What is eSIM and how does it work?

Overpaying for mobile data on tourist plans and expensive roaming is a thing of the past! No more waiting in line at mobile shops or collecting a new stack of SIM cards after your trips.

These and many other benefits have become available thanks to eSIM technology. In this article, we’ll take a detailed look at how the mobile communications industry is changing and how to take full advantage of modern technologies.

eSIM technology is a modern digital alternative to traditional SIM cards.

First of all, let’s review some terms:

• eSIM — A general term used to describe eSIM technology.
• eSIM profile — A digital version of a SIM card. It performs the same function as a SIM card — storing the data needed to connect the device to the mobile network.
• eSIM chip — This is a specialized chip that allows you to download and store multiple eSIM profiles. Its technical designation is eUICC (Embedded Universal Integrated Circuit Card).
• eSIM QR — A special QR code that allows you to download an eSIM profile to your mobile device (load it onto the eSIM chip)

Unlike a traditional plastic SIM card, an eSIM profile can be downloaded to mobile devices. On the device, eSIM profiles are stored within the eSIM chip.

There are two types of eSIM chips:

• Built-in — Integrated directly into the mobile device by the manufacturer. Such a chip is already inside the smartphone, tablet, or other device.
• External — It is designed to look like a standard SIM card, but is actually an eSIM chip. It adds eSIM support to devices that do not originally support it. An example of such a solution is the eSIM.box card.

This means that you no longer need to swap out a physical SIM card to connect to a mobile carrier; instead, you can simply download an eSIM profile via a website or mobile app.

When connecting to a new mobile carrier using eSIM instead of a SIM card, they need to install an eSIM profile on their mobile device. This can be done as follows:

• Via QR code — The carrier sends the user an eSIM QR code, which can be sent as an image or printed on paper.
• Via the website
• Via the mobile app

The setup method depends on the carrier and how they provide eSIM profiles.

Typically, installing an eSIM profile involves activating it, but sometimes you can install it in an inactive state.

Once the eSIM profile is activated, the device registers with the carrier’s mobile network—just as if it had a regular SIM card.

The main difference from a SIM card is that the entire process of setting up an eSIM profile can be done remotely via the internet. Users can install new profiles, delete old ones, or switch between them directly in the device settings.

At the same time, when used with a mobile network, a device with an eSIM profile works just like one with a standard SIM card: it is authenticated by the carrier and gains access to calls, messages, and mobile data.

eSIM technology simplifies the process of connecting to and using mobile services. Compared to traditional SIM cards, it offers a number of advantages.

Travel convenience

One of the biggest advantages of eSIM becomes apparent when traveling. Users can choose or purchase an affordable data plan in just a few minutes! You can find the right plan on the websites or mobile apps of mobile carriers, eSIM providers, or travel aggregators.

This allows you to quickly sign up for a suitable internet plan and avoid expensive roaming charges.

Multiple profiles on a single device

Devices that support eSIM and the eSIM.box card allow you to store multiple carrier profiles at once. This is very convenient if you need to use different phone numbers—for example, for work and personal use. You can also switch between mobile carrier profiles in different countries.

Easily switch carriers

With eSIM, signing up with a new mobile carrier is much easier. You can purchase or activate your chosen plan via the website or the mobile app.

You no longer need to visit a mobile carrier store or wait for a SIM card to be delivered. All you need to do is activate your mobile carrier’s eSIM profile online, and your device will connect to the network.

Better use of internal space and device design

If an eSIM is built into the device, it takes up much less space than a SIM card slot.

This is particularly important for compact devices—such as smartwatches and IoT devices. Manufacturers can use the freed-up space for additional features or a higher-capacity battery.

Devices without a SIM card tray are much easier to make moisture- and dust-resistant.

High level of security

The GSMA-certified global infrastructure provides an unprecedented level of security.

Advantages for mobile operators

• Remote customer onboarding via websites and mobile apps.
• Lower production costs compared to SIM cards.
• No need for physical logistics.
• Faster production cycles — eSIM profiles can be generated in hours, while SIM card production can take a month or more, including logistics.

Environmental benefits

The use of eSIMs helps reduce the production of plastic SIM cards and their packaging.

eSIM is changing the way we connect to mobile networks.

You can add a new mobile carrier, change your plan, or set up service in another country in just a few minutes—right from your mobile device.