How easy and stress-free would it be, if we land in a foreign country, and instead of searching for a store going round in circles from one end of the airport to the other, just to buy a local sim, we tap a few buttons on our phone and instantly get connected to the local network? a huge relief huh?
it’s possible now! it’s called an eSIM technology.
What is an eSIM and How does it work?
eSIM is an embedded SIM. It’s a small reprogrammable chip that’s built into your phone during manufacturing. It serves the same function as a physical SIM — it identifies you as a mobile subscriber and gives you access to a carrier’s network.
The good thing is, you don’t need to remove or insert anything physical in your phone. It works 100% digitally, you purchase an eSIM plan, install an eSIM profile in your phone, and instantly connect to a mobile network.
eSIMs vs Physical SIM Cards: Which one is better?
Both have their Pros and Cons but it really comes down to what you need!
eSIMs have made things simple and easy, especially if you are travelling a lot. Getting it is easy, it’s digital! You can buy it online and set it up on your phone. No need to visit a physical store (unless you want to). You also won’t lose it since it’s digital, not physical. Also, switching networks is easy! No swapping physical SIM cards.
Physical SIM cards have their own good and bad. The good is that you can move them from phone to phone in scenarios such as if your phone battery dies. Put it in another phone and you are good to go.
I personally prefer both in one phone. Since you can have a physical SIM and a few eSIMs installed in your phone (in the latest phones) simultaneously. eSIM for travel and the physical SIM of my home country so I don’t lose it and be able to put it in another phone in case of emergency. So, again, it’s really up to you what works best for you.
What Are The Benefits of Using an eSIM for Travelers?
eSIMs offer many benefits for travellers, some of which have made life easier during travels. Here are a few of them:
- No Store Visits: As mentioned earlier, the struggle for finding a store to buy a physical SIM is over. Purchase an eSIM plan, install your eSIM and You’re connected to a local network.
- No Physical SIM Switching: Yes! No need to search the deepest pockets of your luggage for SIM ejector tool after landing in an airport. Just download a new eSIM profile remotely and use it instantly.
- International Compatibility: eSIMs are international! You can have some eSIMs for 200+ countries worldwide. Which gives a greater security, flexibility, and reduced costs.
- Switch Plans Easily: You can change your calling or data plans beforehand or after arriving in your destination country. Find the best data or calling plan that works for you.
- Dual Active SIMs: As mentioned, you can have dual active SIMs in your phone. As I use, one for my home country and one for travel or work. This way you are connected to both worlds with ease using the same phone.
- Security: Since eSIMs are digital, you don’t have to worry about losing them or being stolen.
