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.
What is eSIM?
What Is eSIM?
eSIM stands for “embedded SIM.” Unlike a traditional SIM card that you insert into your phone, an eSIM is built into your device’s hardware and can be programmed digitally. It serves the same function, connecting your phone to a mobile network without a physical SIM card or slot.
With an eSIM, you can activate a cellular plan by scanning a QR code or downloading a profile through an app or carrier. It’s especially useful for frequent travelers, dual-SIM users, or anyone who wants the flexibility to switch carriers without needing to physically swap SIM cards.
How Does eSIM Work?
An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital version of the traditional SIM card. Instead of inserting a physical card into your phone, your device downloads an eSIM profile directly from a carrier or provider. This allows you to connect to a mobile network without swapping cards or visiting a store.
The biggest advantage of eSIMs is flexibility. You can switch between mobile plans, carriers, or countries without needing to carry multiple SIM cards. For travelers, eSIMs make it easy to add a local or international data plan instantly while keeping your home number active.
Is My Phone eSIM Compatible?
Most flagship phones released in the past few years support eSIM. Here’s how to check:
- iPhone: All models from iPhone XS, XR, and newer support eSIM.
- Android: Many models from Google Pixel 3 and up, Samsung Galaxy S20 series and newer, and select Motorola and Huawei phones are compatible.
- You can also check your phone’s settings:
- Go to Settings > Cellular (iPhone) or Settings > Network & Internet (Android).
- Look for an option to Add eSIM, Download SIM, or Add Cellular Plan.
If those options are present, your phone supports eSIM. If not, it likely doesn’t. We also have another article If you prefer a step-by-step guide for eSIM compatibility.
How Does eSIM Work for International Travel?
When you land in a new country, your eSIM can automatically connect to a supported local carrier. All you need is a compatible device and a prepaid data plan. Most providers, like Eskimo, let you purchase and activate plans before your trip. Once you're there, your phone just connects. No paperwork, no store visit.
Some plans are regional (like Europe-only), while others are truly global. Eskimo offers the latter, letting you move across 80+ countries. with the same data package. In total, Eskimo has coverage in 130+ destinations.
How to Use eSIM for International Travel
Here’s a step-by-step on how to use eSIM for international travel:
- Check device compatibility: Make sure your phone supports eSIM. iPhones XS and newer, Google Pixel 3 and up, and many Samsung models do.
- Pick a provider: Choose a global or regional eSIM plan. Look for coverage maps, validity, and pricing. Eskimo has some of the best pricing in the market, and with extendable, 2-year data plan validity.
- Buy and activate: With providers like Eskimo, you can buy a plan online and install it using QR code, Activation Code or via Direct Installation from our app.
- Configure your settings: Set the eSIM as your data line and keep your physical SIM for calls/texts if needed.
- Roam freely: Enjoy high-speed internet abroad without the hassle of traditional SIM swaps or roaming fees.
Planning ahead is key. Install and test your eSIM before your trip to ensure it works once you land.
How to Activate eSIM on iPhone
Activating an eSIM on an iPhone is a quick process, especially if you're running iOS 12.1 or later. Here's how to do it:
- Go to Settings > Cellular.
- Tap Add eSIM or Add Cellular Plan.
- Use your camera to scan the QR code provided by your eSIM carrier or enter the details manually.
- Follow the on-screen steps to label the line (e.g., “Travel” or “Data”) and set your preferred line for voice, data, and iMessage.
Some carriers also support carrier activation or eSIM apps, where you can download the plan directly from the app without needing a QR code.
Eskimo has made activation simpler by introducing a Direct Installation feature. Just click one button from the app, and your setup is more seamless than ever.
How to Activate eSIM on Android
Android steps vary slightly by brand, but the general flow is similar:
- Go to Settings > Network & Internet or Connections.
- Tap SIMs or Mobile Network, then select Add eSIM or Download SIM.
- Scan the QR code from your eSIM provider or enter activation info manually.
- Confirm and apply the new plan.
On some phones like Google Pixel or Samsung Galaxy, you may also find the option under Settings > Connections > SIM card manager.
For a more detailed guide, read more on the complete eSIM installation guide on Android.
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.
Eskimo eSIM is a data-only Global eSIM. Roam like home with our partner networks in 130+ countries without roaming charges. Moreover, Eskimo eSIMs are valid for a lifetime and our data plans are valid for 2 years (and extendable!). Find out why 500,000 people worldwide are choosing Eskimo.
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.
- Switching Devices: Switching eSIMs from one device to another is different from traditional SIM cards, but it's actually easy to do. You can even transfer your eSIM from an iPhone to an Android.
eSIM vs. SIM
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."
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!).
Try Global eSIM for Free
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!