Disadvantages of eSIM : Know Hidden Hurdles of eSIM (2024)

FAQs

Disadvantages of eSIM : Know Hidden Hurdles 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.

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.

Common issues when activating an eSIM include incorrect QR code scanning, activation code errors, or network connectivity problems. These issues can often be resolved by double-checking the instructions and contacting your mobile network operator for assistance.

Any difference you experience in signal strength is likely because of external factors, not the type of SIM card you're using. eSIM technology gives you access to the same signal strength level as a traditional SIM but is also impacted by external factors that impact signal strength.

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.

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.

Yes, there's one big one. If you're used to swapping your single SIM card between a bunch of different devices—using several phones with one subscription—that becomes much more difficult with eSIM. Rather than just popping a card in, you'll have to go through the activation process each time you swap.

Your iPhone must be unlocked, or both cellular plans must be from the same carrier. Both plans must be set up and ready to use. Your carrier or carriers must support Dual SIM with eSIM. If a CDMA carrier provides your first SIM, your second SIM won't support CDMA.

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 by mail. You can have two eSIMs active on supported iPhone models at the same time.

Your eSIM itself never expires.

That one eSIM can work forever, as long as you top it up with data packages. So don't delete it! Think of your eSIM as an old-school DVD player, and the data package as a rented DVD movie. Once you've returned the DVD, you still own your DVD player but won't be able to play that movie.

Does eSIM drain battery? ›

An eSIM is internal to your device and built into its hardware. On its own, it doesn't do anything to drain your battery life. In fact, it's more energy-efficient than a traditional SIM!

Does eSIM slow down your phone? An eSIM has nothing to do with the internet speeds or better cellular reception. It is just like a digital copy of your SIM card.

eSIMs are way more secure than regular SIM cards because fundamentally, no one will be able to change your eSIM profile. Moreover, you can also block off the SIM card to prevent the thief from using it.

Changing devices might not be straightforward

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

This is because China, a crucial market and the home country of these brands, has strict regulations on e-SIMs due to security concerns. It is not clear if there is an explicit ban, but even Apple, which is the first company to support e-SIMs, does not sell iPhones with e-SIMs in China mainland.

eSIM network issues

If you own a phone device other than iOS, then here are the following things you might consider to solve the existing eSIM network issues: Check Signal Strength: It is important to understand that poor network coverage can highly impact the function of your eSIM services.

eSIMs are especially beneficial for international travelers and devices with limited physical space. Challenges with eSIMs include compatibility with older devices and the initial eSIM setup process for Android & for iOS.

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.

To convert your eSIM to physical sim, you need to first deactivate your eSIM permanently. This will delete all your network details from the existing eSIM. You can't complete the process online or by yourself. Therefore, find the nearest store of your network provider.