025-09-24T12:31, FCO T3 Arrivals, 41.799,-12.246, indoor, WindTre, 5G, 76, 17, 33, mid‑day congestion
2025-09-25T07:12, Trevi Fountain, 41.901,-12.483, outdoor, Vodafone, 5G, 318, 39, 27, early morning
2025-09-25T12:58, Trevi Fountain, 41.901,-12.483, outdoor, TIM, 5G, 92, 18, 35, peak crowd
2025-09-25T13:06, Pantheon, 41.899,-12.476, indoor, Iliad, 4G, 64, 10, 42, thick walls
2025-09-26T18:14, Piazza Navona, 41.899,-12.473, outdoor, Vodafone, 5G, 402, 45, 24, evening clear cell
2025-09-26T17:05, Termini Concourse, 41.902,-12.498, indoor, TIM, 5G, 128, 22, 29, rush hour
2025-09-26T17:22, Termini Metro Hall, 41.902,-12.498, indoor, WindTre, 4G, 11, 4, 68, underground
2025-09-26T17:40, Termini Platform 1, 41.902,-12.498, outdoor, Iliad, 5G, 146, 21, 31, platform edge

Use these as medians; we also record raw runs per point and can share on request.

Run your own rome mobile speed test (5‑minute method)

  1. Stand in an open area, away from dense crowds or thick walls.
  2. Toggle Airplane Mode on/off once.
  3. Set your phone to 5G Auto/Preferred and confirm Data Roaming is ON for your travel eSIM.
  4. Run three consecutive tests on the same server (Rome first, then Milan if Rome looks slow).
  5. Take the median; note the time and environment (indoor/outdoor).
  6. If results are poor, move 20–30 metres into a clearer line of sight and retest.

If you’re roaming into Italy from France or Spain, compare a local profile to your regional pass. Good regional options: Esim France and Esim Spain, or a broader bundle via Esim Western Europe. Coming from or heading to the US? Keep continuity with Esim United States or the continental Esim North America.

FAQ

  • What’s the fastest network in Rome right now?
    Results vary by street and time. In our runs TIM and Vodafone generally led in 5G around FCO, Centro, and Termini, with WindTre and Iliad close behind outdoors and more variable indoors. Always test where you actually stand.
  • Is 5G available everywhere in Rome?
    No. 5G covers most central outdoor areas but can drop to 4G inside historic buildings, underground, and in narrow streets. 5G Auto usually gives the best balance.
  • Should I rely on hotel Wi‑Fi?
    Use it as a backup. Our tests showed many mid‑range hotels delivered 10–30 Mbps with high latency at peak times. Mobile 5G was usually faster and more stable for calls and uploads.
  • Which eSIM should I buy for a Rome city break?
    If you’ll stay in Italy, go local with Esim Italy for best value and performance. If you’re crossing borders, pick a regional pass via Esim Western Europe.
  • Will my EU plan roam fine in Italy?
    Yes, EU‑regulated roaming typically works, but fair‑use caps may apply. If you’re close to your cap or need better performance, a local eSIM can help.
  • I need guaranteed performance for a team event at Termini. Any advice?
    Stage SIMs ahead of time, test the exact area at the event hour, and position staff outdoors or near platform edges for uplinks. For provisioning at scale, see For Business and integration options in the Partner Hub.

Next step

Planning Rome or a wider Italy itinerary? Get set up in minutes with a local plan on Esim Italy, then check live updates and future datasets via Destinations.

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Andes Highlights (3 Weeks): Peru–Bolivia–Chile–Argentina Connectivity

