Things You Should Know About eSIM
An eSIM is a SIM card integrated into a mobile device that can connect to any eSIM-enabled operator. It also works in the same way as a traditional SIM card, but there is no physical card to hold it. It comes pre-installed and can be activated by adding an “eSIM profile” for a new operator using QR codes. How eSIM Works
It is, without a doubt, an improvement over the traditional SIM card. An eSIM card is becoming more common in smartphones, tablets, and laptop computers. Here are some frequently asked questions and the other things you should know about an eSIM.
What Are the eSIM Benefits? How eSIM Works
The eSIM card has several benefits, including:
- It works digitally without any SIM cards
- You can easily switch between operators in a couple of clicks
- It’s easier to use since it doesn’t require any physical activity
- More providers support it
- There are no added costs
- It saves you time and money (e.g., on data roaming)
- It allows mobile users to have multiple plans on the same device
- It makes mobile devices smaller as it doesn’t require a SIM card slot
- It cannot be swapped like SIM cards and thus cannot be cloned or stolen
- You can easily purchase it online
What are the eSIM limitations? How eSIM Works
Although the eSIM has several benefits, it also comes with certain limitations and drawbacks, including:
- It’s still not compatible with all devices
- It is not yet entirely accessible or available to everyone
- It is not yet supported by many operators
How secure is an eSIM?
The security of an eSIM is one of its significant advantages over traditional SIM cards. eSIMs come embedded with robust security features that are designed to safeguard your data and personal information. They are equipped with advanced encryption standards and authentication protocols that ensure the secure transmission of data between your device and the network. This level of encryption makes it extremely difficult for hackers or any unauthorized entities to intercept or decode your data.
In addition to this, the physical nature of traditional SIM cards presents a vulnerability that eSIMs do not have. Traditional SIM cards can be removed, stolen, or tampered with, providing an avenue for data theft or unauthorized usage. However, with eSIMs, this risk is significantly reduced. As the eSIM is integrated into the device itself, it cannot be physically removed or swapped without having direct access to the device’s internal components, which is a task far beyond the reach of most potential threats.
Moreover, in the unlikely event that your device is lost or stolen, you can quickly contact your service provider to deactivate your eSIM remotely, adding another layer of security. Once deactivated, the eSIM cannot be used, further protecting you from potential data misuse or unauthorized charges.
How Does an eSIM Work?
An eSIM chip comes pre-installed in your device, but it doesn’t have eSIM profiles or plans. You have to activate an eSIM profile to use the service. There are two ways to do this:
1. Through eSIM QR codes
This method can activate your eSIM profile through an app or website. The first step will require you to create an account on a website or an app. After creating an account and purchasing an eSIM plan, you’ll receive an eSIM QR code. Now:
- In iOS: you just need to open the camera app, scan the QR code and follow the final steps
- In Android: you need to go to the device settings, then Network & internet, and finally scan the provided eSIM QR code
2. Through eSIM activation codes
This method involved using a manual activation code. Together with the eSIM QR code, your service provider may provide an activation code. You just need to go to your phone settings, and under cellular or mobile plans, you may activate the new eSIM by pasting or typing in the provided activation code. Typically, the manual activation code has an SM-DP+ Address (e.g., rsp.xxxxxxx.net) and Activation Code (e.g., AAAAA-BBBBB-CCCCC).
Can I Transfer My eSIM to a New Device?
Absolutely, transferring your eSIM to a new device is not only possible but also a relatively straightforward process. However, the exact steps and requirements can vary depending on your service provider and the device you’re using.
When you purchase a new eSIM-compatible device and wish to continue using your existing eSIM profile, you’ll need to initiate a transfer process. This process typically involves deactivating the eSIM profile on your current device and then reactivating it on the new one.
In most cases, this will require a new QR code or an activation code, which can usually be obtained from your service provider. This code is unique and ensures that the eSIM profile is securely transferred to the correct device. The process of scanning a QR code or entering an activation code is designed to be user-friendly and can usually be completed within the settings of your device.
It’s important to note that during this process, your eSIM profile will remain intact. This means that all your existing plans, subscriptions, or services linked to that eSIM will be transferred along with it. Therefore, you won’t have to worry about losing any services or going through the hassle of setting up new plans.
What Devices Support an eSIM?
eSIM is supported in mobile devices such as smartphones, fitness trackers, tablets, and laptops. We provide a basic list here. How eSIM Works
Conclusion
With the new norm of “remote everything”, eSIM is a step in the right direction. It comes with many benefits, starting with its convenience and ending with compatibility with more devices.
However, consumers are not yet aware of the benefits of eSIM. Many still do not know that their mobile device already has an eSIM feature and they can benefit from it starting today. We hope this will gradually change with time as more content is created about eSIM.
