What is eSim?
An eSIM, or embedded subscriber identity module, is a digital SIM card that's built into a device and allows you to use a mobile plan without a physical SIM card. eSIMs are available for smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and some cars.
eSIMs versus physical SIM cards
The development of eSIMs versus physical SIM cards is deeply intertwined with advancements in mobile technology and telecommunications. Let's delve into their histories, the technology behind each, and the ways they reflect the evolving telecommunications landscape.
1. Historical Evolution of SIM Cards
- Physical SIM Cards: Introduced in 1991 by the GSM Association (GSMA), physical SIM cards were first used to authenticate and identify mobile users. They allowed carriers to tie user identities to mobile networks, making managing subscriptions, securing connections, and storing limited data like contacts and messages easier.
- Size Reductions: Initially, SIM cards were as large as credit cards. However, by the mid-1990s, they shrank to the Mini-SIM (25x15mm), Micro-SIM (15x12mm), and Nano-SIM (12.3x8.8mm) we know today. This gradual reduction in size allowed manufacturers to save precious space for other components, such as batteries and cameras, in increasingly compact devices.
- Technical Improvements: Physical SIM cards evolved to include more storage capacity and security features, especially as mobile devices advanced. However, physical cards remained limited by their need for a dedicated slot and the manual process required for swapping between devices.
2. The Introduction of eSIM Technology
- Development of eSIMs: eSIMs were developed as part of a GSMA initiative to make switching between networks more flexible and to reduce the space occupied by SIM card trays. Apple played a significant role in pushing the adoption of eSIM technology by first using it in the Apple Watch Series 3 in 2017, followed by the iPhone XS in 2018.
- Digital SIMs and Profile Management: eSIM technology is entirely embedded into the device’s hardware, eliminating the need for a separate card. Users can download different carrier profiles, allowing quick activation and switching between carriers or plans without needing a physical card.
- Wider Adoption and 5G Readiness: eSIMs have gained traction with 5G adoption, as they streamline provisioning processes, allow more rapid network switching, and support faster global rollouts. They are also critical in IoT and M2M (Machine-to-Machine) communications, making them essential in industries like automotive, logistics, and smart homes.
3. Technical Structure and Authentication
- Physical SIM Cards: These are essentially smart cards embedded with a microcontroller and memory. They store International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) numbers and an authentication key to identify and authenticate subscribers on networks. When the SIM connects to a network, it uses the IMSI along with a temporary number called the TMSI (Temporary Mobile Subscriber Identity) to protect user data and privacy.
- eSIMs: eSIMs use similar technology but are built directly into the device’s motherboard. They’re often tied to UICC (Universal Integrated Circuit Card) standards that allow remote profile management and provisioning. Using the same IMSI-based identification system, eSIMs work by storing multiple digital profiles in the device, which can be switched with software rather than by physical replacement.
4. Security Differences and Innovations
- Physical SIM Security: Physical SIM cards introduced early protections, including PINs, to secure access. However, they are vulnerable to SIM-swapping attacks, where malicious actors trick carriers into transferring a user’s number to a new SIM card, often leading to fraud.
- eSIM Security: eSIMs add an extra layer of security since they are embedded into the device and cannot be physically removed. The GSMA has also introduced remote SIM provisioning (RSP) protocols to secure the process of activating, updating, and deactivating eSIM profiles. This digital-only approach reduces SIM-swapping risk but requires stringent cybersecurity protocols, especially with remote provisioning.
5. Market Trends and Ecosystem Shifts
- Consumer Adoption: The push for eSIM adoption is led by major brands like Apple, Google, and Samsung. These brands focus on high-end devices, which often target tech-savvy users and frequent travelers who benefit from easier network switching. eSIM support also helps brands deliver slimmer devices with improved water and dust resistance by removing the physical SIM slot.
- Carrier Adoption: While eSIM technology offers flexibility for consumers, it initially met resistance from carriers due to concerns over customer retention. However, as the technology became more widespread, more carriers began supporting it to stay competitive, especially for users who prefer to manage network subscriptions digitally.
- IoT and M2M Applications: eSIMs are particularly impactful for the Internet of Things (IoT), where devices like smart meters, connected vehicles, and industrial machines need reliable and consistent network connectivity without the logistical challenge of managing physical SIM cards. These industries benefit from centralized profile management and remote activation.
6. Technical Benefits and Future Possibilities
- Scalability and Remote Provisioning: eSIMs allow providers to push software updates, change profiles, and even troubleshoot connectivity issues remotely, offering convenience and reducing costs. For example, automotive companies can update in-car connectivity features without a visit to a service center.
