SBTS and ZIM Connections Launch Travel eSIM Service Powered by SoftBank, Starting With Japan
SBTS, the joint venture formed by global entertainment group BTS and SoftBank Corp., has partnered with ZIM Connections to introduce a new travel eSIM solution designed to simplify connectivity for international travelers. The service, now commercially available, initially focuses on inbound and outbound travel to and from Japan, with plans for a broader global expansion in the coming phases.
The launch represents a strategic collaboration that combines platform technology from ZIM Connections with the network reach and commercial capabilities of SoftBank. By leveraging SoftBank’s wireless infrastructure in Japan, the partners aim to deliver reliable, high-speed connectivity for travelers while building a scalable foundation for future international offerings.
Digital-First Travel Connectivity
At the core of the launch is a fully digital eSIM platform developed by ZIM Connections and commercialized by SoftBank. The service allows travelers to search, purchase, and activate unlimited data plans directly from their devices, eliminating the need for physical SIM cards or in-store purchases.
Through a streamlined online experience, users can choose their destination, select an appropriate plan, and activate their eSIM within minutes. The initial rollout is designed to serve two primary groups:
- International travelers visiting Japan
- Japan-based travelers heading abroad
By focusing first on Japan’s inbound tourism market and outbound travelers, the partners are targeting a high-demand segment while validating the platform for global deployment.
First Step in a Global Rollout
While the service is already live and accessible to consumers worldwide, the Japan-focused launch represents only the first phase of a broader strategy. Future updates will introduce additional languages, currencies, and payment options to make the platform more accessible to a global audience.
Subsequent phases are expected to expand the solution into new regions, offering additional versions of the travel eSIM service tailored to different markets and traveler needs.
According to Giulia Acchioni Mena, co-founder and COO of ZIM Connections, the launch addresses growing expectations for seamless digital connectivity:
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. It’s built to scale and adapt as traveler needs continue to evolve.”
Partnership-Driven Innovation
Executives from the partner organizations emphasized the role of collaboration in accelerating the launch.
Norioki Sekiguchi, CEO of SBTS, noted that combining platform expertise with market reach enabled the partners to bring a ready-to-deploy solution to market. He highlighted the partnership as an example of how aligned organizations can drive innovation and scale new services quickly.
Akihiro Kato, Senior Director at SoftBank’s Cross-border Business Promotion Office, added that the travel eSIM expands SoftBank’s product portfolio while addressing the needs of both inbound visitors and Japanese travelers overseas. He described the launch as a step toward deeper product development and more comprehensive connectivity offerings.
Open to All Travelers
Unlike some carrier-specific services, the new travel eSIM is available globally to B2C users and is not limited to existing SoftBank subscribers. Travelers can access the platform online, choose their destination, and activate unlimited data plans without switching primary carriers.
This open approach is intended to broaden the service’s appeal and support rapid adoption among international travelers.
Building a Foundation for the Future
The initial release marks the beginning of a long-term collaboration between SBTS, SoftBank, and ZIM Connections. The partners plan to expand travel connectivity services into additional markets, introducing new features and localized offerings as the platform evolves.
As global travel continues to rebound and digital connectivity becomes a core expectation, the new travel eSIM service positions the partnership to capture growing demand for flexible, app-based mobile solutions. By starting with Japan and scaling outward, the companies aim to create a global ecosystem of travel connectivity products that deliver convenience, speed, and reliability to travelers worldwide.
About ZIM Connections
ZIM Connections is the Gateway to Global eSIM Connectivity for Businesses and Customers Worldwide. ZIM provides seamless international connectivity solutions that help businesses and individuals stay connected effortlessly. By offering a plug-and-play eSIM platform with global coverage in over 200 destinations, ZIM simplifies connectivity management and enables telecom providers to expand their services without complex integration.
For more information, visit zimconnections.com or contact Giulia Acchioni Mena at giulia.acchioni@zimconnections.com.
About SBTS
A joint venture between SoftBank Corp. and BTS, SBTS helps carriers, CPaaS providers, hyperscalers, and enterprises navigate markets, technologies, and regulations. Solving global complexity through frictionless communications, smarter delivery, and stronger profitability, SBTS combines deep international expertise with regional specialization in APAC and the Middle East. Leveraging the S1 platform, SBTS delivers seamless, sustainable connectivity, programmable communications, identity, and protection solutions.