Andes Highlights (3 Weeks): Peru–Bolivia–Chile–Argentina Connectivity

Planning a south america itinerary 3 weeks through the high Andes? This route stitches together Peru’s Sacred Valley, Bolivia’s La Paz and Salar de Uyuni, Chile’s Atacama Desert, and northern Argentina’s quebradas or Mendoza wine country—often by long-distance bus and a couple of short flights. Connectivity is different at altitude: coverage is strong in cities but drops in high passes and salt flats; bus Wi‑Fi is patchy; border towns can be blackspots. The smart move is an eSIM with multi‑country coverage, backed by offline maps, offline translations, and a simple routine for crossing borders by bus without losing service. Below you’ll find a practical, connectivity-first itinerary; checklists to prep your phone, apps and documents; and on-the-ground tips for staying online where it matters: booking transport, hailing taxis, backing up photos, and navigating when the signal disappears.If you’re transiting via Europe or North America, you can also add a layover eSIM to stay connected door-to-door. Start with our country list on Destinations, then follow the steps, and you won’t waste time chasing SIM shops at 3,500 metres.The 3‑week Andes route at a glanceWeek 1: Peru (Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu) - Fly into Cusco (or Lima then connect). - Base in Cusco; day trips to Pisac/Chinchero/Maras–Moray. - Train to Aguas Calientes; Machu Picchu visit; return to Cusco or continue to Puno/Lake Titicaca.Week 2: Bolivia and Chile (La Paz, Uyuni, San Pedro de Atacama) - Bus/collectivo via Copacabana to La Paz. - Fly or overnight bus to Uyuni. - 3‑day Uyuni–altiplano tour ending in San Pedro de Atacama (Chile).Week 3: Chile and Argentina (Atacama to Salta or Mendoza/Buenos Aires) - Choose: - North: San Pedro to Salta/Jujuy by bus; fly to Buenos Aires. - Or South: San Pedro–Calama flight to Santiago; bus or flight to Mendoza; onward to Buenos Aires.Connectivity notes (quick): - Cities: generally strong 4G/4G+; 5G in major hubs (Santiago, Buenos Aires). - Altitude/rural: expect long no‑signal stretches (Uyuni, altiplano passes, Paso Jama). - Bus Wi‑Fi: often advertised, rarely reliable. Plan to be offline onboard. - Border regions: networks switch; a multi‑country eSIM avoids sudden loss.eSIM vs local SIMs for a 4‑country tripFor a route with multiple borders and remote legs, eSIM wins on time and reliability.What a multi‑country eSIM gets you: - One plan across Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina (check coverage per country on Destinations). - No passport/SIM registration queues at kiosks. - Keep your home number active on the physical SIM for calls/SMS codes. - Instant top‑ups if you burn data on photos or navigation.When a local SIM still helps: - Long stay in one country with heavy data use (e.g., a month in Buenos Aires). - Dead zones where a different local network performs better (rarely worth the hassle on a 3‑week pace).Practical approach: - Use an eSIM as your primary data line across all four countries. - If you find a specific local network far better in one region, add a cheap local SIM and keep the eSIM as backup.Device readiness checklist (before you fly)1) Check eSIM compatibility and SIM‑lock status on your phone.2) Buy and install your eSIM while on home Wi‑Fi. Keep a PDF/printed copy of the QR code.3) Label lines clearly (e.g., “eSIM Andes Data”, “Home SIM”).4) Turn on data roaming for the eSIM; leave roaming off for your home SIM to avoid charges.5) Set up dual‑SIM rules: data on eSIM; calls/SMS default to home SIM if needed.6) Download offline: Google Maps/Organic Maps for all target regions; language packs (Spanish at minimum); bus/air tickets; hotel confirmations.7) Cloud backups: set to upload on Wi‑Fi only; pre‑create shared albums for travel companions.8) Test tethering/hotspot with your laptop/tablet.If you’re transiting popular hubs, consider a short layover eSIM: - USA connections: add an Esim United States or a broader Esim North America.