Bitrefill, a crypto e-commerce platform, has partnered with eSIM Go to offer crypto users the ability to purchase eSIMs in 140 countries. This partnership allows crypto advocates to exchange their cryptocurrency for data at the point of purchase, using popular cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin (BTC), the Bitcoin Lightning Network, Ether (ETH), and stablecoins like Tether (USDT). With this new development, living on crypto and traveling the world becomes much more accessible.
Sergej Kotliar, the founder and CEO of Bitrefill, highlighted the significance of this collaboration. In an email, he stated, “Everyone who uses data on their phone is a potential customer […]. Right now, we’re directing it at travelers — many crypto users who travel the world either live as digital nomads or travel for conferences and such.” This indicates that the target audience for this service is crypto users who frequently travel and need reliable mobile data.
To purchase eSIMs with cryptocurrency, the process is straightforward, according to Kotliar. He explained, “You can just get an e-SIM from the airplane wifi, install it in a minute, and be online from the moment your plane touches down on the tarmac, without worrying about getting a massive surprise bill from your telco.” This convenience and cost-saving feature make it easier for crypto users to stay connected while traveling internationally.
Founded in 2014, Bitrefill initially focused on enabling crypto users to live solely on Bitcoin through the purchase of gift cards. The integration of eSIMs into their platform now caters to the needs of travelers and holidaymakers who want to avoid relying on fiat money payment systems. This integration aligns with Bitrefill’s mission of expanding the usability and practicality of cryptocurrencies in everyday life.
Living solely on Bitcoin, even in countries considered Bitcoin-friendly like El Salvador, can be challenging. Cointelegraph reporter Joe Hall experienced this firsthand during his investigation into Bitcoin adoption in El Salvador. Hall relied on the assistance of a local resident to load his phone with mobile data due to difficulties he encountered while attempting to buy phone credit with Bitcoin. This obstacle highlights the importance of services like Bitrefill’s eSIM integration as they bridge the gap between cryptocurrency and everyday expenses for travelers.
The Bitrefill integration specifically addresses the needs of Bitcoin advocates making their way to El Salvador, as it allows them to purchase data with Bitcoin as soon as they connect to WiFi at San Salvador airport. This provides a seamless user experience for crypto users and eliminates the hassle of converting their Bitcoin to fiat currency for mobile data purposes.
In the realm of eSIM providers, Bitrefill’s partnership with eSIM Go faces competition from Silent.Link, which offers an anonymous eSIM option for travelers who prefer to pay with cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Monero (XMR). Additionally, telecommunications provider MoreMins also accepts crypto payments for their data services. These options provide alternatives for crypto users seeking to conduct transactions without the need for traditional payment methods.
Overall, with the collaboration between Bitrefill and eSIM Go, crypto users now have expanded access to eSIMs in various countries worldwide. This development facilitates the use of cryptocurrencies as a medium of exchange for everyday expenses like mobile data while traveling. As the crypto industry continues to evolve, more services like these are likely to emerge, further blurring the lines between digital and traditional economies.
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