All about e-SIMs: Benefits, activation process, and essential tips (2024)

Synopsis

The e-SIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital SIM allows users to activate a mobile plan without the need for a physical SIM. Here's all about eSIMs, the process to activate, benefits, and other things you neeed to know.

All about e-SIMs: Benefits, activation process, and essential tips (1)Agencies

Telecom giant Airtel's CEO, Gopal Vittal, recently reached out to customers with an important message about embedded SIM or e-SIM technology. In an email to subscribers, Vittal addressed key questions regarding e-SIM and provided guidance on how Airtel customers can upgrade to this new technology. So in case you are wondering about the e-SIM technology, here's an explainer.


What is it?
The e-SIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital counterpart to physical SIM cards. It allows users to activate a mobile plan without the need for a physical SIM, providing a streamlined and convenient experience.


Devices that support eSIM:

  • Apple: iPhone 14 and above
  • Google: Pixel 4 and later
  • Samsung: Various models, including the Galaxy S and Z series
  • Other manufacturers: Many smartphones support e-SIM.

How to check for eSIM compatibility:

All about e-SIMs: Benefits, activation process, and essential tips (2)

    Navigate to Settings, tap About Phone, and select Show EID. If an EID number is visible, your phone is eSIM-compatible.


    Activating e-SIM:

    • iPhone (14 and above): Settings > Mobile Data > Convert to eSIM
    • Android: Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager > Add Mobile Plan > Add using QR code
    • Google Pixel: Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network > Add Carrier > Scan QR code

    Benefits of eSIMs
    One of the notable benefits of e-SIM is the convenience it provides. With an e-SIM, users no longer need to physically possess a SIM card. Instead, it serves as an online extension of their regular SIM card. For instance, individuals can go for a morning jog without carrying their phone since their smartwatch, equipped with an e-SIM, ensures connectivity while the phone remains at home. Furthermore, e-SIM allows users to use multiple mobile numbers on a single device, making it flexible for those who require such functionality.


    How to transfer eSIMs from one phone to another?
    Airtel has explained the process of transferring eSIMs from one device to another. Airtel explained in a blog post, "From your new smartphone, send an SMS with the text: eSIM <> registered email ID and send the message to the number 121. Make sure that you reply to this SMS with a ‘1’, as this confirms that you have accepted the transfer. This needs to be done within 60 seconds. After this, you will receive another consent call from 121, which will ask if you want to switch to an eSIM. If you fail to do this, your request to get a new eSIM will be cancelled. Finally, you will receive one last SMS from 121, which will tell you about the QR code that you get on your registered email ID. Now, you will see the QR code on your email. Scan this QR code on your mobile phone, and your eSIM will be updated on your new phone within 2 hours. Your previous SIM card stays active until the new ones get activated."

    What if your phone gets stolen?
    E-SIMs are more secure, as they are difficult for thieves to remove from stolen devices, making it easier to track lost smartphones.

    Can you convert my physical SIM to an e-SIM?
    Converting a physical SIM to an e-SIM is a simple process using the Airtel Thanks app. In the Airtel app, locate the 'Upgrade to eSIM' option and follow the instructions to proceed.

    How long does it take to activate an e-SIM?
    According to Airtel, as soon as the e-SIM profile is downloaded and enabled, it becomes activated. This could, though, vary depending on the telecom operator.

    How many eSIMs can you use on one phone?
    As per Apple, you can install eight or more eSIMs on an iPhone and use two phone numbers at the same time. However, Android devices currently do not support more than one eSIM on one device. According to reports, Android 14 devices may support dual eSIMs, provided your operator allows it.

    Points to remember with your new eSIM card
    Do not ever click on the Delete eSIM option on your smartphone, Airtel said in a blog post. If you do so, your SIM card will end up being deleted from your mobile. Therefore, you will not be able to make calls from your phone anymore.

    "Another point that you have to remember is to complete the whole process of adding the carrier after scanning the QR code. Leaving the process midway is not considered wise. Make sure the email ID you are providing is valid. In case it is not, you will receive a text back from 121, which will provide you with further instructions on it," Airtel added.

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    All about e-SIMs: Benefits, activation process, and essential tips (2024)

    FAQs

    All about e-SIMs: Benefits, activation process, and essential tips? ›

    Users can activate their eSIM by scanning a QR code provided by their carrier or manually entering the activation information. Once activated, the eSIM allows users to make calls, send texts, and access data services just like a traditional SIM card, providing a seamless and efficient mobile experience.

    What is the downside of eSIM? ›

    If you are using an eSIM and you need to change phones, you will have to contact your local phone provider to enquire how to transfer your eSIM, if that's even possible. While Android and iOS have eSIM transfer tools, not all carriers allow an eSIM transfer.