- Europe connections: Madrid/Barcelona? Use an Esim Spain. Paris or Rome? See Esim France and Esim Italy. Multi‑country layovers? Try Esim Western Europe.City‑by‑city connectivity notesCusco & the Sacred Valley (Peru)Coverage: Good in Cusco city; variable in high villages (Maras/Moray) and along Inca Trail approaches.Tips: Download Sacred Valley maps offline; pin viewpoints and ruins. most taxis use WhatsApp—save your accommodation’s number.Machu Picchu/Aguas Calientes: Patchy to none at the citadel. Upload your photos later; don’t rely on live ticket retrieval.Lake Titicaca: Puno and CopacabanaPuno: Reasonable 4G; bus terminals crowded—screenshot QR tickets.Crossing to Copacabana: Expect a signal drop around the border; have directions saved offline.La Paz (Bolivia)Good urban 4G; the cable car network has decent signal but tunnels do not.Yungas/“Death Road” tours: Mountain valleys cause dead zones—share your emergency contacts with the operator, carry a charged power bank, and don’t plan remote calls.Uyuni and the Altiplano (Bolivia to Chile)Uyuni town: OK 4G; ATMs finicky—use Wi‑Fi for banking apps.Salt flats/lagunas: Assume offline for most of the 3‑day tour. Guides often carry satellite phones; agree a pickup time/place in San Pedro and preload your map route.San Pedro de Atacama (Chile)Town: Solid 4G; accommodations often have Wi‑Fi but speeds vary.Geysers, Valle de la Luna: Offline navigation essential; sunrise trips start before mobile networks wake up in some areas.Salta/Jujuy or Mendoza/Buenos Aires (Argentina)Salta/Jujuy: Good city coverage; quebradas have long no‑signal sections.Mendoza: City 4G/5G; vineyards outside town can be patchy.Buenos Aires: Strong 4G/5G; ideal for cloud backups and large downloads before you fly home.Border crossings by bus: step‑by‑stepThe big ones on this route: Peru–Bolivia (Puno/Copacabana), Bolivia–Chile (Uyuni–San Pedro via Hito Cajón), Chile–Argentina (Paso Jama to Salta or Los Libertadores to Mendoza).How to keep service and sanity:1) The day before:- Top up your eSIM data.- Confirm your plan includes both countries you’re entering/leaving.- Download offline maps for both sides of the border and your town of arrival.- Save bus company WhatsApp and terminal address offline.2) On departure morning:- Keep a paper copy or offline PDF of tickets, insurance, and accommodation proof.- Charge phone and power bank; pack a short cable in your daypack.3) On the bus:- Don’t count on bus Wi‑Fi. Keep your eSIM as primary, but expect drops near mountain passes.- If your phone supports it, enable “Wi‑Fi calling” for later when you reach accommodation Wi‑Fi.4) At the border posts:- Data may be unavailable. Keep QR codes and booking numbers offline.- After exiting one country and entering the next, toggle Airplane Mode off/on to re‑register on the new network.- If the eSIM doesn’t attach, manually select a network in Mobile Settings.5) Arrival:- Send your accommodation a quick WhatsApp when you’re back online.- Recheck your eSIM’s data roaming is on; confirm you’re on an in‑country network, not a weak roaming partner.Pro tips: - Dual profiles: If your eSIM allows, keep a secondary profile for a different network in the same country—helpful in border towns.