Communication plays a crucial role in today’s world. We all connect our devices to networks, activate SIM cards and gather all necessary information to ensure the smooth operation of our gadgets. However, with the advent of eSIM technology, the process of connecting and activating devices has become even more convenient and simple. In the near future, eSIMs may replace traditional SIM cards that are currently used in smartphones and tablets. A significant number of people are already using eSIM, and this number is expected to grow. Let’s explore the features of this new option, how eSIMs by eSim Plus differ from traditional plastic SIMs, and their advantages.
Table of contents
What is eSIM?
The eSIM is an embedded SIM card that replaces or acts as an alternative to a physical SIM card, which connects a phone to a mobile network. Unlike a traditional SIM card, an eSIM cannot be held in the hand, as it is not housed in a plastic casing and does not fit in a special slot. In essence, an eSIM is similar to a regular Sim, but it’s physically soldered onto the motherboard of a smartphone. “E” stands for “Embedded”. This isn’t just a device or subscriber number; it’s also a module like Bluetooth or NFC with its own processor, memory, controllers and operating system. eSIM cards use the same technologies and GSM networks as regular SIMs. You don’t need to insert or remove them physically, but you can change your phone number or carrier if you want. The information on eSIMs can be changed.
eSIMs for smartphones
eSIM is not a complex technology, but rather an additional feature for owners of mobile devices that support it. For example, to activate or change a number, users no longer need to visit a mobile operator’s office. They can do it through a specialized app or online. After connecting a digital SIM, users can enjoy its benefits and features for many years, without any hassle. Flagship models are often the first to be equipped with new technologies, and the list of devices that support eSIM includes most models from major brands such as Apple, Huawei, and Samsung.
Advantages of eSIMs over traditional SIM cards
- Convenience. When switching carriers or purchasing a new device, there is no need to physically move or change the SIM card. Additionally, if you need to switch devices, all your data will be synchronized between your smartphones, so you don’t need to worry about losing or damaging a tiny and delicate SIM card. Another benefit of virtual SIM cards is that they can’t be lost or stolen.
- Time-saving. You don’t need to visit a store or wait for delivery to get a new SIM card if you want to change carriers. An advantage of an eSIM is that telecommunications operators offer more attractive tariff plans because they don’t have to cover the costs of manufacturing and distributing physical SIM cards.
- Flexibility. The eSIM allows you to have multiple numbers on your device, so you can use different numbers for work and personal purposes.
- Security. An electronic SIM card provides a secure way to store data, reducing the risk of losing or damaging it. The eSIM uses a digital signature to verify the user’s identity, making it less vulnerable to fraud and data theft.
- Storage saving. For eSIM, you need a physical slot similar to that of a physical SIM card. This space can be used by manufacturers of mobile and wearable devices to increase battery size or add additional features. It can also be used in conjunction with physical SIM cards.
- Connection quality and speed. For eSIM, you need a dedicated slot, similar to that of a physical SIM card. Mobile and wearable device manufacturers can use this space to increase battery capacity or add additional features. It can also be used in conjunction with physical SIM cards.
- Affordability. eSIMs allow users to easily connect to local networks and avoid expensive roaming charges associated with regular data plans.
Disadvantages of eSIMs
The main disadvantage of an eSIM is that it can be less convenient when switching phones. You cannot simply remove the SIM card from one device and insert it into another. This can make it more difficult to troubleshoot issues with the device, as you cannot easily test if the problem is with the SIM or the phone itself. Additionally, with an eSIM, it may be more challenging to check for connectivity or signal issues. If you experience problems with your connection or signal strength, you will need to use another device to test if the issue is with your phone or the network. This is not possible with eSIM.
What is more, the virtual card cannot be deleted from a smartphone to prevent tracking user movements. However, if the device is lost or stolen, it will be easier to locate it.
Comparison
- A physical SIM card needs to be inserted into a special slot in the device, while the eSIM is a virtual chip that can be programmed and activated remotely.
- To use a physical SIM card, you need physical cards. However, eSIMs can be activated and used without a physical card.
- Connecting a physical SIM card to an operator’s network involves physically inserting it into a device. eSIMs, on the other hand, can be remotely connected by simply activating a specific profile on the device.
Conclusion
The electronic analog perfectly replaces the traditional SIM card, eliminating the need for manual manipulation of the smartphone to change numbers. In addition, users can use one device worldwide by simply switching to a preferred tariff. Considering the numerous benefits of this new eSIM format, it is likely that this type of cellular connectivity will gradually replace physical SIM cards.
