eSIM, short for embedded SIM, is a technology that allows devices to have a SIM card embedded directly into their hardware. Unlike traditional physical SIM cards, which are removable and inserted into a device's SIM card slot, eSIM is integrated into the device during manufacturing.
An eSIM is essentially a small chip that contains all the necessary information required to connect to a mobile network. This includes the unique identifier of the device (IMSI) and the authentication key (Ki) used for network authentication.
With eSIM, users can activate and switch between mobile network operators or data plans without needing to physically swap SIM cards. The process of activating an eSIM typically involves scanning a QR code or downloading a carrier's profile onto the device, which then securely authenticates the device on the mobile network.
eSIM technology offers greater convenience, flexibility, and space-saving advantages, particularly in devices where a physical SIM card slot may not be feasible or desirable, such as smartwatches, tablets, laptops, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices. It simplifies the process of connecting to mobile networks and enables users to easily switch carriers or plans without the need for physical SIM card manipulation.
The story of eSIM usage begins with the evolution of traditional SIM cards used in mobile devices. Unlike physical SIM cards that require insertion and removal, eSIM is a digital SIM that is built into a device and can be remotely activated and provisioned.
eSIM offers several advantages over traditional physical SIM cards:
eSIM provides greater flexibility, convenience, and security, making it an increasingly popular choice for mobile devices.
eSIM technology gained traction in 2016 with the release of the Google Pixel 2 smartphone, which included an eSIM chip. Since then, various device manufacturers, including Apple, Samsung, and Google, have incorporated eSIM capabilities into their products.