- Cash buffer: Some border terminals don’t accept cards; download a currency converter for offline use.Offline survival kit (5‑minute setup)Maps: Download regions for Cusco, Sacred Valley, Puno, La Paz, Uyuni, San Pedro, Salta/Jujuy or Mendoza, and Buenos Aires.Translations: Download Spanish for offline use; add phrasebook favourites (bus tickets, directions, dietary needs).Documents: Save PDFs of passports, tickets, hotel addresses; star them for quick access.Rides: Screenshots of pickup points; pin bus terminals and hotel doors.Entertainment: Podcasts and playlists for long bus legs, set to download on Wi‑Fi only.Altitude and your tech: what changesCoverage gaps lengthen: Fewer towers at high altitude; valleys can block signal. Assume offline on remote excursions.Batteries drain faster in cold: Keep your phone warm and carry a power bank (10,000–20,000 mAh).Hotel Wi‑Fi may be congested: Schedule big uploads (photo backups, app updates) for big-city stays like Santiago or Buenos Aires.GPS still works offline: Your blue dot shows on offline maps without data—preload everything.Data budgeting for 3 weeksTypical traveller usage across this route: - Messaging/Maps/Bookings: 0.2–0.5 GB/day- Social and photo sharing: 0.3–0.7 GB/day- Occasional video calls/streaming: 0.5–1.0 GB/dayFor a mixed-use trip, plan 15–25 GB for 3 weeks. Heavy creators should double it and upload over hotel Wi‑Fi when possible. If you work remotely, consider a higher‑capacity plan and a backup eSIM; see our guidance on For Business.Practical route with transport and connectivity cuesDays 1–4 Cusco base: Strong city signal; day trips may be spotty—go offline-ready.Days 5–6 Machu Picchu: Expect no service at the ruins; sync tickets ahead.Days 7–8 Puno to La Paz via Copacabana: Border signal drop; re‑register networks after crossing.Days 9–11 Uyuni tour to San Pedro: Treat as offline; charge nightly; carry spare cables.Days 12–14 San Pedro: Stable in town; tours offline; top up data before Paso Jama.Days 15–17 Salta/Jujuy or Mendoza: Good urban 4G; rural patches are offline.Days 18–21 Buenos Aires: Strongest connectivity of the trip; clear your uploads and map downloads for the flight home.Partnering and stopover extrasHospitality and tour operators in the Andes: help your guests stay connected—explore co‑branded solutions via our Partner Hub.Transatlantic flyers: test your eSIM setup on a layover with an Esim United States or Esim Western Europe before hitting high-altitude blackspots.FAQs1) Do I need a local SIM in each country?No. A multi‑country eSIM covering Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Argentina is simpler and works well for a 3‑week pace. Consider a local SIM only if you’ll spend longer in one country and want the absolute best regional coverage.2) Will my WhatsApp number change with an eSIM?No. WhatsApp is tied to your registered number, not your data line. Keep your home SIM active for voice/SMS (roaming off if you wish), and use the eSIM for data—WhatsApp continues as normal.3) Can I hotspot to my laptop or camera?Yes. Enable tethering on your eSIM. Mind your data: cloud backups and OS updates can burn gigabytes—set them to Wi‑Fi only or schedule in big cities.4) What if there’s no signal on the Uyuni/Atacama legs?That’s expected. GPS still works offline. Pre-download maps and translations, carry a power bank, and sync plans with your tour operator before departure.5) Will I get roaming charges at borders?If you’re using a multi‑country eSIM with coverage in both countries, you won’t incur extra roaming fees from your home carrier. Keep roaming off on your home SIM to avoid accidental use.6) I’m connecting via Europe or the US—worth getting a layover eSIM?Yes. It’s an easy way to test your setup and stay reachable. Try Esim North America or country options like Esim Spain, Esim France, or Esim Italy for common hubs.Next step: Browse South America coverage options and build your plan on Destinations.