    What are the benefits of eSIM activation? ›

    Benefits of eSIMs
    • Activate your eSIM card online on the same day. ...
    • Store more than one eSIM profile. ...
    • No risk of SIM card damage or loss. ...
    • Convenient for overseas trips and travel. ...
    • Improved security. ...
    • Difficult to swap devices. ...
    • Limited device compatibility. ...
    • Activation requires a stable internet connection.
    May 22, 2024

    What is required for eSIM activation? ›

    Activation of eSIM from self-care process through SMS is very easy and can be done at your convenience from home anytime. Type GETESIM<32-digit EID><15-digit IMEI> and send it to 199 from the Jio number you wish to activate eSIM on. To give your consent, type '1' and send the SMS to 199.

    Does eSIM change your phone number? ›

    The answer is generally no. When you install an eSIM, it doesn't directly alter your phone number. Your phone number remains the same, and you can continue to use it as you normally would.

    What is the risk with eSIM? ›

    However, you should remember that no connected device is 100% immune to hacking. And since eSIMs are used on connected devices, like any other technology, they are vulnerable to malware, social engineering, and phishing attacks.

    Does eSIM drain battery? ›

    The short answer is no, not really. An eSIM itself doesn't use more battery than a physical SIM. However, if you're using your phone with two lines (one eSIM and one physical SIM), your phone must maintain a connection to two networks. This can use more battery because your phone is doing extra work.

    Which eSIM is best in the USA? ›

    1. Saily – best eSIM for the USA. With an array of affordable data plans and coverage across the US, Saily is a perfect choice for travelers who want to avoid high roaming charges and the trouble of acquiring a local SIM card. This eSIM provider has 5 different plans for the US, and they're valid for 7 to 30 days.

    Why would someone need an eSIM? ›

    One of the main benefits of using a smartphone that supports eSIMs is that you'll have an easier time switching mobile networks, especially when traveling. Depending on the model, iPhones can support eight or possibly more eSIM profiles, for example.

    How much does it cost to activate eSIM? ›

    In addition, eSIM Card do not carry a one-time activation fee added to the plan's cost, unlike other couriers, which typically charge a one-time activation fee, usually around $10. Overall, the cost of an eSIM is comparable to that of a traditional SIM card.

    Can I activate eSIM myself? ›

    To activate your eSIM, you need a wireless carrier which provides you an eSIM profile as well as an eSIM data plan. To download your eSIM profile on your Android device, you may receive an “activation code” from an eSIM carrier. The activation code is in fact a download link.

    Do I need WiFi to activate eSIM? ›

    Do I need a WiFi network to activate my eSIM? Yes, to activate an eSIM on your device you will need a WiFi or cellular connection.

    What are the disadvantages of an eSIM? ›

    Disadvantages of eSIM
    • Difficult to switch devices. It can be tough to swap devices if there is an emergency, and this is one of the cons of eSIM cards. ...
    • eSIM supports limited premium phones. ...
    • Easily tracked by network providers. ...
    • Phone hacking. ...
    • Complex activation process.
    Aug 13, 2024

    Do you keep the same number with eSIM? ›

    Absolutely! As long as you keep your device supports dual SIM (two SIMs) and you leave your primary SIM switched on, you'll have full access to your regular phone number while you're using an eSIM.

    How do I know if my eSIM is activated? ›

    For Android devices, here are the steps:
    1. Start off by going to Settings then pick SIM cards & mobile networks.
    2. Next, scroll down and choose Manage eSIM.
    3. Here, you'll find your activated eSIM. Don't forget to double-check that it's turned on.

    Is it better to have eSIM or physical SIM? ›

    Yes, eSIMs are secure. Because you can remove a traditional SIM card, someone can steal it without physically stealing your device. Meanwhile, you can only steal an eSIM by stealing the whole phone.

    Why is eSIM not popular? ›

    Device manufacturers are also hesitant to adopt eSIM technology due to concerns about its potential impact on their business models. Integrating eSIM technology into devices requires significant research, development, and testing investment, with no guarantee of widespread adoption or acceptance from consumers.

    Does eSIM have worse connection? ›

    In your quest to find out which is better between eSIM and pSIM (which is the same as physical SIM) you might be wondering if one has better signal strength than the other. The good news is that neither type of SIM is better or worse signal-wise.

    Is it worth having an eSIM? ›

    eSIM is more secure than a physical SIM because it can't be removed if your iPhone is lost or stolen. With eSIM, you don't need to obtain, carry and swap physical SIM cards, which can also be lost, or wait for them to arrive in the post before you leave.

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