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What is an eSIM and how does it work?
An eSIM is a digital SIM that works in the exact same way as a physical one. And if you’re about to own one, here are a few things you might want to know.
Some networks have recently changed how they get customers connected, with many offering an eSIM rather than a physical SIM card that you place inside your phone. This simple little upgrade has loads of benefits that’ll make it the norm for phone owners in no time.
eSIM
An eSIM is built into the phone and downloads your network details electronically.
It acts exactly like a physical SIM. The only difference is that to get set up, you’ll scan a QR code or use an app.
Best for:
Anyone who values convenience and security.
SIM
A small physical card you put in your phone that connects it to a mobile network.
It stores your phone number and lets you make calls, send texts, and use mobile data.
Best for:
People using older devices that might not support an eSIM.
Benefits of using an eSIM
Easy switching between networks
With an eSIM, there’s no need to wait for the postie to deliver your SIM card – you just switch on your new phone and follow the set-up instructions. Easy-peasy.
Duel SIM support
This lets you use more than one network and plan on the same phone. It’s not something most of us would need, but if you wanted to combine a work number and a personal number on one mobile – now you can!
No physical SIM
There’s zero risk of losing it or breaking it. And the best bit, you don’t have to hunt high and low for that tiny SIM tool to open your phone.
No high roaming fees
If you’re going abroad, an eSIM will connect you to local networks, which means avoiding unexpected roaming fees. With a physical SIM in your phone, it stays tied to your home carrier. An eSIM will let you connect to local networks that are usually much cheaper.
Zero waste
Having an eSIM means less waste, since there’s no need for a plastic card, or any postage and packaging. Everything adds up.
Built-in security
Better protect yourself by making it impossible for SIM-swap fraudsters to get their mitts on your SIM.
How to activate an eSIM?
First things first, get connected to a Wi-Fi network or activate your mobile data. The next bit will depend on whether you’ve got an iPhone or Android device.
On iPhone
- Go to Settings
- Tap Mobile Data
- Tap Add eSIM
- Choose Use QR Code or Transfer from nearby iPhone
- Scan the QR code or enter details manually
- Confirm activation
On Android
- Go to Settings
- Tap Connections or Network & Internet
- Tap SIMs or Mobile network
- Tap Add eSIM or Download a SIM
- Scan the QR code or enter details manually
- Confirm activation
Once you’re all set up, you might need to restart your phone to make sure everything’s running smoothly. And that’s it. No fiddly SIM trays, no complicated menus, just smooth sailing.
This new, digital version of a SIM card works just like a physical one but gives you more flexibility, easier switching, and better support for multiple numbers and travel. Not bad, eh?
- What does eSIM stand for?
It stands for embedded Subscriber Identity Module. (Yeah, we prefer eSIM too.)
- Does an eSIM need the internet to work?
You usually need an internet connection to activate it, but after that, no, it works just like a physical SIM.
- Can I keep my phone number when switching to an eSIM?
Yes, you can keep your current phone number when you switch from a physical SIM to an eSIM.
- Can I have the same number on an eSIM and a physical SIM?
No, a phone number can only be active on one SIM at a time. If your phone supports dual SIM, you can use an eSIM and physical SIM together. Each SIM will have its own phone number.
- Can I make and receive calls and texts on both numbers?
Yes, you can make calls and send texts from either of your numbers, and you can receive calls and texts for both numbers.
- Is an eSIM better than a physical SIM?
eSIMs are often more convenient — no SIM swapping, easier switching, better for travel — but both work the same for calls, texts and data.
- Are eSIMs secure?
Absolutely. eSIMs use strong encryption and tamper-resistant technology to protect your data. They’re just as secure as traditional SIM cards, if not safer, because they can’t be physically stolen or swapped without your knowledge.
- Which phones support eSIM?
Most modern devices are set up for eSIM, including the iPhone XS, Samsung Galaxy S20, and Google Pixel 3. Any newer generation after these will also support eSIM.