31 Oct 2025
Partner Spotlight: New Reseller/Affiliate Program + Commission Tiers

Partner Spotlight: New Reseller/Affiliate Program + Commission Tiers

The Simology affiliate program is live — and it now comes with a parallel reseller track for partners who want to package eSIMs directly. Whether you publish travel guides, run a tour agency, manage a community of digital nomads or operate a marketplace, you can earn recurring commissions by recommending our eSIMs or by reselling them under your brand flow. Today’s launch adds clear commission tiers, a practical assets kit, and an upgraded tracking dashboard so you always know what’s working. You’ll also get deep links to our most-booked plans, including Esim United States, Esim France, Esim Italy, Esim Spain and regional bundles like Esim North America and Esim Western Europe. If you serve travellers, it’s an easy value-add: reliable connectivity, instant activation, and plans across our global Destinations. Below you’ll find eligibility, how commissions work, what’s in the kit, and quick steps to apply.Who the program is for (eligibility at a glance)You’re a great fit if you reach travellers or handle travel-related transactions. Typical partners include: - Content creators, publishers, bloggers, and comparison sites - Travel agents, tour operators, OTAs, airlines and rail - Fintech, banking, insurance and loyalty programmes with travel benefits - Co‑working spaces, coliving, and remote‑work communities - Student travel organisations and international education providers - Events, conferences, and destination marketing organisationsEligibility basics: - You have a live website, app, email list, or social channel with real audience reach - Your content aligns with brand‑safe standards (no misleading claims, no adult or harmful content) - You can support simple tracking (links and, for resellers, order reporting) - You agree to avoid false discounts or coupon misuseIf you’re a company seeking volume pricing, white‑label or managed onboarding, see our enterprise options under For Business.Two pathways: Affiliate vs ResellerChoose the model that matches how you engage your audience.Affiliate (recommend and refer): - Share trackable links or codes - We handle checkout, activation and support - You earn a commission on completed orders - Best for publishers, creators and communitiesReseller (package and sell): - You sell Simology eSIMs within your own flow - You set your margin on top of partner pricing - We provide fulfilment and network connectivity - Best for agencies, marketplaces and B2B bundlesNot sure? Start as an affiliate for speed, then layer on reseller later if you need deeper integration or custom margins.Commission tiers explainedWe’ve introduced transparent tiers so you can plan campaigns and forecast revenue. Tiers are assessed by paid orders per calendar month. Rates below apply to the order value excluding taxes and fees.Tier 1 (0–49 paid orders/month): 8% commission per orderTier 2 (50–199): 10% commission per orderTier 3 (200–499): 12% commission per orderTier 4 (500+): 15% commission per orderKey definitions: - Qualified order: A paid eSIM order that is not refunded or flagged as fraud within the validation window. - Attribution: Last‑click by default via your tracking link; coupon‑code attribution is supported where enabled. - Cookie window: 30 days (the click must precede purchase within 30 days). - Payout schedule: Monthly, after validation (typically within 30 days following month‑end). - Currency and method: Paid in your selected currency where available; standard options include bank transfer or PayPal.Reseller margins: - Resellers receive partner buy rates and set retail pricing. Effective margin depends on your chosen sell price. - Volume discounts may apply for high‑commitment partners. Speak to us via For Business.Note: Rates and terms may evolve; the current schedule is always available in your partner account.Your toolkit: assets kit + tracking dashboardLaunch fast with a lightweight toolkit designed for real‑world travel publishing.Assets kit highlights: - Deep links to top products: Esim United States, Esim France, Esim Italy, Esim Spain, Esim Western Europe, Esim North America, and the full Destinations index - Copy blocks and CTAs (short, medium, long) for articles, emails and in‑app prompts - “Recommended by” badges and lightweight banners (mobile‑first) - Pre‑approved product blurbs and plan FAQs to cut research time - Coupon codes (where assigned) and usage guidelinesTracking dashboard features: - Real‑time clicks, orders, conversion rate and average order value - Pending, approved and paid commission summaries - Top‑performing links and pages (identify what to scale) - SubID tracking for placements and channels (e.g., “newsletter‑oct”, “yt‑video‑italy”) - Deep‑link builder and coupon‑code mapping - Exportable reports for finance and campaign wrap‑upsWant a preview? You’ll find sample dashboard screenshots and assets in the Partner Hub.How to apply (and go live in under 48 hours)Apply in minutes; approval typically takes 