Orange Luxembourg announces the launch of a new automatic eSIM transfer feature between iPhone smartphones, a first in Luxembourg. This innovation is the result of a project carried out in close collaboration with Apple’s teams. Currently, 8 out of 10 smartphones sold by Orange Luxembourg are eSIM-compatible, and one in four users relies on this technology for mobile connectivity. This innovation significantly streamlines the user experience and sets a new standard for smartphone usage.

To make calls using a mobile phone, it is necessary to have a SIM card provided by an operator. For a long time, this took the form of a small chip card that was inserted into the device. In recent years, this card has become virtual in the form of an eSIM. By scanning a QR code, users can easily activate one or more electronic SIM cards integrated into their phones.

Enhancing the eSIM experience

“eSIM has addressed user needs, particularly in Luxembourg, by offering the ability to integrate two accounts into one phone. You can have a professional number and a private one, or even combine a Luxembourg subscription with a Belgian, French, or German one, depending on your needs,” explains Mustapha Rahem, Head of B2C Sales at Orange Luxembourg. “However, user experience with eSIM was not optimal, particularly when switching devices.”

Indeed, transferring an eSIM from one smartphone to another required returning to the mobile operator to obtain a new QR code to configure the device.

Automatic eSIM transfer during iPhone setup

For Orange Luxembourg teams, it was essential to streamline this experience. With this in mind, the company worked closely with Apple to offer its customers a new feature.

“We are very proud to be the first in Luxembourg to facilitate the transfer of an eSIM from one phone to another without needing a new QR code,” adds Christophe Van Yck, Head of Network & Strategic Projects at Orange Luxembourg. “For the user, everything happens during the setup of the new device. Just as contacts or photos are transferred from one phone to another, the eSIM is directly configured on the new device in a completely secure way.”

After detecting the presence of an eSIM on the previous phone, the setup system automatically queries Orange Luxembourg’s servers to activate the card on the new iPhone.

An innovation with multiple benefits

The activation experience is thus significantly improved. For example, users who receive an iPhone under the Christmas tree on December 25 will no longer have to wait for Orange shops or the call center to reopen to activate their eSIM on their new device.

“This feature also enables users to convert a physical SIM card into an eSIM entirely independently,” explains Christophe Van Yck. “Additionally, it allows an eSIM to be linked to a phone using its serial number. A phone number can now be assigned to a device, even if it is still in its sealed box.”

The eSIM: increasingly popular

With this innovation, Orange Luxembourg is helping improve user experience. Today, 8 out of 10 smartphones sold are eSIM-compatible, and one in four users now prefers the digital version of the SIM card.

“This technology will become increasingly common. In the United States, the latest iPhone model works exclusively with eSIM. It’s likely that this will also be the case in Europe in the coming years,” continues Mustapha Rahem. “We wanted to support this transformation by allowing our users to benefit from the advantages of eSIM with the smoothest experience possible.”

In a few years, today’s users may look back with amusement at the small cards they once had to insert into their phones.

Reducing the environmental footprint

“In addition to offering an improved experience, eSIM usage helps reduce the environmental impact of mobile telephony,” explains Barbara Fangille, Head of Brand, Communication, and ESG at Orange Luxembourg. “With this digital card, we reduce the production of plastic and electronic chips. This new feature also reduces the logistical and commercial footprint. Users no longer need to visit a shop to obtain a QR code. Through this initiative, we help reduce CO2 emissions.”