Holafly Launches Global eSIM Index Tracking Adoption Across 50 Markets

KUALA LUMPUR, May 14 (Bernama) -- Holafly, the global leader in travel eSIMs, launched the Holafly Global eSIM Index 2026, a study assessing commercial readiness for eSIM adoption across 50 markets and 168 mobile network operators worldwide.

Developed with TeleSemana.com, the index evaluates factors including market readiness, activation systems, competition, regulatory frameworks and user experience through a zero-to-100 scoring model.

In a statement, Holafly said the findings indicate eSIM technology has moved beyond the development stage into broad commercial deployment, with adoption now shaped mainly by regulatory conditions, device availability and service accessibility.

Holafly Vice President of Carriers and Operations, Chris Hills said future eSIM adoption would depend on how effectively markets enable seamless digital access and user experiences.

According to the index, the United States ranked first globally with a score of 90.2, followed by Estonia and the United Kingdom.

The study also identified structural and regulatory barriers limiting adoption in markets including Sudan, India and Liberia.

Holafly said the index includes a penalty mechanism for markets restricting access to international eSIM providers, aiming to reflect actual consumer accessibility alongside operator capability.

The company said growing demand for flexible and borderless mobile connectivity is accelerating the transition from physical SIM cards toward digital activation systems for international travellers.

-- BERNAMA