What is an eSIM? How does eSIM work? eSIM vs Physical SIM

An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a modern form of SIM card that is built directly into a device. Unlike traditional SIM cards made from PVC. An eSIM Card is a small integrated circuit that stores all necessary subscriber information and can be re-programmed by the user. This technology evolved from the standard SIM card to include an eUICC chip, which allows for the profiles of different operators to be downloaded and switched through software installed on the device. In this article, I’ll discuss what esim is, and how they work. Also describe how eSIM differs from physical SIM Cards, their advantages, disadvantages, and more.

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What is eSIM Technology?

At its core, an eSIM is a small chip integrated into mobile devices, smartwatches, and various IoT devices. It serves the same purpose as a traditional SIM card, which stores the International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) and key user information. eSIM technology represents a significant advancement in the telecommunications sector, marking a shift from physical SIM cards to digital SIM embedded directly into devices. 

How does an eSIM work?

An eSIM is embedded as a virtual chip within a device, allowing it to store multiple carrier profiles managed through software. Users can switch between these profiles directly from their device settings, eliminating the need for physical SIM cards. This embedded Universal Integrated Circuit Card (eUICC) enables seamless carrier changes and simplifies mobile connectivity

eSIM vs Physical SIM

The comparison between eSIM and physical SIM cards reveals distinct advantages and disadvantages for each technology:

eSIM:

• Advantages: Easier network switching if compatible with the carrier's app.
• Disadvantages: Limited network support for eSIM.

Physical SIM:

• Advantages: Quick and easy swapping between devices.
• Disadvantages: Prone to physical damage or loss.

Both eSIM and physical SIM cards have their unique benefits and drawbacks. My personal favourite is eSIM for its convenience, affordability, and Global Coverage. 

eSIM Parts and their functions

eSIM (embedded-SIM) technology represents a pivotal shift in mobile telecommunications, offering a more flexible and streamlined approach to network service connectivity an eSIM is an integrated circuit embedded directly into the device, eliminating the need for physical swapping of SIM cards

eUICC Chip

eSIM technology lies in the eUICC chip (Embedded Universal Integrated Circuit Card), which allows users to switch carriers or mobile telephone services without the need to replace the SIM card physically 

This chip stores all necessary subscriber information, including ICCID Number (Integrated Circuit Card Identifier) and IMSI Number(International Mobile Subscriber Identity), which are critical for network identification and security. 

SM-DP+ History

To facilitate the remote provisioning of an eUICC, specific software must be installed on a server, known as the 'Subscription Manager (SM)'. For M2M (machine-to-machine) eUICCs, the Subscription Manager is divided into two distinct components: 

1. SM-DP (Data Preparation) takes the raw profile information from an MNO, and personalizes it with the appropriate IMSI/Ki pair information. 
2. SM-SR (Secure Routing) provides a secure routing path for the transmission of information from the SM-DP to the eSIM.

In the consumer sector, these functions are merged and augmented, resulting in a unified system referred to as the SM-DP+.

SM-DP+ Address

The SM-DP+ (Subscription Manager - Data Preparation Plus) address plays a vital role in the eSIM (Embedded SIM) ecosystem.

The SM-DP+ address is a unique identifier that enables the secure and remote provisioning of eSIM profiles. The address is essentially a URL or URI (Uniform Resource Identifier) that points to the SM-DP+ server, where eSIM profiles are prepared and stored for deployment. 

ICCID

The Integrated Circuit Card Identifier (ICCID) is a pivotal element in eSIM technology This numeric identifier is typically 19 or 20 digits long starting with 89.  ICCID's primary function is to facilitate the identification and authentication of the eSIM profile to the mobile network. 

You can follow a straightforward process to Find ICCID (Circuit Card Identifier). 