- Environmental and Space Benefits: Removing the need for a physical card reduces waste, making eSIMs more environmentally friendly. Additionally, eSIMs free up space within devices, enabling manufacturers to include larger batteries, additional sensors, or improved cooling systems.
- Future Development with iSIM: Integrated SIM (iSIM) technology, the next iteration of eSIM, integrates SIM functionality into the device's main chipset, offering even greater space efficiency, power savings, and cost-effectiveness. iSIMs are expected to make significant headway in IoT devices, where conserving space and power is critical.
7. Challenges and Limitations
- Compatibility: Not all devices support eSIMs, and in some countries, eSIM support remains limited, so physical SIMs retain value in many markets. Some carriers still prefer physical SIMs as they allow closer control over customers, especially in markets with less digital infrastructure.
- Security and Privacy: eSIM technology has greater digital security requirements, especially for remote profile provisioning and updates, which requires careful oversight to avoid breaches. The security of centralized eSIM management platforms is paramount, as potential vulnerabilities could expose numerous devices at once.
How it works
An eSIM is a reprogrammable microchip that's pre-installed on your phone. You can download eSIM data plans and activate them remotely, without having to insert or replace a physical card.
How to use it
- To use an eSIM, you can:
- Buy an eSIM plan from a network provider or worldwide service provider
- Download and install the eSIM plan on your phone
- Connect to a local network
How do eSims work for travel?
eSIMs, or embedded SIM cards, are a way to stay connected while traveling by allowing you to use data plans from different service providers without needing to buy or install physical SIM cards:
Step | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Purchase | Order an eSIM plan for the country you're visiting from a local network provider or a worldwide service provider |
Activate | Download the eSIM plan and scan the activation QR code in your phone's settings |
Switch | Once you arrive at your destination, switch to the eSIM plan to start using local data |
Here are some benefits of using eSIMs for travel:
- Cost-effective: eSIMs can reduce mobile data costs compared to international roaming.
- Security: You don't need to worry about losing, damaging, or having your physical card stolen.
- Easy to switch: You can easily switch between carriers and plans to minimize service interruptions.
- No lines: You don't have to wait in line to buy a physical SIM card, especially at the airport.
Here are some tips for using eSIMs for travel:
- Install your eSIM 1-2 days before you depart.
- Activate data roaming in your device settings.
- Set the eSIM as the default in your mobile data settings as soon as you land.
If you set your regular SIM card as your primary SIM card, you should turn off roaming before using an eSIM.
- Looking ForwardeSIM Adoption and Physical SIM Decline: Although eSIMs are not yet universal, they are widely seen as the future of mobile connectivity, especially in high-end devices and IoT solutions. Physical SIM cards are likely to remain for compatibility reasons, but they may become less common as more devices and carriers support eSIMs worldwide.
- Standardization and Consumer Control: With ongoing development by the GSMA and other industry leaders, eSIM standards are expected to improve, simplifying the user experience and making digital provisioning more secure and accessible.
Here's a list of popular smartphones that support eSIM technology, organized by brand.
Apple
- iPhone Models (2018 and later):
- iPhone XS, XS Max, XR
- iPhone 11 series
- iPhone 12 series
- iPhone 13 series
- iPhone 14 series (supports dual eSIM)
- iPhone 15 series (fully eSIM in the U.S.)
- Pixel Models:
- Pixel 2 (only Verizon and Google Fi)
- Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL (limited eSIM support)
- Pixel 3a series
- Pixel 4 series
- Pixel 5 series
- Pixel 6 series
- Pixel 7 series
- Pixel Fold, Pixel Tablet
Samsung
- Galaxy S Series:
- Galaxy S20 series
- Galaxy S21 series
- Galaxy S22 series
- Galaxy S23 series
- Galaxy Note Series:
- Galaxy Note 20 series
- Galaxy Z Series (Foldable):
- Galaxy Z Fold 2, Fold 3, Fold 4, Fold 5
- Galaxy Z Flip 3, Flip 4, Flip 5
Other Brands
- Huawei:
- P40 series
- Mate 40 Pro
- Motorola:
- Motorola Razr (2019 and newer models)
- Motorola Edge+ (some models)
- Sony:
- Xperia 10 III Lite
- Oppo:
- Oppo Find X3 Pro (China region)
- Microsoft:
- Surface Duo 2
eSIM Support in Wearables and Tablets
- Apple: Apple Watch Series 3 and newer, iPads (iPad Pro, iPad Air, and iPad Mini 5th gen and later)
- Samsung: Galaxy Watch Active 2, Galaxy Watch 3, Galaxy Watch 4 and newer models
- Google: Pixel Watch
These devices offer varying degrees of eSIM support based on carrier and region, so checking with your carrier is recommended for activation requirements and compatibility.
