- An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital SIM card that is embedded directly into a device.
- An eSIM activates your cellular data plan just like a traditional SIM card
- eSIMs and regular SIM cards both have the same purpose – connecting your device to a mobile network
- eSIM stores all data in encrypted format and provides greater security than standard SIM cards
An eSIM, or Embedded Subscriber Identity Module, is integrated directly into a device’s hardware. Unlike traditional SIM cards, (physical SIM cards) that are inserted into SIM slot on your phone or tablet, eSIMs are built into the device’s hardware. This eliminates the need of physical insertion or removal of SIM cards. This article explores what an eSIM is, how it works, and the key differences between eSIMs and traditional SIM cards.
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What is an eSIM?
An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital SIM card that is embedded directly into a device. Like a standard SIM card, eSIM also server the same purpose, stores information about a device and network plan, and allows users to connect to carrier networks. It only eliminates the need for physical insertion or removal of SIM cards.
Because the data on an eSIM is encrypted, it provides greater security than standard SIM cards.
Most modern smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches support eSIM technology. This includes:
- Recent iPhone models
- Google Pixel devices
- Samsung Galaxy phones
- Apple Watch
How Does an eSIM Work?
eSIM technology relies on a small chip embedded in the device. This chip can store multiple profiles from different carriers, allow you to switch between them without physically change the SIM card. Here’s how eSIM works:
eSIM Activation:
- When you purchase a device with an eSIM, you can activate it by scanning a QR code provided by your carrier, or by downloading the carrier’s app. This process installs the carrier profile on your eSIM chip.
eSIM Profile Management
- The eSIM can store multiple profiles, which means you can have different profiles for different carriers or plans. You can switch between these profiles via your device’s settings.
Remote Provisioning
- Carriers can remotely provision and manage eSIM profiles. This allows for seamless switching between carriers without a new physical SIM card.
Security on eSIM
- eSIMs offer enhanced security as they are built into the device, making them harder to lose or damage. They also support strong encryption standards to protect your data
Advantages of eSIM Technology
eSIMs eliminate the need for physical SIM cards, making it easier to switch carriers or plans. This is especially useful for frequent travelers who need to switch between local carriers in different countries.
For device manufacturers including eSIM technology save valuable space that allow for larger batteries or other hardware improvements.
With the ability to store multiple profiles, eSIMs provide greater flexibility in managing mobile plans. You can have a personal and work profile on the same device, or switch between data plans for different usage scenarios.
eSIMs allow users to keep their primary number for important calls while using local plans for data.
eSIM vs. Regular SIM Card: Key Differences
While both eSIMs and regular SIM cards serve the same purpose (connecting your device to a mobile network) there are several key differences between tow, especially on security.
Form Factor
- Regular SIM Card: Physical card that needs to be inserted into a slot in your device. Available in different sizes: standard, micro, and nano.
- eSIM: Integrated into the device’s hardware. No physical card is required.
Activation
- Regular SIM Card: Typically involves inserting the card and following the carrier’s activation process.
- eSIM: Can be activated by scanning a QR code or downloading an app, simplifying the activation process.
Flexibility
- Regular SIM Card: Switching carriers requires removing the old SIM card and inserting a new one.
- eSIM: Allows for remote provisioning and the ability to store multiple profiles, making it easier to switch carriers and plans without changing physical cards.
Security
- Regular SIM Card: Physical cards can be lost, stolen, or damaged.
- eSIM: Built into the device, offering enhanced security and reduced risk of loss or damage.
While physical SIM cards are still widely used due to their compatibility, eSIM technology represents a more flexible and secure option, especially for travellers and tech-savvy users.
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