eSIM (embedded SIM) is a relatively new technology that’s becoming trendy in the mobile industry. Unlike traditional SIM cards, eSIMs are embedded directly into smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches. As a mobile user, you don’t have to physically swap out SIM cards when switching carriers or traveling abroad. All you need to do is download a new profile onto the device. But being a relatively new technology, most people don’t know much about embedded SIM cards. In this article, we’ll discuss five talking points of the eSIM technology you should know. Let’s dive in!
Point #1. The Rich History of eSIM
Let’s go back to the beginning. Today, nearly all smartphones and tablets use SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) cards. These cards debuted in 1991 and were as huge as credit/debit cards. The idea was the same; save crucial data like subscriber identity and authentication keys. This provided users with a security layer when making calls and sharing SMSs.
By 2010, the first GSMA eSIM was embedded in IoT (Internet of Things) devices. This was the revolution required to trigger the eSIM revolution you see today. In 2016, Apple and other key figures lobbied the industry to accept eSIM on consumer smartphones and tablets. Embedded SIMs have become widespread thanks to their convenient roaming solutions.
Point #2. Physical SIM Versus eSIM?
One of the main differences between these two SIM cards is that eSIMs are integrated into the phone’s motherboard, whereas SIM cards are removable. Despite providing similar capabilities, eSIM enables users to establish a new cellular connection with a network provider without swapping SIM cards.
With eSIMs, you can establish and activate a cellular connection in any country without leaving your home or office. This provides immediate connectivity upon arriving at the destination. In short, they eliminate the expensive roaming fees or carrying additional SIM cards from your local countries.
Additionally, existing cellular plans on your installed SIM card or carrier plans remain active and can work simultaneously with eSIM.
Point #3. What is the Size of an eSIM?
Embedded SIMs are not physically visible like traditional SIM cards, meaning they do not have a particular size. Instead, they are built into the device as a tiny circuit board chip. This provides mobile phone users greater flexibility and convenience, as there is no need to physically insert or remove a SIM card when changing carrier plans.
But still, eSIM has a physical size, usually 2.5mm by 2.3mm. The thickness of most eSIM cards is around 0.2mm, which is small compared to a regular SIM measuring 15mm by 25mm. Even a nano-SIM (8.8mm by 12.3mm) will still appear huge. An eSIM occupies 60x less space than a nano-SIM.
Point #4. Which Devices Support eSIM Technology?
Whether you reside in Europe or plan to use an eSIM card for Thailand, it’s critical to know the devices that support this technology. Apple started rolling out devices with eSIM support in 2017, including iPhone XR and iPhone XS. Then in 2018, the company added eSIM-support on iPad Pro, although it still maintains physical SIM support on its modern smartphones and tablets. In the US, iPhone 14 exclusively uses eSIM chips.
Other premium devices that support eSIM technology include:
- Google’s Pixel 2 or newer
- Samsung’s Galaxy S20 and above
- Microsoft’s Surface Pro LTE
Point #5. Why Should You Start Using eSIM?
There are many advantages of using eSIM over traditional SIM cards. Below are some of them:
Convenience and flexibility: eSIM eliminates swapping SIM cards physically when changing carriers or travelling abroad. Users can simply switch carriers or activate a new plan remotely without changing anything.
Cost-effective: With an eSIM, you can avoid costly roaming charges and take advantage of local rates when traveling to different countries. This way, you can save money for other expenses.
Security: How many times have you lost a SIM card after removing it from your phone? Well, eSIM can’t be lost or stolen unless you lose the entire device. And even with that, you can lock the device to prevent unauthorized use.
Environmentally friendly: Technology companies have grown environment-conscious, and the introduction of eSIM is no surprise. Embedded SIMs eliminate the plastic waste generated by physical SIM cards.
Conclusion
Embedded SIM cards offer the same, if not better overall service than conventional SIM cards. They provide consumers with unmatched convenience, flexibility, and pocket friendliness. And there’s more; you can enjoy eSIM’s convenient roaming capabilities in 90+ countries with over 260 mobile carriers.
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