« Older Entries

eSIMs: How to activate yours

If you’re the owner of a smartphone released in the last year or two, it’s likely that your phone is fitted with an eSIM. If you’re unsure what eSIMs are, don’t worry as you’re not alone. Millions of smartphone users around the world are holding a device that has its very own virtual SIM card built inside that helps them connect to cellular services – and they don’t even know it!

What are eSIMs?

eSIM is a chip embedded inside a range of devices that can either replace an existing SIM card, or act as a companion to it. A bit like a regular SIM, users can purchase cellular plans that activate the SIM with services like voice, SMS and data. And just like a regular SIM card, a user can choose from a whole host of network providers and deals.

However, an eSIM is activated in a totally different way to a regular SIM card. Unlike purchasing a physical SIM card from a network operator like Vodafone, users can download their mobile service over the internet and activate their eSIM at any time. The plan will even work concurrently with a user’s regular SIM card, meaning there’s no need to remove an existing SIM.

Although a user can only have one physical SIM card loaded into a phone at a time, they can actually store as many eSIM plans as they like within the single embedded SIM. They can switch easily between network providers and offerings, always making sure they have the best deal possible.

Why use an eSIM?

There are many uses for eSIMs, but the most common is to support cheap communication while traveling overseas. As an eSIM chip can be reprogrammed to any participating mobile network provider around the world, users are no longer tied to expensive roaming charges applied by their regular operator. Instead, those with an eSIM-enabled device can find and download a cost-effective plan for their chosen location – whether that be from a local operator or an eSIM designed for travel.

Other uses for eSIM include:

Adding a second line to your handset and enjoying a personal and business line on one device
Being able to access multiple networks to enjoy stronger coverage in your area
Connecting other devices to the internet. i.e. tablets or wearables

Where do you buy eSIMs?

eSIMs can be bought through participating traditional Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) like Verizon, T&T or O2, or through Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) who own online eSIM stores. However, no two eSIM plans are the same and offerings will vary depending on whom you choose to purchase from.

MNO plans are popular for a number of reasons:

A user wishes to switch their regular plan over to an eSIM plan
A user wishes to add a second line to their device from the same operator
When overseas, they want to download an eSIM plan from a local MNO to benefit from local-rates
So, why is there a demand for stores that sell eSIMs online? What is the difference?

Instant download – customers buy online and can activate their plan immediately
Often cheaper than domestic MNOs, with the same level of coverage (or more)
Greater variety of plans and packages available – everything from data-only bundles to global plans with voice, SMS and data services
Generally less commitment and greater flexibility – no lengthy contracts
Regardless of where you choose to purchase your eSIM from, the plan is activated over-the-air and completed by scanning a provided QR code which is sent to you via email or in the post. Users scan the QR code using the guidelines provided and then follow the instructions given by your phone manufacturer. Set-up is done in a matter of seconds.

eSIM devices list

Not sure if your smartphone is eSIM enabled? Here is a list of compatible eSIM-enabled handsets and laptops/tablets:

Handsets:

Apple’s iPhone 10, 11 and SE (2020) series’
Huawei’s P40 series’
Samsung’s S20 and Z Flip series’, Note 20+ and Galaxy Fold
Motorola Razar
Google Pixel 3 and 4 series’
Tablets and PCs:

Apple’s iPad Mini (5th gen.), iPad (7th gen.), iPad Air (3rd gen.), 12.9-inch iPad Pro (3rd gen.), 11-inch iPad Pro
Windows 10 devices

In the coming years, it is expected that up to 60% of all smartphone sales will be eSIM-enabled, making it the norm to download your mobile service over the internet. If you already have an eSIM-compatible device in your hand, why not activate a plan today?

Tags:

Factors that Influence the Cost of Dental Implants

In dentistry, dental implants have gained a popular reputation for their real appearance and longevity. The process is prescribed for replacing the tooth (teeth) and giving a beautiful look to the overall oral structure.

Though dental implants are a guaranteed treatment with very little discomfort, people often take their step back. And the reason is cost.

The process is costly, but not for all. The cost of the treatment depends on the service provider, your condition, and many other factors.

In this post, we have discussed the factors that influence the cost of dental implants.

Location of the dental clinic (big or small city)

The location of the dental clinic plays a major role in determining the cost of the service. If the clinic is located in larger cities, the cost will be higher as other related costs are comparatively high as compared to smaller cities. The expenses incurred by the dental clinics are taken through the services offered by them.