1–2 business days.Step‑by‑step: 1) Visit the Partner Hub and choose Affiliate or Reseller.2) Complete the application (business details, channels, estimated volumes).3) On approval, access your dashboard, links/codes, and the assets kit.4) Add links to high‑intent pages (e.g., “How to get data in Italy” → Esim Italy).5) Publish your first placements and test a live order with your link.6) Monitor performance and iterate placements weekly.Launch checklist (copy/paste): - Add at least one deep link per top country you cover (US, France, Italy, Spain) - Place a regional bundle link where applicable (e.g., Esim Western Europe or Esim North America) - Include a short “How eSIM works” explainer and your link in relevant guides - Add your link to email footers and trip‑planning checklists - Create a coupon‑code callout above the fold (if you have a code) - Set up SubIDs for each placement to see what convertsWhat to promote first (data‑backed starting points)The fastest wins usually come from linking directly from country or region guides to the matching eSIM page. Use: - USA itineraries, work trips and event coverage → Esim United States - European city breaks and rail passes → Esim Western Europe - Schengen trips and language/culture articles → Esim France, Esim Italy, Esim Spain - Cross‑border North American travel (US + Canada + Mexico) → Esim North America - Destination pages outside your core beat → link to the full DestinationsPro tips: - Put your link where travellers actually decide: packing lists, SIM/eSIM sections, day‑1 arrival tips, and airport transfer posts. - Match link intent to plan duration (weekend city breaks vs multi‑week itineraries). - For video, add the link in the first two lines of the description and on‑screen lower‑thirds. - Use SubIDs to A/B test “Buy now” vs “Get eSIM set up in 2 minutes” CTAs. - Seasonal spikes are real; schedule refreshes before summer, winter holidays, and major events.Compliance and brand notes (quick but important)To keep conversions high and user trust intact: - Don’t promise “unlimited” where a plan is fair‑use; use the product’s actual wording. - Avoid price claims that can go out of date; prefer “from” pricing or link to live prices. - If you publish discounts, stick to your assigned code and the live terms in the dashboard. - Represent eSIM device support accurately; remind users to check device compatibility before purchase. - For queries about brand use or co‑branded assets, check the guidelines in the Partner Hub.For agencies and teamsWorking with multiple travellers or corporate itineraries? We can help set standards across your organisation: - Centralised reporting and multi‑seat access - Curated assets for your destinations portfolio - Optional reseller pricing for packaged trips - Dedicated support for integrations and bulk queriesIf this sounds like you, start on the partner track and then speak with our team via For Business about custom arrangements.Frequently asked questions1) How are commissions calculated in the Simology affiliate program?Commission is a percentage of the order value excluding taxes and fees, based on your tier for that month. An order becomes payable after the validation window (to account for refunds or fraud checks). Your dashboard shows pending, approved and paid amounts.2) What is the attribution model and cookie length?We use last‑click attribution for tracked links with a 30‑day cookie. If coupon‑code attribution is enabled on your account, eligible orders using your code will credit you even without a tracked click (subject to programme rules).3) Can I join as both affiliate and reseller?Yes. Many partners start as affiliates for simplicity, then add reseller once they’re ready to package eSIMs in their own flow. Each track has distinct terms; you’ll see both in your partner area.4) When and how do I get paid?Payouts are issued monthly after the validation window closes, typically within 30 days following month‑end. You can choose a supported payout method (e.g., bank transfer or PayPal) and set your preferred currency where available.5) Are there any traffic restrictions?We welcome organic content, email, and compliant paid traffic. Prohibited sources include misleading ads, spam, incentivised clicks that misrepresent the offer, and any content that breaches brand‑safety guidelines. Full rules are in the Partner Hub.6) Which pages convert best?Deep links to specific plan pages tend to outperform generic home links. Popular starters include Esim United States, Esim Western Europe, Esim North America, plus country pages like Esim France, Esim Italy and Esim Spain. For broader coverage, use the Destinations index.Why partners choose SimologyTraveller‑first plans with instant activation and robust coverageClear, competitive commission tiers and on‑time payoutsDeep linking and SubID structure for serious optimisationAssets you can ship today — no long creative cyclesGlobal footprint so one partnership covers your audience worldwideNext step: Apply now via the Simology Partner Hub and get your links and assets within days.

