What is an eSIM and how to use it?

In today's increasingly digital world, the conventional physical SIM card you would insert into your phone has undergone a major transformation. The eSIM is a tiny, digital SIM that aims to redefine the mobile experience, offering a high level of convenience and flexibility. eSIMs are easy to activate, can support multiple cellular plans, and are super flexible and easy to use. You can easily switch between cellular plans or providers without ever having to swap out a card physically. While the first smartphone that supported eSIM was released in 2016, the technology has and will continue to evolve until eSIMs become the new normal. Once you’ve experienced the convenience of an eSIM, you may never want to return to the old way of doing things!

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM stands for embedded SIM and is a virtual version of your traditional SIM card. It is directly built into your phone, tablet, or other connected device and does everything you want your physical SIM card to do. Gone are the days when you would have to put physical SIM cards in the little slot of your mobile phone.

An eSIM uses a built-in chip and pre-installed software on your device, enabling it to be remotely activated and configured to function with different cellular networks. Unlike physical SIM cards, which need to be physically inserted into a device and manually configured to work with your carrier. Plus, an eSIM allows you to connect to a new network in minutes and avoid the hassle of physically obtaining a traditional SIM card and inserting it into your device.

Some eSIM providers, like Saily, also support multiple cellular profiles on one device, which you can switch between as needed. For example, if you enjoy traveling around the world, you can simply download a local cellular profile when you arrive at your destination instead of swapping out a physical SIM card.

How To Use An eSIM? 

If you’re new to eSIM, don’t worry—setting one up is pretty straightforward. You’ll just need to make sure that your device supports eSIM technology. Most new smartphones, including select models from Apple, Samsung, and Google, support eSIM. Double-check that your mobile carrier also supports eSIM because not all do. Plus, you will require a stable Wi-Fi or data connection to download the eSIM profile from your carrier.

Here is how you can activate your eSIM step-by-step:

1. Obtain eSIM details from your career

After signing up for a plan that supports eSIM, your carrier will provide you with a QR code or a manual activation code. If not, you may have to download your eSIM profile directly through their app, which is more convenient. Check with your carrier about the steps you need to follow to obtain the eSIM.

2. Scan the QR Code

Go to your device’s “Settings”. Select “Cellular” or “Mobile Data” and then “Add Cellular Plan.” Then, use your device’s camera to scan the QR code provided by the carrier. This will automatically start the eSIM activation process.

3. Manual Activation

If no QR code is provided, you will have to activate your eSIM manually. In this case, go to “Settings” and select “Cellular” or “Mobile Data”. Select “Add Cellular Plan” and choose “Enter Details Manually”. Enter the activation details provided by your carrier, including the SM-DP+address (the specified server location) and activation code (a unique identifier that lets your device connect to the carrier’s network).

4. Set Up Your eSIM

After scanning the QR code or entering the details manually, your device will connect to the carrier and download the eSIM profile. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup. You may have to select a default line if you are using multiple plans.

5. Label Your Plans

If you’re using multiple plans, label each plan, for example, “Work” and “Personal”. You can do this by going into “Settings”, selecting “Cellular” or “Mobile Data”, tapping on the plan’s name, and choosing “Label”. This is a quick and easy way to identify and manage which plan is used for which purpose.

6. Test Your Connection

Once your eSIM is activated, test your connection by calling or using data. If you encounter issues, restart your device and ensure the correct cellular plan is selected and turned on. This will also help you check that your eSIM is working correctly and you have a reliable cellular connection.

Benefits Of Using An eSIM

Using an eSIM helps you avoid the hassles and high costs of international roaming. By connecting to a local carrier at your destination, you can avoid those hefty roaming charges and stay connected. You can choose to pay for only what you need, for example, a short-term 7-day plan if you’re only traveling for a week. 

eSIMs allow device manufacturers to design more compact and sleek gadgets because there is no need for a slot for a physical SIM card. They also offer more security because there is no risk of unauthorized SIM card use. Plus, with no physical cards to dispose of, eSIMs significantly reduce plastic waste and contribute to a greener future.

08 Aug 2024
Singapore Expats