Each ICCID is composed of several key segments that encode specific information:

1. Issuer Identification Number (IIN): The initial segment, usually 6 to 7 digits, identifies the issuing network or organization
2. Individual Account Identification: This portion varies in length and is assigned by the issuer to identify the individual account uniquely
3. Check Digit: The final digit, calculated through the Luhn algorithm, serves as a form of error detection, ensuring the ICCID's integrity.

eSIM Pros & Cons

eSIM Pros:

1. Convenience: eSIMs eliminate the need for physical SIM cards. It allows users to switch carriers and profiles through device settings without needing to visit a store or wait for a new SIM card.
2. Space-saving: eSIM technology saves space in devices, allowing manufacturers to design smaller or more feature-packed gadgets.
3. Multiple Profiles: Users can store multiple carrier profiles on one device, making it easy to switch between different plans or carriers, which is particularly beneficial for frequent travelers.
4. Remote Provisioning: eSIMs can be activated and managed remotely, simplifying the process of changing or updating carrier information.
5. Environmental Impact: By reducing the need for physical SIM cards made of plastic, eSIMs contribute to a reduction in environmental waste.

eSIM Cons

1. Compatibility Issues: Not all devices support eSIM technology, which can limit its adoption and usefulness for some users.
2. Carrier Support: While many major carriers support eSIM, not all do, and some may offer limited functionality compared to traditional SIM cards.
3. Security Concerns: As with any digital technology, there is a potential risk of hacking or unauthorized access, although eSIMs include robust security measures.
4. Setup Complexity: Some users may find the initial setup and management of eSIM profiles more complex compared to the straightforward insertion of a physical SIM card.
5. Availability: In some regions, eSIM services and support may be less available, which can hinder the user experience.

What are eSIM-Compatible Devices

eSIM-compatible devices refer to smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and other gadgets that support eSIM technology, allowing users to download and use eSIM profiles for connectivity. These devices have an embedded SIM (eSIM) that cannot be removed and are designed to access cellular networks through remote SIM provisioning.

What is the Price of an eSIM?

The price of an eSIM varies depending on the country you are visiting and the plan you are choosing. eSIM Card offers different sorts of eSIM plans, including local eSIM plans for each country, regional eSIM plans for different regions, and Global eSIM plans for multiple countries. 

Local eSIM plans start from $ 2.4 ( varies from country to country), Regional eSIM plans start from $2.52 ( Starting price varies from region to region), and global eSIM plans start from $4.86. 

What is the eSIM plan?

An eSIM plan refers to a data package that users can purchase to access mobile networks using eSIM technology. These plans typically offer a certain amount of data for a specific duration, such as weekly or monthly, and can vary in price based on the amount of data provided. 

Why is eSIM Not Popular?

eSIM technology faces challenges in popularity due to several reasons highlighted in the provided sources:

1. Limited Network Support: eSIM compatibility varies among carriers and regions, with only the most popular phones supported by most carriers, particularly in the US. This limitation restricts the widespread adoption of eSIM technology, as not all networks fully support it.
2. Global Adoption Challenges: The global adoption of eSIM technology faces hurdles, with some countries and carriers lagging in eSIM support. This lack of uniformity in eSIM adoption across regions can hinder its popularity, especially for users who travel internationally or require consistent network access.
3. Device Compatibility: While eSIM technology is expanding to various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and wearables, not all devices support eSIMs. This lack of universal compatibility across devices can limit the widespread use of eSIM technology, affecting its overall popularity.

In summary, the limited network support, global adoption challenges, and device compatibility issues contribute to the slower adoption and popularity of eSIM technology.

How to Get an eSIM?

Buying and activating an eSIM online from eSIM Card is a straightforward process. 

1. Go to the eSIM Card App: Open your eSIM Card IOS App or Android App. 
2. Search the Country: Search for the country you need the internet for. 
3. Select the Data Plan: Select the Data package according to your need. 
4. Tap BUY NOW: Tap the Buy Now button below eSIM details. 
5. Agree to the terms: Agree to the terms and conditions after reading them. 
6. Press confirm to proceed: After pressing “Confirm” you will proceed to the confirmation page. 

How to Activate eSIM on iPhone

Installation via QR Code

1. Get the QR Code: After purchasing your eSIM, eSIM Card will provide a QR code. You can find this in your account under 'My eSIMs'.
2. Open iPhone Settings: On your iPhone, go to 'Settings', then 'Cellular', and select 'Add Cellular Plan'.
3. Scan the QR Code: Choose 'Use QR Code' and scan the code provided by eSIM Card.
4. Complete Setup: Label your new eSIM and set your preferences for calls, messages, and data as needed.

Note: Not all carriers offer eSIM services, so confirming this with your provider is essential.

