Have you heard about eSIM? It’s a digital type of phone number, similar to the more traditional SIM card. But there’s a difference. The prefix “E” in the name stands for “Embedded”. We reached out to experts in mobile technology from ESIM-Man, a company offering digital SIM cards for more than 172 different countries and regions, to get more detailed information.
So here’s what we found out: this type of SIM card looks like a small chip that manufacturers install in smartphones during the production stage. Therefore, you won’t be able to remove it from the device or purchase it separately from a mobile operator. To start using it, all you need to do is add the necessary data through an app or your device’s settings. This is much more convenient than traditional plastic SIM cards; let’s find out why.
How to Activate My eSIM?
Just like a regular physical SIM card, you need to obtain the digital version from one of the providers. However, instead of the usual process of purchasing a plastic card and installing a small chip in your smartphone, you just need to receive a small document with activation details online.
This document will contain a QR code that you’ll need to scan using your smartphone’s camera. Then, you’ll need to enter a six-digit password, and the eSIM will start working. You can’t break or lose it since it’s embedded directly in the phone. It works on the same principle as a regular SIM card, only it takes up less space and offers the user more options. But we’ll tell you more about that later.
Which Apple Devices Support eSIM?
Before connecting, you need to check if your iPhone supports eSIM. Apple has been promoting embedded cellular chips for several years now. Therefore, all current iPhone and iPad models support this technology.
List of devices that support eSIM:
- iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max, SE (2020)
- iPhone XS, XS Max, XR running on iOS 12.1 and newer versions of the OS
- iPad 2019, iPad Pro 11 and 12.9, iPad Air 2019, Air 2020, iPad Mini 5 with iOS 12.1 and newer firmware versions.
To activate the embedded card on Apple devices, you need to go to the “Settings” app, then Cellular – Cellular Plans – Add Cellular Plan.
Advantages of eSIM Cards in 2024
The most useful feature of a digital SIM card is the ability to connect up to 5 numbers simultaneously. In the settings, you can choose which one will be active at the moment. Moreover, you can connect up to 5 different operators simultaneously. This is especially convenient for users who travel frequently or work abroad. You no longer have to change SIM cards from different countries and operators at the airport; you can do it online in minutes.
Additionally, the embedded SIM saves space in the smartphone’s body. In the future, this will help developers make gadgets even thinner and more compact. They will also be able to install larger batteries or increase the device’s memory capacity. Another important advantage is that thanks to this technology, multiple devices can be connected
to one number. For example, a smartphone, tablet, smartwatch, and other gadgets will use the same phone number. Therefore, you only need to pay for one tariff plan.
Disadvantages of eSIM Cards
Inconveniences from such a SIM card arise only for operators and authorities of those countries where you can only get the card with a passport. In some countries, anyone can buy a SIM card without presenting a passport. Therefore, everything develops quite rapidly, and there are no control issues.
As for the operators, they have to completely revise their sales and support system. Users no longer need to visit telecom stores to change a damaged SIM card or buy a new one. Now, it’s enough to press a few buttons on the smartphone, and everything is ready. Only users and gadget manufacturers benefit from the implementation of eSIM. Such a card has long been used in the United States and China. It’s a convenient technology that simplifies many tasks. To change the operator or add a new number, you just need to tap the screen a few times. Therefore, soon we will all switch to embedded SIM cards. It’s just a matter of time.
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