What is eSIM?
In the digital world, connectivity is becoming crucial. They are also helpful when it comes to conventional SIM cards. As technology advances, so does our interaction with people. One recent concept in the field of telecommunication is "embedded SIM", usually referred to as eSIM. Look into the latest technology of the eSIM by looking into its pros and cons and what may innovate in the future.
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What is an eSIM?
eSIM is a form of digital SIM that allows subscribers to activate their accounts without using a physical SIM card from their provider. Rather than removing SIM cards and replacing them back into the device, eSIM profiles will be added to your eUICC, allowing you to switch between different profiles with a few clicks. This technology is not only more practical but opens doors for greater creative and dynamic applications of mobile devices.
How eSIM Works
An eSIM is basically a more advanced version of a local SIM card, with the only difference being that eSIMs are free from the confinement of plastic cards and can be inserted virtually in the device. In essence, each eSIM stored in a device is a digital representation of one or more physical SIMs and consists of subscriber carrier information and authentication credentials to facilitate the switching of carriers or plans without the need to replace the physical card. Furthermore, the remote controllability of eSIMs allows for features like over-the-air updates and activation, in addition to their digital form.
Future of eSIM
Remote activation makes eSIMs a go-to choice for many travellers. Experts from Juniper Research forecast an increase of 440% in travel eSIM global adoption for the next 5 years. This flexibility appeals to the general audience as well – and GSMA Intelligence, a leader in mobile industry analytics, expects 850 million eSIM smartphone connections by 2025, and a whopping 6.7 billion eSIM smartphone connections by 2030 (that’s almost a 1:1 ratio to the world population!).
Different Types of eSIM
There are a few common types of eSIM:
Data-Only eSIM: Provides mobile data but does not support voice calls or SMS. Common for travelers and IoT devices.
Voice, SMS & Data eSIM: Works like a traditional SIM, offering mobile data, voice calls, and SMS. It comes with a local mobile number, typically used as your primary profile.
Travel eSIM: Designed for short-term use in foreign countries, offering prepaid data plans for international travelers. Usually, the shelf life of these eSIMs is the same as the validity of the pre-loaded data plans.
Regional eSIM: Covers multiple countries in a specific region.
Global eSIM: Covers multiple countries or the entire world under one plan.
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What is Dual-SIM?
Dual-SIM has been around for more than a decade. As the name implies, you can use two SIM cards concurrently and the same can be done with eSIMs.
Common use cases:
- Two SIM cards (most common)
- One SIM card and one eSIM (more common)
- Two eSIMs (least common)
The SIM/eSIM Slot 1 is usually used for the local, primary mobile number and Slot 2 is used for business or travel purposes.
Advantages of eSIM
- Simple and quick: You do not need to go to any location to buy any SIM using an eSIM. No switching physical SIM cards anymore.
- Space-saving: By using eSIMs, manufacturers can save space by optimizing device storage and allowing room for other components.
- Security: it's hard to tamper with an eSIM card; since they don't hold physical form, they are more damage-resistant than SIM cards. They also possess various kinds of modern encryption to secure the user's local information.
- Eco-Friendly: Digital in nature means a reduction in plastic waste.
- Multiple eSIM Profiles: iPhone 15 can store up to 8 eSIM profiles, allowing you to have eSIMs from different providers for different scenarios.
Disadvantages of eSIM
- Compatibility issues: Not all devices now support eSIM technology. While acceptance rates are improving, eSIMs may take some time to become widely available. Here are some ways to check your device compatibility.
- Limited Carrier Support: Although many major carriers support eSIMs, smaller or regional carriers may not yet do so.
- Setup Issues: The setting and activation of an eSIM are somewhat more difficult than in the case of a normal SIM card, especially for persons with limited technical skills. Check out our guides for eSIM installation on iOS and Android.
- Switching Devices: Switching eSIMs from one device to another is different from traditional SIM cards, but it's actually easy to do.
eSIM vs. SIM Comparison
It's important to differentiate between eSIM and traditional SIM cards in order to comprehend the technology. Here's a quick overview:
eSIM
- Activation: Over-the-air and remote activation
- Flexibility: Can switch carriers easily
- Space usage: eUICC and frees up device space
- Security: More secure due to advanced encryption and less prone to tampering
- Environmental impact: Minimal plastic waste
SIM
- Activation: Manually done by using a SIM ejector
- Flexibility: Requires a physical SIM swap
- Space usage: Occupies physical space in the device
- Security: Can be physically tampered with or stolen
- Environmental impact: Quoting Juniper Research, "4.5 billion SIM cards are issued and shipped each year... over 18,000 tons of plastic waste and 560,000 tons of carbon dioxide emitted annually."
Conclusion
The rise of eSIM technology marks a significant shift in the way we stay connected. With its convenience, security, and environmental benefits, eSIMs are shaping the future of mobile connectivity. As adoption continues to grow, we can expect even greater innovation, making travel, work, and everyday communication more seamless than ever.
Whether you're a frequent traveler, a tech enthusiast, or simply looking for a hassle-free mobile experience, eSIMs offer a compelling alternative to traditional SIM cards. For a limited time, we have a signup promotion where you can get a free 500MB Global eSIM with no strings attached. Try it today and experience the future of mobile connectivity!