SBTS and ZIM Connections have announced a strategic partnership to launch a travel eSIM solution that revolutionizes connectivity for international travelers. The service, which went live on February 10, 2026, initially focuses on inbound and outbound travel to and from Japan, leveraging SoftBank Corp.’s robust wireless network infrastructure.
The digital platform enables travelers to search for, purchase, and activate unlimited global eSIM plans through a seamless digital experience. This marks the first phase of a broader global rollout that will expand to multiple markets worldwide, offering enhanced connectivity solutions for modern travelers who demand instant, reliable mobile access.
How the Travel eSIM Platform Works
The travel eSIM platform developed by ZIM Connections and commercialized by SoftBank Corp. provides a fully digital solution for travelers. Users can access the platform online from anywhere in the world, select their destination, purchase an unlimited data plan, and activate their eSIM within minutes. The service is available globally to B2C users and is not limited to SoftBank subscribers, making it accessible to a wide range of international travelers.
The initial launch targets two key segments: travelers visiting Japan who need reliable connectivity during their stay, and Japan-based travelers heading abroad who want to maintain seamless communication. By utilizing SoftBank’s established network infrastructure, the service ensures high-quality connectivity throughout the region.
Strategic Partnership Benefits
This collaboration brings together ZIM Connections’ platform expertise with SBTS’s market reach and SoftBank’s telecommunications infrastructure. The partnership demonstrates how aligned business relationships can accelerate the delivery of market-ready innovation in the rapidly evolving travel technology sector.
“Travelers today expect simple, digital-first connectivity wherever they go. This launch brings a seamless travel eSIM experience to market, designed to meet the strong demand around inbound travel to Japan and international mobility more broadly.”
Giulia Acchioni Mena, Co-founder and COO of ZIM Connections
The service represents a fully commercial market introduction that delivers immediate value to travelers while establishing a foundation for international expansion. Future phases will introduce additional languages, currencies, and payment methods to accommodate diverse global markets.
Future Expansion Plans
The current launch is just the beginning of a broader collaboration aimed at expanding travel connectivity services across additional markets worldwide. The companies plan to roll out enhanced features and expand geographical coverage in subsequent phases, making the travel eSIM solution available to more destinations and user segments.
“This collaboration brings together the right mix of platform expertise and market reach to deliver a scalable travel connectivity solution. It demonstrates how aligned partnerships can accelerate market-ready innovation.”
Norioki Sekiguchi, CEO of SBTS
Industry Impact and Market Positioning
The launch positions both companies at the forefront of the growing travel connectivity market. ZIM Connections operates as a gateway to global eSIM connectivity, providing plug-and-play solutions with coverage in over 200 destinations. SBTS, as a joint venture between SoftBank Corp. and BTS, brings deep international expertise with regional specialization in APAC and the Middle East.
“Expanding our product suite with travel eSIM is an important step in serving both inbound visitors to Japan and Japanese travelers going abroad. This allows us to bring a market-ready solution to customers quickly, while building the foundation for deeper product development in the future.”
Akihiro Kato, Senior Director at SoftBank’s Cross-border Business Promotion Office
The service addresses the growing demand for hassle-free international connectivity as global travel continues to rebound and evolve. By eliminating the need for physical SIM cards and providing instant activation, the platform meets the expectations of modern travelers who prioritize convenience and digital-first solutions.
