How does an eSIM work and what are its advantages for travel?
Do you know anything about eSIM? Do you? Then you’ve come to the right place! This little virtual chip is the latest innovation in telephony. Designed to make life even easier for smartphone users and new technology enthusiasts. We explain what it is, its advantages and whether you could use it with your own mobile.
What is an eSIM?
SIM stands for Subscriber Identity Module. Known since the 90s, it identifies the user on the network. It also contains information about you, your operator and the line you use.
The eSIM, or “embedded SIM”, is a virtual SIM card integrated directly into a device. Unlike traditional cards, it does not need to be inserted into a phone.
No more physical chips! It digitally stores your different subscriptions and profiles. So you can change operator or plan in the blink of an eye, without the need for complex manipulations. Like its little sister, it stores data online.
What's the difference between a SIM card and an eSIM?
As you can see, the key difference is that traditional SIM cards require a physical slot in the phone. And this is true whether the card is a mini, micro or nano size.
The eSIM is a chip integrated directly into the device.
This means you get the same functionality as a standard SIM card: calls, SMS and access to mobile data (if your plan includes these services). Beware of certain international rate plans, which may restrict data usage. In this case, calls and SMS are unavailable, leaving you with Internet communications.
But is that all? No, it isn’t! The other new feature is the ability to buy smartphones directly with an integrated SIM card. Gone are the days when your advisor would unwrap your phone to insert the card of your preferred operator.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of the virtual SIM card?
Is your phone running Android or iOS? eSIM is now compatible with both operating systems. It offers you a host of advantages, making it an essential solution for your travels and business activities:
- Flexibility: eSIM can store multiple operator profiles, making it easy to switch from one network to another. You can easily accumulate them!
- Space-saving: By eliminating the SIM slot, manufacturers can design more compact smartphones or integrate larger batteries.
- Easy to install: in just a few steps, you activate your eSIM and have access to mobile data as soon as you arrive.
- For travellers: TheeSIM allows you to quickly add a local package without looking for a physical store to buy a new SIM card. It’s ideal for those who frequently visit different countries such as the USA, Canada or Mexico!
Although eSIM is practical, it does have its drawbacks. For example, it is not yet universally compatible with all smartphones, limiting its use to recent devices such as the iPhone, Google Pixel or Samsung Galaxy.
Another big disadvantage is that, unlike a conventional SIM card, it’s impossible to easily transfer an eSIM between smartphones of different systems: iOS -> Android and vice-versa.
Can I still use my SIM card after installing an eSIM in my mobile?
Installing an eSIM does not prevent the use of a physical SIM card if your smartphone is dual SIM compatible. This allows you to use two mobile plans simultaneously, which is ideal for separating business and personal life, or for having a local plan when traveling.
You can even activate an eSIM and a physical SIM card simultaneously on a single device, although you’ll need to make a choice in your smartphone’s settings. Example: data for the eSIM and calls for the physical SIM.
How do I know if my device is eSIM-compatible?
Cell phones
Compatibility with eSIM depends on your smartphone model. Recent models such as the iPhone XS, XR, and later versions, as well as some Android devices such as the Google Pixel, are equipped with this technology. To check, go to your phone’s settings under “SIM cards and network” or consult your device manual.
Other compatible devices
In addition to cell phones, several other types of device use eSIM:
- Connected watches such as the Apple Watch Cellular and Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra or Z Flip.
- Tablets: Some iPad Pro models feature a small integrated chip.
- Laptops: eSIM integration enables direct mobile connectivity.
eSIM is particularly useful in connected devices such as smartwatches (Apple Watch, Samsung Galaxy Watch) or tablets (iPad), GPS devices or fitness equipment. It enables these devices to be connected to the mobile network independently of a smartphone, offering greater flexibility.
eSIM is particularly practical when used with connected watches: receive calls and messages without carrying your phone!
How do I obtain and activate an eSIM?
To obtain an eSIM, simply turn to an operator offering this service. In France, customers of traditional operators will easily find them. Orange, SFR and Bouygues Telecom support eSIM. But so do RED, B&You, Free, Lyca and Sosh.
Clearly, everyone is on board, and you’ll have no trouble finding a plan to match.
For travellers to North America, SIM USA offers prepaid eSIM prepaid plans in the USA, Canada and Mexico.
Activation
Activating an eSIM takes just a few simple steps:
- By QR code: The operator provides a QR code to be scanned via your device’s network settings.
- By application: Some operator applications allow you to activate eSIM directly.
- Manually: eSIM parameters can be entered manually if supplied.
Once purchased, installation is quick:
- Check your phone’s compatibility.
- Buy eSIM online.
- Scan the QR code received for activation or use the means provided by the operator.
You then benefit from Internet access as soon as you activate mobile data on site.
Can I use an eSIM card and a physical SIM card on different phones?
It is not possible to use the same number simultaneously on a physical SIM card and an eSIM on different devices. However, some operators offer specific solutions enabling the same plan to be shared between several devices, such as an Apple Watch and an iPhone, but not on two separate smartphones.
How do I travel with an eSIM?
eSIM is particularly advantageous for any customer wishing to travel abroad. Rather than searching for a local SIM card each time they arrive in a new country, users can simply activate a local or international eSIM profile.
You don’t have to wait for your SIM to arrive in the mail, either. It arrives directly in your mailbox! You’ll benefit from plans tailored to your destination, with no roaming charges.
Why opt for an eSIM when you travel to the USA?
eSIM is the ideal solution for staying connected while traveling in the USA. This easy-to-install virtual SIM card gives you access to local 4G or 5G networks at a much more affordable cost than the traditional roaming options offered by French operators.
With SIM USA, it connects directly to local operators such as AT&T or T-Mobile, depending on the options chosen and your phone’s compatibility. compatibility of your phone.
Is there a global eSIM?
Yes, some operators offer so-called “global” eSIMs, which enable you to stay connected in several countries with a single plan. These offers are perfect for frequent travelers or professionals on the move. However, they can be more expensive than local plans, and coverage can vary from region to region.
eSIM is revolutionizing the world of mobile telephony. More flexible, practical and adapted to modern needs, it offers a glimpse of tomorrow’s connectivity solutions. Whether you want to simplify your travels or enjoy uninterrupted connectivity.
