Insider Spotlight
The company has rolled out an in-app travel eSIM service first in the Philippines, allowing Viber users to purchase data-only roaming packages for international trips without installing another app or swapping physical SIM cards. The service runs on Rakuten Mobile’s AI-enabled, cloud-native eSIM platform.
Why it matters
Travel eSIMs offer an increasingly accessible alternative to conventional roaming and physical local SIM cards as more smartphones support embedded SIM technology. Global travel eSIM revenue is projected to grow 380 percent from 2025 to 2030, according to Juniper Research.
Users can access the eSIM store through Viber’s More or Calls screens and choose travel data plans covering hundreds of destinations. Purchases use integrated payment methods, while installation can be completed through a quick-install link, QR code or manual setup.
The bigger picture
The eSIM offering forms part of Viber’s effort to consolidate more services within its platform, alongside Business Accounts, Viber Dating, Viber Pay and Viber Out, the company said in a release.
The move also gives Rakuten another avenue to extend its mobile technology beyond traditional telecom operations and into digital platforms.
“Bringing eSIM to Viber is a major milestone. It highlights the power of the Rakuten Ecosystem and our commitment to building a true super app. We’ve already integrated services such as Business Accounts, Viber Dating, and Viber Pay, and eSIM expands that momentum with a new connectivity option,” Rakuten Viber CPO Nadav Melnick said.
“This launch reinforces Viber as a single platform that supports a wide range of user needs. We’re evolving from a messaging app into an everyday utility, making international travel simpler and more affordable. With Rakuten Mobile, users can access Viber internationally and stay reliably connected across borders,” Melnick said.
What they're saying
“We are proud to partner with Rakuten Viber in advancing its leading super app vision. By leveraging Rakuten Mobile’s eSIM platform and our role as a mobile network operator, we are enabling Rakuten Viber to seamlessly embed travel eSIM and global connectivity into its ecosystem,” Rakuten Mobile Inc. senior vice president for international wholesale business Tarek Zeid said.
“With cost-effective, internationally available connectivity, we are removing barriers and ensuring that staying connected while traveling is no longer a luxury, but an affordable and seamless convenience for everyone.” Zeid said. — Princess Daisy C. Ominga| Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
