Visible, the prepaid service provider owned by Verizon, adds some new services that it uses to do a little more like sign up for one of the major wireless service providers. As of today, Visible now supports service activation via eSIM. It only works with recent, compatible iPhones, but Visible says it will soon be adding support for Android devices. The company also offers 5G service (with limits) and free calls and messages to Canada and Mexico.
Visible customers’ access to Verizon’s 5G network has some key features: both Nationwide and Ultra Wideband are included, but data speeds are limited to 200 Mbps. Direct service provider subscribers (AKA Verizon customers) also prefer the fastest data rate during times of congestion. It is also a common use of MVNOs. Although they can offer competitive prices, they are usually subject to restrictions, such as speed reduction for heavy data users and streaming video only at 480p.
ESIM support makes a lot of sense with Visible’s digital premise: Customers with compatible phones can switch to Visible without waiting for a physical SIM card to be posted. Opting for a built-in rather than removable SIM card makes it easier to switch from an existing device with eSIM technology. It is also very attractive for MVNOs trying to compete with the big transport companies.
Visible’s announcement today also includes news about its Party Pay plans, which allow customers to share plan costs with separate accounts and invoices. Previously, four people were limited, and these plans can now include an unlimited number of lines.
Finally, Visible will no longer charge for calls and text messages between the US and Canada, Mexico, US Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. It is increasingly the norm for US airlines to include calls and text messages from the US to neighboring regions at no extra charge or at a low monthly fixed rate. All of these features (except for upcoming Android eSIM support) are available from today.
Update, February 9: In a previous version of this post, Visible was identified as an ‘MVNO’. An MVNO is a service provider that does not own the infrastructure, which is used to provide service, but rather rents it. Visible is the entire property of Verizon, and therefore prefers that the company not be named an MVNO.