Manual eSIM Activation

Manual eSIM activation is an alternative method, handy when automatic or QR code-based methods are not feasible. This process involves entering eSIM details manually into your iPhone, a method supported by many iPhone models with eSIM support. Here's how to do it:

1. Obtain eSIM Details: First, you need to get the necessary eSIM information from your carrier. This typically includes an SM-DP+ address and an activation code. Some carriers may also provide a confirmation code.
2. Access Cellular Settings: On your iPhone, go to Settings and tap on 'Cellular'. Here, you'll find the option to add a new cellular plan.
3. Choose Manual Activation: In the Cellular settings, select 'Add Cellular Plan', and then choose 'Enter Details Manually'. This option is crucial for manual eSIM activation.
4. Enter eSIM Information: Input the SM-DP+ address, activation code, and any other required information into the relevant fields. This step is critical for eSIM configuration and should be done carefully to avoid errors.
5. Complete Activation: After entering all the details, follow the remaining on-screen instructions to complete the activation process. This will integrate the eSIM into your iPhone's cellular plans.
6. Set Preferences: Once activated, label your eSIM (e.g., 'Business Line' or 'Travel SIM') and configure your preferred settings for calls, messages, and data usage. If your eSIM includes data plans, ensure these are set up according to your needs.
7. Verify Connectivity: Finally, check your iPhone’s cellular settings to confirm that the eSIM is active and connected to the network. 

Manual eSIM activation offers a high degree of control and is a valuable option when other methods are unavailable. It's beneficial for users who need specific eSIM data plans or have unique carrier requirements. 

How to Activate eSIM on Android 

Manual Method:

1. Access Device Settings: Open settings on your device.
2. Navigate to Network and Internet: Find the Cellular or Mobile section.
3. Tap SIMs: Tap "SIMs" to open active SIMs on Device. 
4. Tap Add More: tap the “Add More” tab at the bottom. 
5. Enter Details Manually: Input the SM-DP+ Address and Activation Code.
6. Label Your eSIM: Give your eSIM a name for easy identification.
7. Default Line Selection: Choose eSIM for cellular data only.
8. Confirmation: Your eSIM should now show under your data plans.

QR Code Method:

1. Access Device Settings: Open settings on your device.
2. Navigate to Network and Internet: Find the Cellular or Mobile section.
3. Tap SIMs: Tap "SIMs" to open active SIMs on Device. 
4. Tap Add More: Tap the “Add More” tab at the bottom. 
5. Use QR Code: Scan the QR code with your device.
6. Confirmation Code: Enter the 4-digit code if provided.
7. Label Your eSIM: Name your eSIM for easy recognition.
8. Default Line Selection: Set eSIM as your data line.

Is eSIM better than a physical SIM card?

Yes, eSIM is considered better than a physical SIM card based on its ability to offer greater flexibility in switching carriers and plans without physical SIM swaps, enhanced convenience for users, and seamless integration into devices like the iPhone, iPad, and Google Pixel. 

Does eSIM drain the battery?

The impact of eSIM technology on battery life is minimal The eSIM operates similarly to a traditional SIM card, with both utilizing minimal power to maintain a network connection The eUICC chip, responsible for eSIM functionality, is designed to be highly efficient Therefore, any battery drain attributed to eSIM usage is negligible compared to the overall power consumption of the device

Does eSIM work without the internet?

eSIM requires an initial internet connection for the provisioning service to download the carrier profile onto the device Once the eSIM profile is installed, the device can connect to the carrier's network without an internet connection for standard calls and SMS However, for operations such as switching carriers or downloading new profiles, an internet connection is necessary to access the provisioning service

Does eSIM support 5G?

Yes, eSIM technology is fully compatible with 5G networks The capability to support 5G is not inherently limited by the type of SIM technology (eSIM or physical SIM) but rather by the device's hardware and the carrier's network Manufacturers like Apple, Samsung, and Google have released devices, including the iPhone 12 series, Galaxy S21, and Pixel 5, which support 5G connectivity on both eSIM and physical SIM cards The GSMA's specifications ensure that eSIM technology is equipped to handle the advanced capabilities of 5G networks, offering users the full spectrum of 5G benefits such as increased speed and lower latency.