We’re all familiar with SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) cards, the little plastic chip you pop into your phone to give it an identity. However, some mobile network providers are sidelining physical SIMs and opting for their digital successors, eSIM cards. If you’re wondering, “What is an eSIM card and what does it do?” you’ve come to the right place.
Without further ado, let’s explore what an eSIM is, how it works, how it differs from a physical SIM, and what benefits and disadvantages it provides.
What Is an eSIM?
An eSIM behaves similarly to a physical SIM, but it is digital and built directly into your mobile device. It’s activated and managed online, giving users more flexibility when it comes to switching carriers, and adding data plans or phone numbers.
While some eSIM plans are purely local, others are designed for international travel. Moreover, some are data-only, whereas others include data, voice and text.
What Is the Difference Between an eSIM and a Physical SIM Card?
The main difference between an eSIM (embedded SIM) and a physical SIM is that physical SIM cards must be inserted into the device, while eSIM hardware is soldered into it at the time of manufacture.
A physical SIM is connected to one carrier plan, whereas an eSIM-compatible phone can contain multiple eSIM plans. Furthermore, you can usually purchase, activate and manage an eSIM plan online instead of buying a SIM card in a shop.
How Do eSIMs Work?
Like a traditional SIM, an eSIM acts as an identifier that sets you up to use mobile data, or make and receive phone calls and texts. The functionality depends on the type of eSIM — such as data-only ones or those that include data, voice and text — but eSIM-compatible devices allow you to store multiple plans and switch between them as you like.
This is different from a physical SIM, which must be replaced if you want to switch carriers. In addition, many devices allow both a physical SIM and an eSIM to be active simultaneously — for example, on phones with dual SIM technology.
What Is an eSIM Used For?
eSIMs are used for convenience because, unlike a traditional SIM card, they don’t restrict you to one carrier or data plan. This removes the hassle of having to replace your SIM every time you want to switch between profiles, especially when you travel. However, there are other benefits.
eSIM Benefits
- Convenience
- Good for travel
- Can sometimes connect to your work line and personal line on one device
- More eco-friendly
- Cheaper roaming fees
- More secure than physical SIMs because they can’t be removed (excluding eSIM adapter cards)
eSIM Disadvantages
Many providers are still honing their eSIM technology, so there are a few shortcomings:
- Some devices (especially older ones) and networks are not eSIM-compatible
- You must go through the deactivation and reactivation process each time you use it on another device
Which Phones Support eSIMs?
Most recently manufactured Android and iPhone models contain eSIMs. However, bear in mind that the number of eSIM plans you can add or keep active at one time varies by device.
Some devices have dual SIM technology, meaning they can contain both a physical SIM and an eSIM. Examples of modern phones with eSIMs are listed below:
- iPhone: iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, iPhone 11 & above, iPhone SE 2 & 3
- Samsung: Samsung Galaxy S20 & above, various models of Samsung Galaxy Note, Z and A
- Google Pixel: Google Pixel 2 & above
- And many more
Some models manufactured in certain locations, including China, Hong Kong, Australia, Japan and South Korea, are not eSIM-compatible.
How to Set Up and Activate an eSIM: iPhone & Android
The eSIM activation steps vary by provider. Many providers give you a QR code to scan after signup, but some may support in-app activation or simply offer an activation code. If your carrier has given you a QR code, follow the steps below. For other methods, check the activation instructions on your eSIM provider’s website.
iPhone QR Code Activation
- Go to “settings,” then select “cellular.”
- Scroll down to “add eSIM,” click “use QR code” and scan the code. Follow the prompts.
- Alternatively, you can click “enter details manually” if you have an activation code or if your carrier instructs you to do so.
You can activate your eSIM on iPhone by going to the “cellular” settings.
Android QR Code Activation
- Go to “settings,” then tap “connections” and select “SIM manager.”
- Choose “add eSIM” and select “scan QR code.”
- Follow the prompts.
You can add your eSIM on Android in the SIM manager.
How to Get an eSIM
You can get an eSIM by asking your mobile carrier to transfer you from a physical SIM to an eSIM — you may be able to do this online.
Alternatively, if your carrier supports it, you can convert your physical SIM to an eSIM in the “cellular” settings on your phone. Another option is to add a prepaid eSIM plan geared toward international travelers, like Saily or Airalo, via the carrier’s dedicated app.
U.S. eSIM Providers
A variety of U.S. mobile carriers support eSIM-compatible devices and typically let you activate the eSIM via dedicated apps. Some, like Verizon, have prepaid plans designed for travelers to the U.S., with features like a U.S. phone number, a period of data, text and calling, and 5G access where coverage allows.
Here are some options for eSIM providers in the U.S.:
- Verizon
- T-Mobile
- Mint Mobile
- Google Fi
- AT&T
Final Thoughts
While the prospect of new technology can be daunting for some, an eSIM plan could be a game changer for those who want more flexibility, especially globetrotters.
On the subject of international travel, we recommend doubling up on your online privacy and security by downloading one of the best VPN services, like NordVPN. Incidentally, Nord Security owns Saily, a popular international eSIM provider.
Are you thinking of switching to an eSIM? If you’ve already made the switch, what has your experience been like? Please share your thoughts in the comments. Thanks for reading.
FAQ: Digital SIM Card
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An eSIM is the digital version of the physical SIM card. It comes embedded in most modern phones, and allows you to add and manage more than one cellular plan.
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Some carriers and devices — particularly older phone models — don’t support eSIMs. In addition, you have to repeat the activation process whenever you want to change phones.
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People use eSIMs for flexibility as they allow you to add multiple carrier plans and switch them up with no hassle.
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It depends. Not all eSIM plans come with a phone number, but there are exceptions, like Airalo’s Discover + Global eSIM. Whatever the case, the main phone number that your usual carrier provides doesn’t change.
