What is an eSIM and How Does it Work?
- Samuel Cardenas
- Jan 3
- 5 min read
Updated: Jan 8
Remember when arriving in a country you had to hunt for local SIM cards or pay overpriced roaming fees? Well, those days are about to be left behind, thanks to a technology that has slowly been growing called eSIM. If you're a frequent traveler, a digital nomad or just someone who travels sporadically, but has to be connected all the time, whether it's to navigate with maps or simply stay connected, understanding eSIMs could transform the way you stay connected at your next destination.
Think of an eSIM as your step to global connectivity, just as we have moved from physical to digital books and from cash payments to electronic payments such as cards or transfers, the traditional physical plastic SIM has evolved into something more convenient and functional: the eSIM.
Embedded directly into your device, the eSIM eliminates the need for physical SIM cards, allowing users to activate and manage mobile data in just a few simple steps.
So, whether you're planning your next international adventure or just want to be aware of this technology, this guide will help you understand everything you need to know about eSIM technology.
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital version of a traditional physical SIM card, which is integrated directly into the device. In terms of the main difference from the physical plastic SIM cards we have used for so many years, an eSIM is a small chip that is permanently embedded in your phone, tablet or smartwatch.
We could look at it this way: a traditional physical SIM card is like a physical DVD that you have to put into a DVD player, well an eSIM is like Netflix: digital, instantly accessible and requires no physical swapping. This small chip can simultaneously store multiple mobile carrier profiles, making it easy to switch data plans from one to another with a couple of taps on the screen.
Key Differences Between Physical SIM and eSIM:
Physical Form: Traditional SIMs are removable plastic cards, while eSIMs are built into your device
Storage Capacity: A physical SIM can only store one carrier profile at a time, but an eSIM can store multiple profiles
Activation Process: Physical SIMs require manual insertion and removal, while eSIMs are activated digitally through QR codes or apps
Flexibility: With an eSIM, you can switch carriers or plans without needing to physically swap cards
Environmental Impact: eSIMs reduce plastic waste as they eliminate the need for physical SIM cards and their packaging
How is it Different from a Regular SIM?
SIM cards store information from your mobile carrier on a kind of small memory card, which is physically inserted into your device. This includes your phone number, data and plan information, i.e. the amount of GB available, the amount of calls, etc. An eSIM does exactly the same thing, except that it is entirely in digital format. The key difference is that you can store and switch between multiple carrier profiles without having to physically swap cards.
This technology is very important for travelers, as they can easily keep their home carrier profile, without the risk of having to take it out and lose it, and add a local data plan at their destination, all on the same device, without the need to carry and swap these cards.
How Does an eSIM Work?
This technology may be a bit complex, but its operation is somewhat simpler than it sounds. Instead of inserting a traditional physical SIM card into the device, the eSIM works through a digital activation process that only takes a few minutes.
The activation process
Buy an eSIM plan: First, choose an eSIM data plan for your destination with the specifications you need, for this you can refer to our post: Best eSIM for Travelers in Europe which will be your guide to choosing a plan. This can be done completely online and from anywhere in the world.
Receive the activation data: After making the purchase, you will receive:
A QR code to scan
An activation code to enter manually
A direct download link
Installation: The device reads the QR code or activation data, then the eSIM profile is downloaded. This profile contains the necessary information to be activated and connected to the network. You can go to these links to guide you through the installation process in different devices.
Activation: Once installed, the eSIM can be activated immediately or it can be saved for later. The activation process usually takes a few minutes and then you will be connected to the local network.
Behind the scenes
Think of an eSIM as a chip which is programmable, i.e. it can be written and rewritten with different carrier profiles. When you activate an eSIM what happens is the following:
The chip receives encrypted information about your plan.
The device receives this information and verifies it with the carrier.
Once this whole process is successful and the information has been verified, the profile is stored on the device, and you can connect to the designated mobile network.
Managing Multiple Profiles
One of the most powerful features of eSIM technology is the ability to store multiple profiles. You can:
Keep your home network active
Add a local data plan for your travel destination
Switch between profiles easily through your device settings
Have multiple active plans simultaneously (depending on your device)
Security Features
eSIMs offer enhanced security compared to physical SIM cards:
Profiles are encrypted and securely stored
Cannot be physically stolen or lost
Remote management capabilities
Protected against unauthorized carrier switching
Device Compatibility
We have talked about the incredible advantages of eSIM technology, but it is important to keep in mind that not all devices are compatible with this feature. Although nowadays this feature is becoming more and more common in smartphones, tablets and other devices, the availability may also vary depending on the model, the place of purchase and the operator.
The good news is that most devices from major manufacturers such as Apple, Samsung and Google already come with the ability to support eSIM. However, there are variations in different regions and restrictions specific to the device model that need to be considered.
To help you determine if your device is eSIM-ready, we've created comprehensive resources:
Check our complete list of Supported Devices for detailed information
For iPhone users: How to check if my iOS device support eSIM?
For Android users: How to check if my Android device support eSIM?
Remember that even if your device supports eSIM, it needs to be carrier-unlocked to use this feature effectively.
Common Use Cases & Why You Should Consider an eSIM
eSIM technology has revolutionized how we stay connected, particularly benefiting:
International Travelers
No more hunting for local SIM cards at airports
Instant activation before you even land
Keep your home number while using local data
Digital Nomads
Easily switch between countries without physical SIM swapping
Maintain multiple data plans for different regions
Reliable connectivity for remote work
Have data plans that include multiple countries
Business Professionals
Separate work and personal profiles on one device
Seamless connectivity during international meetings
No need to carry multiple devices
Ready to Experience the Future of Mobile Connectivity?
The world of mobile connectivity is evolving, and eSIMs are leading the way. Whether you're planning your next adventure, working remotely, or simply looking to simplify your digital life, eSIM technology offers the flexibility and convenience you need.
Don't wait until you're struggling with connectivity issues at your destination. Get prepared for your next trip with becca mobile's eSIM solutions:
Instant activation
Competitive rates
Coverage in multiple countries
24/7 customer support
Still have questions? Check out our Help Center to check our FAQ or chat with us, we're here to help you stay connected wherever your journey takes you!
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