Launched in 2016, eSIM has established itself as a revolution in mobile telephony, a technology that has transformed how we connect on smartphones and connected devices. But how does eSIM work? How will this digital revolution replace the iconic SIM card? What are the concrete benefits for users? And why does eSIM simplify the management of our mobile subscriptions and make them more flexible?
What is an eSIM?
Unlike traditional SIM cards that are inserted into phones, eSIMs (embedded SIMs) are intangible and are integrated directly into the internal circuitry of smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches. After a few simple steps to program it, users can easily connect to their operator’s mobile network without having to handle a physical SIM card. Everything is done via a remote profile download, and that makes all the difference.
How does an eSIM work?
An eSIM works like a SIM card, except that it is entirely virtual. Subscription and activation are done remotely via a QR code or a link. After activating the eSIM, your smartphone benefits from a new plan while still having the option of having other customer profiles with other operators on the same device. The eSIM allows you to make calls, send messages, and access the internet with more flexible management. A few clicks and your eSIM is up and running!
The advantages of eSIM
Adopting eSIM means choosing a technology that simplifies the management of your mobile subscriptions while offering greater flexibility. Here are the main advantages:
- No more physical handling: eSIMs do not require any physical handling and can be installed digitally in record time.
- Enhanced security: unlike physical SIM cards, which can be stolen or lost, eSIMs are digitally integrated into your device, ensuring enhanced data security. If your device is lost or stolen, simply deactivate your profile remotely to block any fraudulent access to your line.
- More economical: eSIM eliminates the cost of purchasing and delivering a physical card, and there are no more shipping costs when changing operators. Customers have a wide choice of plans to suit their telecommunications needs. When abroad, eSIMs reveal their full economic potential with the option of subscribing to a local plan, which reduces often excessive roaming charges, particularly for internet access. A word of advice: prepare for your trip by comparing compatible eSIM operators available abroad and activate it when you arrive.
- More environmentally friendly: its intangible form eliminates the need to produce a SIM card, its packaging, and its delivery by post, which is a good way to reduce your carbon footprint.
- Flexibility thanks to multiple profiles: with eSIM, you can store multiple operator profiles on the same device and easily switch between different plans: personal, professional, local, international, or other. It’s the ideal solution for users looking for more flexibility and a must-have for travelers.
The disadvantages of eSIM
Although it is a revolutionary technology, eSIM still has some drawbacks, mainly due to the fact that it is not yet widely known to the general public. Here are its main disadvantages:
- Limited compatibility: not all connected devices are yet compatible with eSIM. This is mainly the case for older mobile phones whose operating system is not compatible with this new technology.
- Number of profiles: this depends entirely on your mobile model.
- Technology dependency: if the device is damaged, it is not possible to simply remove the SIM card and put it in another device. The eSIM profile will need to be transferred to another device, a process that requires reactivation with the operator.
How do you set up an eSIM on your device?
Activating an eSIM is child’s play. Here are the steps involved in the process to understand how it works and how it can fit into your daily life:
1. Choose an eSIM operator
The first step is to choose the right eSIM operator to find the one that best suits your needs: 4G, 5G, and internet coverage, rates, desired duration, roaming options, countries, and other specific features.
2. Activation with a QR code or an app
After subscribing to a plan with an eSIM-compatible operator, you will receive a QR code or link to scan from your device. This code contains all the information you need to activate your line directly on the device.
3. Download the operator profile
Once you have scanned the QR code or opened the link, your mobile will automatically download your operator’s profile. This process includes all the information you need to connect to the network, such as your phone number, plan details, and various connection settings.
In just a few clicks, your eSIM is up and running! Your line is finally ready to use without having to insert a SIM card into your smartphone.
4. Change operators with ease
One of the great strengths of eSIM is the ability to switch operators in a snap. With eSIM, you canhave multiple profiles on a single device. For example, you can have one profile for your main operator and another for a data plan when traveling abroad.
You can switch profiles directly from your phone’s settings. This saves a huge amount of time for travelers or professionals who need to juggle multiple phone lines.
The future of eSIM in telecommunications
Although eSIM is still relatively unknown to the general public, it has long won the hearts of tech enthusiasts, professionals, and frequent travelers, and continues to grow in popularity among manufacturers such as Google, Samsung, and Apple, as well as operators.
Little by little, eSIM is making its mark and will likely replace the SIM card. This digital revolution could well become the future of mobile connectivity in all connected devices, everywhere in the world.
Why adopt eSIM now?
Choosing eSIM means opting for a rapidly growing technological solution. Its many advantages offer great flexibility and a whole new mobile network user experience, especially for travelers who can significantly reduce their roaming bills abroad. Its enhanced security limits the risk of theft or even tampering, as the eSIM is integrated into the device and not physically accessible.
By adopting eSIM, you are taking a big step towardsthe future of telecommunications and can already enjoy all its benefits in managing your subscriptions.
Now that you know how it works, all you have to do is choose the ideal operator on our eSIM comparison tool and enjoy the best connection with eSIM.