About eSIM on iPhone (2024)

FAQs

Is it good to use eSIM in iPhone? ›

eSIM is more secure than a physical SIM because it can't be removed if your iPhone is lost or stolen. With eSIM, you don't need to obtain, carry and swap physical SIM cards, which can also be lost, or wait for them to arrive in the post before you leave.

Changing devices might not be straightforward

If you are using an eSIM and you need to change phones, chances are that you will need to contact your local provider to enquire how to transfer your eSIM. While Android and iOS have eSIM transfer tools, not all carriers allow an eSIM transfer.

What is eSIM on iPhone? An eSIM is an industry-standard digital SIM that allows you to activate a cellular plan from your carrier without having to use a physical SIM. You can install eight or more eSIMs on an iPhone and use two phone numbers at the same time.

An eSIM is a digital version of the physical SIM card—identifying your device virtually to provide network connection. It's programmable remotely via software and is built into newer smartphones, meaning you wouldn't have to go purchase a new SIM card if you wanted to swap phones or wireless carriers.

The short answer is no, not really. An eSIM itself doesn't use more battery than a physical SIM. However, if you're using your phone with two lines (one eSIM and one physical SIM), your phone must maintain a connection to two networks. This can use more battery because your phone is doing extra work.

If physical SIM is disabled, the eSIM works absolutely fine without any lag.

So while your eSIM does not come with its own phone number, you're still able to call and text while traveling internationally, either using a free app or using your regular phone number.

To convert your eSIM to physical sim, you need to first deactivate your eSIM permanently. This will delete all your network details from the existing eSIM. You can't complete the process online or by yourself. Therefore, find the nearest store of your network provider.

However, it's important to note that once both eSIMs and traditional SIM cards are activated, they can function without an internet connection. This means that you can make calls, send text messages, and use other non-internet-dependent features on your device using either type of SIM card.

So as long as aloSIM is set to be your Primary/Preferred SIM, keep Data Roaming on. If you're using a Google Pixel for eSIM data, you'll need to make sure Roaming is off for your Primary SIM to avoid roaming charges while traveling internationally.

Should I turn off my primary SIM when using eSIM? ›

As long as you make sure data roaming is "off" for your primary cellular plan, you won't rack up any roaming charges. The advantage of keeping your primary cellular plan on while you're also using an eSIM data plan is that you're fully reachable on your regular phone number.

The process of eSIM installation and activation often requires you to have a stable internet connection. If you wait to purchase or install your eSIM only upon arrival, you are subject to the availability of WiFi at the airport; so it is always a good idea to purchase and install your eSIM before your flight.

eSIMs aren't available for older phones: Since they're relatively new, eSIMs aren't compatible with older phone models. It's harder to transfer data: Instead of popping the card out of a damaged phone, you have to download your data from the cloud to get your contacts, messages, and other media back.

What are the advantages of an eSIM? It's easier to switch networks. An eSIM makes it much easier to switch mobile networks. Instead of needing to order a new SIM, waiting for it to arrive, then inserting it into your phone, you can switch to a different network with a phone call or online.

Your eSIM itself never expires.

An eSIM is a digital version of a traditional SIM card, so think of your eSIM like a tiny physical SIM card that gets tucked inside your phone. That one eSIM can work forever, as long as you top it up with data packages.

eSIM is better than a physical SIM card because it has so many more benefits: – eSIM is small: This not only allows extra room for other components, or perhaps a larger battery, it also enables manufacturers to rejig the internal layout of their devices.

eSIM makes changing network providers easier

Having a phone with an eSIM allows you to change networks much faster, since it eliminates the need for you to get a new plastic SIM card. That means not having to visit your network's retailer or to wait for a card to arrive by post.

An eSim could save you cash when travelling outside of Europe. While eSims aren't hugely beneficial for day-to-day UK use yet, and likely not worth it if you're travelling within Europe for a short holiday (due to cheaper roaming in the EU), for a trip further afield they can be a good option.

What are the advantages of an eSIM? It's easier to switch networks. An eSIM makes it much easier to switch mobile networks. Instead of needing to order a new SIM, waiting for it to arrive, then inserting it into your phone, you can switch to a different network with a phone call or online.