Tech

How Does an eSIM Work?

Written by Darius Rubics

While technology development has continued to set a different path for mobile networks, much change has been thrown into our day-to-day communication. One of the most critical innovative transformations these days is the introduction of eSIM. Unlike the conventional SIM card, which can easily be detached, eSIM is embedded into the device. While that is easy for the user on one side, on the other side, it opens up so many functionalities and advantages to fit our ever-growing digital lifestyle.

In this modern age, where convenience and connectivity have become fundamentally enabling, eSIM technology holds that uniqueness whereby mobile plans can be turned on so seamlessly without the need for physical SIM cards. It’s an important development as the use of smartphones and tablets increases, along with other IoT devices. The more things we connect with, the more it is important to manage our mobile connectivity. From the ease of switching carriers to sophisticated security, eSIM keeps you at the edge in this fast-changing digital space. With rising adoption in modern devices, one thing is pretty certain: eSIM is here to change the way you think about mobile connectivity.

What is an eSIM?

eSIM stands for embedded subscriber identity module. In other words, the eSIM is a kind of digital SIM embedded in most recent phone models. Basically, it works the same way as a physical SIM card, but you do not have to insert anything in your device. Instead of inserting a chip physically into your phone, the eSIM does it through software – all you have to do is activate it, and it will start working. eSIMs come with a host of other advantages, including not being charged for roaming and ease of switching providers. On top of that, you enjoy getting mobile data while travelling.

Also, with an eSIM, you can use several carriers and phone numbers simultaneously. You can find eSIMs not only in smartphones but also in tablets, smartwatches, and even cars. eSIMs can be reprogrammed; once programmed, carriers are able to update your eSIM over the air, introducing more flexibility in mobile connectivity.

How Does an eSIM Work?

An eSIM works a little differently from the traditional SIM card way. Instead of the detachable chip as contained in traditional SIM cards, an eSIM is chip-embedded inside your device. To be more specific, the chip embedded in your phone already has all the necessary hardware for maintaining the cell service and mobile data connections. Moreover, it also requires software downloads to the installed microchip inside your mobile device. That means the eSIM, once activated, should work like any other physical SIM in performing all its functions related to providing internet connectivity, making calls, and sending SMS.

You can get an eSIM profile from your carrier quite easily. In fact, the process allows you to keep several carrier profiles on a single device and to switch between different mobile plans with ease without actually changing any SIM cards. You can take the following steps to activate the eSIM:

  • Obtain an eSIM profile
  • Scan the QR code
  • Complete the setup

Why Should You Use eSIM?

The primary advantage of utilizing an eSIM lies in the way it effortlessly simplifies your life, particularly when you’re on the move. The setup process is swift, the usage is straightforward, and there’s no need to grapple with plastic cards or extra gadgets. 

  • Instant activation

eSIM technology provides a way to offer instantaneous delivery and activation, hence making it easier to connect to mobile networks. Whereas traditional SIMs require handling and shipping, an eSIM profile arrives digitally. Many times, you will get an eSIM activation code either via email or inside a mobile app, from which you can turn on the actual service in almost no time. This fast and efficient process eliminates the need to wait on any physical SIM card, and you can literally start using your mobile plans within minutes of making a purchase.

  • Keeping your primary number

The great thing about eSIM, in regard to travel, is that it lets you keep your main active phone number. With eSIM technology, you’re allowed to add a secondary profile for local data or calling plans without removing your main SIM card. This way, you can receive calls and texts on your main number while accessing the internet and/or local services with your eSIM. These dual-SIM capabilities let you be connected to your social network while using more affordable local data rates.

  • Multi-country coverage

eSIM has made life so much easier for many travellers who otherwise had to buy and insert new SIM cards every time they entered another country. Right after arrival in the country, you can activate a local plan with hardly any fuss and thus avoid exorbitant roaming charges. The ease of use allows you to avoid high roaming charges and ensure seamless communication right through your travel. This also allows you to toggle between different carrier profiles with ease from your devices for the best option that suits your needs. This is why eSIM is considered a perfect solution for those looking to stay connected while exploring new destinations.

  • Enhanced security features

eSIMs are highly secure compared to regular SIM cards. Since they are integrated into the device, the possibilities of being misplaced, stolen, or damaged are minimal. Hence, it would be difficult for unauthorized people to access your mobile network. Moreover, eSIMs provide great safety for personal and financial information due to their strong encryption technique for maintaining connections to mobile networks.

  • Cost-effectiveness

eSIM technology provides significant cost benefits by giving you greater flexibility in choosing various mobile plans. It enables different carrier profiles to be stored on a single device, hence making it easy for you to switch over to local carriers while travelling, thereby avoiding exorbitant roaming charges that always come with international usage. This also allows you to choose plans that are cheaper, depending on your destination, and only pay for what you will consume. In addition, eSIMs make it easy for you to effectively compare a number of carrier plans and help you find a much cheaper plan.

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About the author

Darius Rubics