Technology is evolving at an astonishing rate. In recent years, some manufacturers have integrated embedded Sims or eSIMs into their mobile phones. An embedded sim allows users to switch mobile networks without removing or replacing any hardware. This allows users to play internet roulette game by using the network of their choice.
What is an eSIM?
An embedded SIM is a SIM card built into the mobile phone at the time of manufacturing. There is no for physical SIM cards in the device. An eSIM can be reprogrammed to a new mobile network by the user. All you need to do is scan the QR code with your phone and the eSIM will automatically configure itself to the appropriate mobile network. eSIM allows you to change the network as often as you like.
It is basically a chip in the smartphone that works in a similar way to the NFC chip. This new technology is backed by the GSMA, the organization that has defined the standard for eSIM worldwide.
Which devices support eSIM?
Here is a list of the devices that support eSIM:
- iPhone XS & iPhone XS Max
- iPhone XR
- Samsung Galaxy Watch
- Apple Watch Series 4
- Apple Watch Series 3
- Surface Pro 4G LTE
- HP Spectre Folio 4G
- HP Spectre X360 4G
- 10.5-inch iPad Air (2019)
- iPad mini (2019)
- 12.9-inch iPad Pro (3rd gen)
- 11-inch iPad Pro
Google’s Pixel 2, Pixel 3, Pixel 3 XL and new Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL, as well as, Google Fi also support eSIM.
Networks supporting eSIM
eSIM is supported by only a few selected carriers. You’ll either need the carrier’s app or a QR code that you can scan on your device. The most important thing is that the carrier should support eSIM. At present, EE, O2 and Vodafone UK support eSIM in the United Kingdom. Vodafone currently offers an eSIM support for Apple Watch series.
O2 has recently launched its eSIM service for compatible Apple and Pixel phones. In a recent statement, the telecom operator said that the users will need to visit a local store or call the customer service to get an eSIM. Customers can also download an eSIM from the O2 website. After buying an eSIM pack from the local store, users will get a QR code and an instruction manual to use the card. Each eSIM has its own unique phone number just like the traditional SIM card.
How will eSIM work?
Basically, the role of an eSIM is similar to the traditional SIM card. If you have a physical and an eSIM enabled on your device, your phone will display both networks on the screen at the same time. If your handset is on the standby mode with both the SIM and eSIM enabled, you will be able to receive texts and calls on both of them. You can also choose to use the eSIM for cellular data only – can be useful if you are travelling and using a local data eSIM. Your phone will allow you to store more than one eSIM, but you can only use one at a time.