What is an eSIM?
An eSim is smaller than a regular Micro Sim and even a Nano Sim. It is often attached to the integrated circuit of a device which allows users to activate a cellular plan from the carrier.
eSim or embedded SIM cards are digital sims embedded directly into a device.
eSims make it possible to set up, use and enjoy the benefits of a regular SIM card without having to buy a physical SIM card.
It means with eSIM, you can have an empty SIM tray and still be able to make calls, surf the web and make use of your phone as if a SiM were in it.
According to Trusted Connectivity Alliance, eSims have gained a 9% popularity increase since 2021 and has reached a total shipment number of 337 million units.
How does an eSIM work?
For an iPhone to be eSim compatible, it has to have an eUICC chip permanently attached to its integrated circuit. This makes it possible to use eSim services and multiple service providers on a single iPhone device this means devices that do not have this chip installed cannot have access to or use eSim services. It simply allows you to connect to your service provider’s cell towers, make calls and browse the internet.
Which iPhone models can use eSIMs?
Only the newer generations of iPhones like the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, or later have the eUICC chip installed in them and as a result are eSIM compatible. The United States version of the iPhone 14 does not have a SIM tray included and is strictly an eSIM device. Unfortunately, earlier versions of the iPhone do not have this chip installed and therefore cannot use the eSIM.
Now you know what an eSim is, what it does, and how it works. But what if I want to use eSiMs on my iPhone? How do I set it up and activate it?
What you need for eSIM activation to be smooth and successful;
All you’ll need is…
- An Phone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, or later.
- A Wireless carrier or worldwide service provider that supports eSIM.
- An Internet connection.
How to set up and use eSim on iPhone
Follow these simple steps to easily set up and use eSIM on your iPhone.
- Go to setting on your device.
- Click on Cellular or Mobile data.
- Click on ‘add eSIM’.
You will get two options ‘transfer from a nearby phone” and “scan QR code”.
To activate via QR code, you have to scan the unique QR code given from the service provider and you’re good to go.
You can manually enter the activation details provided to you by your service provider and follow the onscreen prompts to fully activate your eSIM.
When transferring from an old iPhone to a new one, it is important that the old iPhone is password protected, has bluetooth enabled and is on the IOS16. Once you’re certain all this requirements are met, you can begin your transfer.
To complete your transfer:
- Go to Settings on your new iPhone.
- Click on Cellular or Mobile Data.
- Click on Add Data Plan.
- Choose a mobile data plan to transfer from another device.
At this point you would most likely see a list of numbers, but if you don’t, click on transfer from another device. Both devices have to be on iOS 16 or later.
Check for instructions on your previous iPhone to confirm the transfer.
To confirm, click on Transfer, and if you’re asked to input a verification code, enter the code that’s displayed on your new iPhone. Wait for the mobile data plan to be activated on your new iPhone.
The previous SIM will be deactivated when the mobile data plan on your new iPhone is activated. If notification appears on your new iPhone that prompts you to ”Finish Setting Up Your Network Provider’s Data Plan”, click on it..
It will automatically redirect to your network provider’s web page to transfer your eSIM.
If you encounter any difficulty during this process, please contact your network provider.
Advantages of using the eSIM on your iPhone
- eSIM are resistant to damage, which makes them more durable compared to the normal SIM.
- eSIM lets you use multiple accounts on a single iPhone without having to switch sim cards.
- eSIM gives you easy access to service providers in other countries, this helps to avoid expensive roaming charges.