turbophreak

Yeah so how I understand it is there is an eSIM and a SIM slot, like the one in the picture above. An eSIM is a hardwired, programmable SIM chip embedded in the MMI. This is the SIM that the B9 defaults to for a cellular connection. Because it embedded the only current way for the eSIM to be programmed is through Audi. This is likely how they offer the Audi Connect trial services for new customers without providing a physical SIM and then requiring the user to setup APNs and whatnot.

The SIM slot is probably there if and when Audi were to allow additional carriers to provide the services. Right now the wireless carrier is locked to AT&T in the US and as far as I know there is no way to use your own SIM, even with the SIM slot populated.

edwyun

Can you use a freedompop SIM on our models?

turbophreak

Unfortunately not. Audi restricts the slot as far as I know. Not saying it's impossible but I don't think anyone's cracked that code yet at least from everything I've read.

agarcnyc

Their profile shows them being in Sydney. Some markets require the use of the SIM slot for Audi Connect. Not every mobile provider supports eSIMs.

turbophreak

You sure? Both posters I replied to had US profiles. Our friend Martigary posted the picture, I believe he is from Australia. Anyway, that's probably why there is an external SIM slot, for ROW applications or smaller US carriers who don't support eSIM. In the US all major carriers support eSIM except Sprint.

objectivist

I use the SIM slot (in Australia). Any SIM with a data plan will provide the car with a permanent 4G/LTE connection.

Martigary

You have it right there, for ROW requirements. It appears that the US market is very restrictive in what Audi can offer. In the real world we have the option to use an external SIM card to provide permanent mobile access to the vehicle or the ability to link your mobile phone. It all comes down to personal choice to who you want your mobile service to be provided from. Only big problem with Audi Connect is it is currently limited to Google maps and search.

edwyun

I have seen posts by owners in the USA in other forums where they use a SIM card after their Audi Connect expires. Just don't know whether that works with the 2019 models.

turbophreak

Yeah you could do this on the B8, not a very intuitive procedure but it could be done with a little research on the forums. B9 is locked down tighter. Someone will figure it out though.

Audi really wants to sell Audi Connect through their partnership with AT&T but their sales numbers are proving people aren't interested. This was why they split off certain items like door lock/unlock into Audi Connect CARE, which is now free (at least in the US). Especially since 2018 models are losing Google Maps next year there just isn't a whole lot of benefit for the price of Audi Connect PRIME. My guess is they'll unlock everything at some point so we can use our own SIM.