30 Oct 2025
APN, IMS & Carrier Services: The Hidden Settings That Control Your Data

APN, IMS & Carrier Services: The Hidden Settings That Control Your Data

A reliable mobile connection abroad depends on more than just signal bars. Three low‑visibility pieces of your phone’s setup do most of the heavy lifting: APN (Access Point Name), IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem) registration, and Carrier Services (or carrier settings). Get these right and data, VoLTE calls, SMS/MMS and Wi‑Fi Calling tend to “just work”. Get them wrong, and you’ll see symptoms like “connected but no internet”, calls dropping to 3G (or failing entirely in 3G‑sunset countries), delayed messages or stubborn roaming issues. This guide translates the jargon, shows you exactly where to find the settings on iOS and Android, and explains when to reset versus edit—especially crucial if you’re travelling with an eSIM.If you’re planning trips to the US, Europe or beyond, you’ll also find links to ready‑to‑use regional eSIM options such as Esim United States, Esim North America and Esim Western Europe. Keep this page handy for quick fixes on the road.Quick definitions (plain English)APN (Access Point Name): The gateway settings your phone uses to reach the mobile data network. It includes the APN name, username/password if needed, and optional fields for MMS. Think of it as the Wi‑Fi password equivalent for mobile data.IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem): The system carriers use to deliver modern voice and messaging over 4G/5G. If “IMS registration” is shown as “Registered”, your device can use VoLTE, SMS over IMS and Wi‑Fi Calling (subject to your carrier plan and device support).Carrier Services / Carrier Settings: On Android, “Carrier Services” is a Google app that provides up‑to‑date carrier configuration for things like RCS/IMS. On iPhone, “Carrier Settings” is a carrier bundle that tells iOS how to behave on a given network.Pro tip: APNs get you on the internet; IMS keeps modern calls and texts working over 4G/5G; Carrier Services/Settings glue it all together.What is APN IMS registration and why travellers should careIf you’ve searched “what is apn ims registration”, here’s the punchline: APN controls your data path; IMS registration confirms your phone is authorised to use IP‑based services like VoLTE and Wi‑Fi Calling. Travellers especially notice IMS after 3G shutdowns. In the United States, for example, carriers have retired 3G. Without IMS/VoLTE, voice calls may fail entirely or fall back to legacy tech that no longer exists. The right eSIM plus correct APN and a healthy IMS registration equals smooth sailing.Where to find these settings: iOS and AndroidiPhone (iOS)Check carrier settings version and update: 1. Settings > General > About. 2. If a “Carrier Settings Update” prompt appears, tap Update.View or edit APN (only if your carrier allows it):Settings > Mobile Data > Mobile Data Options > Mobile Data Network.If you don’t see “Mobile Data Network”, your carrier locks APN edits (normal for many profiles and eSIMs).Check VoLTE/Wi‑Fi Calling toggles:Settings > Mobile Data > Mobile Data Options > Voice & Data > ensure LTE/4G/5G is on and VoLTE enabled (label varies by iOS version).Settings > Phone > Wi‑Fi Calling > turn on if your plan supports it.Reset network settings (broad fix):Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings.Pro tips: - On iOS, you often shouldn’t manually change APN; the carrier bundle sets it. If data breaks right after installing a new eSIM, remove and re‑add the eSIM before editing APN. - If roaming, enable Settings > Mobile Data > Data Roaming.Android (varies by brand, similar paths)Update Carrier Services:Open Google Play Store > search “Carrier Services” > Update.Or Settings > Apps > Carrier Services > Storage & cache > Clear storage, then Update via Play Store.Check IMS registration status:Settings > About phone > SIM status (or Status) > IMS registration status = Registered is ideal.On some Samsung models: Settings > Connections > Mobile networks > Network operators and Voice networks; or service menu codes (advanced; use with caution).View/edit APN: 1. Settings > Network & internet (or Connections) > Mobile network > Access Point Names. 2. Select the eSIM/line if prompted. 3. Choose the correct APN or tap + to add one from your provider’s instructions.Reset APN to default:APN screen > three‑dot menu > Reset to default.Reset network settings:Settings > System > Reset options > Reset Wi‑Fi, mobile & Bluetooth.Pro tips: - Keep “Preferred network type” on 4G/5G Auto. Turning off 4G/VoLTE can break calling in 3G‑sunset regions. - If you changed Private DNS, set it to Automatic while troubleshooting.When to reset vs edit: a practical decision guideUse this simple flow when something breaks after installing a SIM/eSIM or when roaming:Symptoms: “Connected without internet” or pages time outFirst: Toggle Airplane mode off/on; reboot phone.Then: Check data roaming is ON (when abroad).Next: Confirm the APN selected matches the profile provided by your eSIM provider.If APN fields look wrong/missing: Edit or add the APN per the provider’s exact instructions.Still failing: Reset APN to default (Android) or remove/re‑add eSIM (iOS/Android).Last resort: Reset Network Settings.Symptoms: Calls failing, or no VoLTE/Wi‑Fi CallingCheck