Google to Introduce Built-in eSIM Conversion Tool for Pixel Smartphones
The era of physical SIM cards is drawing to a close, with embedded SIM (eSIM) technology poised to take center stage. This transition is being spearheaded by Apple, which has eliminated the SIM card slot on its iPhone 15 series for US models. In a bid to accelerate the adoption of eSIM, Google is developing a built-in eSIM conversion tool for Pixel smartphones. This tool will enable users to seamlessly switch from their traditional SIM cards to digital eSIM, offering a host of benefits such as enhanced security, reduced device size, and simplified carrier changes. Pixel smartphones esim
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The tool is currently under development and is not yet available to the public. However, there are some early indications of how it will work.
According to 9to5Google, the eSIM conversion tool will allow users to convert their physical SIM card to an eSIM. This will be a convenient option for users who want to switch to an eSIM but don’t want to lose their existing phone number or data.
To get closer to that future, many carriers have launched ways to convert your existing SIM card to a digital eSIM saved to your phone. However, this process will look quite different depending on what carrier you use, and in some cases, unexpected issues can lead to temporarily losing your cellular service.
Within the Android 14 QPR2 Beta 3 update, the 9to5Google team has found new signs of Google preparing a dedicated eSIM conversion tool for its Pixel phones. In an included update to its SIM Manager app, there are numerous new references to the success or failure of converting to an eSIM.
(Note: In the texts below, 9to5Google has included “T-Mobile” as an example carrier. (The app’s code does not specify support for any particular carrier, and you will see your current carrier instead.)
SIM converted
Can’t convert SIM
Your T-Mobile SIM card can’t be converted to an eSIM. You can contact T-Mobile for help.
Something went wrong with converting your eSIM. To fix the problem, contact T-Mobile
From what is known for now, Google’s primary intention is to make it easier to convert from a physical SIM card to an eSIM when setting up a new phone. To that end, the only other mentions of conversion within this app are related to the recently launched ability to transfer an eSIM from one Pixel phone to another.
You can convert your SIM card into an eSIM and transfer it to this phone. After it’s been converted, your SIM card can’t be used again.
That said, with the Android 14 QPR2 Beta 3 update installed on one of our devices, a new “Convert to eSIM” option appears in the Settings app under Network & internet > SIMs > (your carrier). For now, nothing happens when you tap this option.
Here are some of the potential benefits of the eSIM conversion tool: Pixel smartphones esim
- Convenience: Users will no longer need to carry around a physical SIM card.
- Security: eSIMs are more secure than physical SIM cards because they are embedded in the phone’s hardware.
- Flexibility: Users will be able to switch between carriers more easily.
Overall, the eSIM conversion tool is a welcome addition to Pixel smartphones. It will make it easier for users to switch to eSIMs and enjoy the benefits they offer.
Here are some indicative prepaid eSIM card prices for Europe from a few of the best eSIM companies:
