Want to switch to an eSIM? Here's how to do it

The internet and digitisation have changed the way the world functions. Similarly, your mobile phones have revolutionised including the tiny SIM card. eSIM cards are the future that are here to replace the physical SIM cards.

What is an eSIM? The recently launched iPhone 14 has also adapted the no SIM slot concept. iPhone 14 in the US does not have a SIM slot. You need to get your eSIM activated for these devices. So, if you’ve asked your friends or relatives from the US to buy iPhone 14 for you at a cheaper price, then you must reconsider your decision. Older iPhones have only one SIM slot and the other one can be used as an eSIM. But the new iPhone 14 in the US does not have a SIM slot at all.

Other than iPhones, many other android phones offer only one SIM slot. In such a case you need to activate your eSIM for the second one.

The concept of eSIMs: eSIM stands for embedded SIM which works exactly like your regular SIM card chip. But the eSIM is permanently embedded in the motherboard of not just phones but watches as well.

The eSIM functions just like any other SIM. But this one is already embedded inside your device. The working process of an eSIM is also similar to that of a physical SIM.

You can also switch numbers (SIM) from the device settings without actually physically removing a SIM and then inserting a new one.

How eSIMs are beneficial: If you lose your phone, anyone can simply pull out your SIM, insert it in a different device and access your data. But this is impossible when there is no physical SIM. It is also more convenient as you don’t have to physically change SIM cards when switching numbers.

How to activate an eSIM card? You cannot activate an eSIM on your own. You need to connect with your network service provider to use an eSIM. Every network provider has their own set of rules. In general, you need to contact your network service provider to transfer your number through eSIM Carrier Activation. Some network providers also give a QR code to do the same.

What you should know before choosing eSIM: There are some disadvantages of using an eSIM as well. If your phone runs out of battery or it breaks down, you cannot insert your SIM in some other phone and carry on. Lack of a physical SIM will make it impossible to switch devices that easily.