Recently, netizens discovered that China Unicom has quietly rolled out an eSIM activation page for smartphones on its official app and select online channels.
According to the company's guidelines, during the eSIM commercial trial phase, first-time users must visit a China Unicom-owned service center, partner stores are not yet supported, with a valid ID and the device to be activated, or schedule an on-site service appointment. Returning users, however, can complete the process online by resubmitting their identification documents.
Previously, China Unicom pioneered eSIM trials for standalone wearable devices and commercially deployed dual-SIM, one number, two devices, eSIM services in some cities. This new eSIM trial for smartphones signals that the technology's application in China is gradually expanding from "secondary devices" to "primary terminals."