Can eSIMs be shared with multiple devices?

eSIM emerged in the telecommunication industry as a revolution for traveling that offers flexibility and convenience. Like the physical SIM card, eSIM users have questions about sharing embedded SIM with other devices. eSIM links to one device at a time, so you can’t share it. The ideal solution is to purchase the new eSIM for each device to maintain connectivity while traveling. 

This blog is about eSIM sharing, explains why eSIM sharing is not possible, and what potential solutions address this concern. 

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What is eSIM?

eSIM is a small chip, integrated into the device hardware by manufacturers. An embedded SIM is a digital SIM but works like a physical SIM card. eSIM is the travel SIM that provides the user with seamless connectivity. You can switch through different networks without physical swapping in case of connectivity issues. eSIM digitally stores the user information and is considered more secure than the physical SIM card. You can install and download the eSIM profile which contains all the information that mobile networks provide for authentication. eSIM is the chip that cannot be removed from the device but you can install and delete the eSIM profile from your device.  

Can eSIM be shared?

Like the physical SIM card, eSIM can’t be shared. A physical SIM is a plastic card, you can insert from one device to another. An eSIM is a digital SIM attached to the device's hardware. You can’t remove or detach eSIM to insert it into other devices. 

eSIM installed on a single device

If you have installed an eSIM profile on your device, you won’t be able to install it on other devices. Embedded SIM is like a licensed software with one seat, once you activate eSIM, it is tied to you and no one else can use it. eSIMs are designed to perform the function for a single device. eSIM contains unique information about the device and security measures.  Embedded SIM sharing causes security and authentication issues. 

eSIM sharing sometimes depends on mobile carrier policies. Some carriers allow sharing, but it has been deactivated from the current device before activating the new device. However, it’s essential to confirm, if the other devices supports eSIM functionality.

What is the solution if eSIM can’t be shared?

It is not possible to share your eSIM with someone else. The alternative is to get the eSIM and install it on another device. 

Embedded SIM installation is done through QR code, manual, and remote provisioning. If you are installing eSIM through a QR code or manual method, share the eSIM with someone by scanning the QR or manually entering the information. 

Share the Data Allowance Through Hotspot

You would not be able to share the eSIM, but it is possible to share the eSIM data allowance. During your travel, turn on the hotspot function in your device, and your device turns into a hotspot. Hotspot allows your device to share the eSIM data with the other devices. If your eSIM does not support hotspots or tethering, contact your carrier for an alternative.  

FAQs

Can you share an eSIM with someone?

No, eSIM can not be shared with someone, eSIM is a small embedded chip, designed for single-device use. It is tied to the device and cannot be removed. Once the eSIM is installed, you can’t reinstall it on multiple devices.

Can I share my eSIM data with another phone?

You can share your data with the other phone through hotspot or tethering. Simply, turn on your device hotspot to connect to the others. The other devices will use your eSIM data plan through a hotspot.

How do I share an eSIM?

You can share the eSIM through a hotspot or tethering, turn on the mobile hotspot from your device and it will connect to other devices. The other option to share eSIM is purchasing the additional eSIM for the other device.