IMS registration (Android) and VoLTE/Wi‑Fi Calling toggles.Update Carrier Services (Android) or Carrier Settings (iOS).If you’re in the US, ensure your device model is VoLTE‑compatible with local networks. Consider a data‑only plan and calling apps if not. See Esim United States.Symptoms: SMS/MMS delayed or failingEnsure mobile data is enabled (MMS often needs data).Verify APN “MMS” fields are present if your provider requires them.Update Carrier Services; clear its storage and re‑open Messages (Android).Golden rules: - Edit APN only if you have exact values from a trusted source (your carrier or eSIM provider). - Prefer “Reset APN to default” over random tweaks. - Avoid third‑party APN profiles from unverified websites.How APN and IMS affect VoLTE, Wi‑Fi Calling and roamingVoLTE (Voice over LTE): Requires IMS registration and carrier/device support. Without IMS in 3G‑sunset regions (e.g., the US), calls may not connect at all. For trips that include the US or Canada, see Esim North America.Wi‑Fi Calling: Also rides on IMS. Helpful indoors or in rural areas. Must be enabled on your device and provisioned by the carrier.SMS over IMS: Modern networks route texts over LTE/5G via IMS. If IMS registration flips to “Not Registered”, texts may delay or revert to older paths, sometimes failing on data‑only profiles.MMS: Often relies on correct APN “MMS” fields and mobile data. Some eSIM data plans do not support MMS on the data line; use chat apps if needed.Roaming: The APN set by your eSIM should generally work across partner networks. If you switch networks manually, keep APN unchanged unless told otherwise.Traveller tip: - For European trips that hop across borders without fuss, regional plans like Esim Western Europe are designed to “auto‑roam” with the right APN pre‑loaded. Country‑specific options include Esim France, Esim Spain and Esim Italy.Troubleshooting checklist (save for the road)Confirm your plan is active and has data balance.Ensure the correct line/eSIM is set for Mobile Data and Calls (dual‑SIM phones).Turn Data Roaming on when abroad.Preferred network mode: 4G/5G Auto.APN: Select the profile provided by your carrier/eSIM. If missing, add it exactly as given.Toggle Airplane mode off/on; then reboot.Update Carrier Services (Android) or accept Carrier Settings Update (iOS).Check IMS registration status (Android). If “Not registered”, ensure VoLTE is enabled and try a different local network if allowed.Clear Carrier Services storage (Android) and reopen your messaging app if RCS/SMS is flaky.Remove and re‑add the eSIM profile if issues began right after installation.Reset APN to default (Android), then re‑select the correct APN.Reset Network Settings as a last resort.Pro tip: - Keep a screenshot of working APN fields before experimenting. It makes recovery painless.Planning connectivity by destinationPick an eSIM that already includes correct APN and roaming parameters to minimise manual fixes: - Browse country and regional options on Destinations. - North America trips: Esim North America or the US‑specific Esim United States. - Western Europe touring: Esim Western Europe or country‑specific choices such as Esim France, Esim Spain and Esim Italy.For teams on the move, centralise setup guidance and support via For Business. If you’re a reseller or travel partner, see our Partner Hub for resources and onboarding.FAQsWhat does “IMS registration: Not registered” mean?Your device isn’t currently authorised for IP‑based services like VoLTE/SMS over LTE on that SIM/network. Update Carrier Services (Android), ensure VoLTE is on, reboot, and try another partner network if available. Some data‑only plans won’t register IMS for voice features.Will changing my APN affect VoLTE?Indirectly. A wrong APN can block data paths needed for IMS/RCS features. Use only the APN provided by your carrier/eSIM. Avoid editing the “APN type” to include “ims”; that entry is typically system‑managed.Where do I find APN on iPhone? I can’t see the fields.Many carriers lock APN editing on iOS. If Settings > Mobile Data > Mobile Data Options > Mobile Data Network isn’t visible, the carrier bundle manages it automatically. Remove/re‑add your eSIM or accept a Carrier Settings Update instead of editing.Should I reset network settings or just APN?Start with APN reset (Android) or re‑adding the eSIM. Only use full Network Settings reset if simpler steps fail—it will forget saved Wi‑Fi and Bluetooth pairings.Do I need Carrier Services on Android?Yes. It’s a Google component that updates carrier config for IMS/RCS. Keep it updated. If messages misbehave, clear its storage and relaunch your messages app.Why do calls fail in the US but data works?Likely a VoLTE/IMS issue on a 3G‑sunset network. Ensure VoLTE is on, IMS is registered, and your device is compatible. If not, use data‑based calling apps and pick a plan optimised for the region, such as Esim United States.The bottom lineAPN gets you online; IMS keeps VoLTE/SMS/Wi‑Fi Calling alive; Carrier Services/Settings keep both in sync.On iOS, avoid manual APN edits unless instructed. On Android, use “Reset to default” before entering trusted APN values.For travel, choose eSIMs with correct roaming profiles and keep VoLTE enabled—critical in 3G‑sunset countries.Next step: pick a region‑ready eSIM on Destinations and travel with confidence.

30 Oct 2025