An eSIM is a "software-based" version of the tiny physical chip in mobile devices that identifies them on carrier networks. eSIMs allow mobile users to digitally activate wireless plans. The key benefit for international travelers is that they're able to access multiple data networks on one device, making data roaming easier and potentially much less expensive.
The "e" stands for "embedded" not electronic.
Digital SIMs or eSIMs work by tapping into a mobile network whenever your device is in range. This allows you to switch carriers without ever having to take your device into a store, and it also means that you don’t have to worry about needing a new SIM card every time you want to get a new device. It’s important to note that eSIMs aren’t currently enabled on all devices, but most devices from 2018 onward should have them.
The biggest difference between eSIMs and regular SIM cards is simply the ability to do things wirelessly. While conventional SIM cards have a physical slot that allows you to add or remove a SIM freely, eSIMs are digitally activated using QR codes or activation codes. Once you’re able to make the switch, you can use the same wireless plan on any device that connects to your network.
eSIM helps travelers save big on mobile data roaming when they are abroad.
Here’s how eSIMs can help you:
The eSIM is a lot easier to use than traditional SIM cards. Here are some specific benefits:
Being able to access multiple networks without having to swap SIMs means that you’re going to have more flexibility from a service perspective.
For example, you could subscribe to a data-only SIM from one network for business and access another network for a personal phone plan for calling and texting.
eSIMs are also really convenient to save on data roaming and stay connected while traveling. You don’t have to worry about the hassle of getting a local SIM card and swapping it with your home SIM card.
You can easily just activate an eSIM in many countries as second plan, without even having to worry about the hassle of a paper contract.
With a traditional SIM, you can have two carriers, but the second SIM will always have to have a data plan.
With eSIMs, you can only have one primary SIM card for your primary number, and many secondary eSIM plans.
eSIMs represent a major shift in the way that we utilize our mobile devices. Whether during travel or locally, eSIM empowers mobile users to easily have multiple plans that work simultaneously on the same device. This will help businesses become more streamlined and allow individuals to be more flexible.
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