Experience/certification of the dentist

The certification and experience levels of dental implant surgeons are not the same. And these attributes make a major difference in the cost of the procedure. If the doctor is less-qualified, he may resort to lowering their prices to attract new clients. On the other hand, if the dentist is experienced, he will charge high because their implants last for a lifetime. There is no need for process redoing.

Number of teeth for implant

Another factor to define the cost of a dental implant is the number of teeth to be treated. If you are looking for full-mouth restoration, the cost will higher as compare to a single tooth. There is a condition in the costing. Some providers charge a fee for each required implant and abutment placed, while others charge a fixed price for any number of implants in a full restoration. You should discuss this at the initial cost.

Type of material used

The implants are made from titanium, but the prosthetic teeth may vary in material quality and cost. The two common materials used for prosthetic teeth are acrylic and zirconia. Zirconia is the highest quality material that is designed to last a lifetime. The initial cost of the zirconia is high but it’s cost-effective in the long-term. They are less likely to break or wear out. You shouldn’t choose cheaper quality material as it would require repair or replacement later on.

Use of anesthesia in the procedure

With the advancement in dentistry, the use of anesthesia has also changed. Dentists have three anesthesia options for dental implants and they are local anesthesia, general anesthesia, and IV sedation.

In local anesthesia, an injection or swab of medicine is used to numb the area being treated.
In IV sedation, a needle is placed in a vein through which medication is administered to sedate the patient.
In general anesthesia, the dentist places the patients in a state of sleep in which the central nervous system is inhibited.
Usually, general anesthesia is used because it protects unwanted objects from entering the lungs. It’s costly but effective.

Quality of bone

Dental implants are impossible if your jaw bone quality is not or not strong enough to hold the implant. In either case, your procedure time will increase for the dentists. They have to perform a pre-treatment for strengthening the bones. Once your jawbones are strong, the dentists will start the implant. The processes for strengthening the jawbones are sinus lift, bone grafting, and zygomatic implants. The cost of these procedures will determine the overall cost of the dental implants.

Considering these factors, we hope it will be easy for you to determine the cost of the procedure and choose the right service provider.

Tags:

Ways to Stay Healthy During Ramadan

Healthy eating means eating diversity of foods which provides nutrients (incorporates protein, fat, vitamins, carbohydrates and minerals) that you need to maintain your health, good and full of energy. Following are some ways or suggestions which may help you to stay healthy during Ramadan holy month.

• Similarly to breakfast, sahri is the beginning meal of the day in Ramadan month. Sehri will support you to keep your body hydrated till Iftar time. Keep in mind that meal of sehri should contains carbs, fiber and protein.

• To keep yourself away from the processed foods (such as sugar and white flour) is a good option because these type of foods may be higher in calories because of the high amount of added sugar and fat. Also, comparatively it contains a little amount of nutrients.

• A diet of fresh fruits and vegetables may help you to protect against many diseases and may be a substitute of junk foods that we eat on regular basis. They are an excellent source of vital vitamins and minerals and are high in fiber. It is suggested to choose fruits and vegetables which are full of water like melons, cucumber, pumpkins and squash etc.

• Eat a lot at Iftar time is not going to be good for your health. However, you may have desire to eat a lot at Iftar time. So, it is preferable for you to not in rush at the time of eating. You may start with having few dates and then have water. Everyone knows that dates are good source of energy and also get benefited in digestive system as well.

• In Holy month of Ramadan, it is essential to drink plenty of liquids, mainly water due to the long period of fasting. Sources of liquids for the body contains water, juices and soups. So keep in mind that you have to drink at least 7-8 cups of water on regular basis in Ramadan.

1. As far as staying hydrated is concerned, you need to avoid caffeine because it is the worst thing. Those who generally consume caffeinated drinks like tea, coffee and colas during the day then the lack of caffeine while having fast may in the beginning lead to headaches and fatigue.

2. Secondly, there is a need to avoid fried food too. Because these type of foods are high in fat, calories and salted. According to a study, fried foods are often linked with serious health problems such as diabetes and heart disease.

In my opinion, you should consult with the specialist before Ramadan in case if you are over aged or suffering from diseases like diabetes and same advice has to be follow for the pregnant women. So, you should follow the above mentioned suggestions or ways to keep yourself fit and healthy during Ramadan.

Tags: