What is an eSIM and How Does it Work?

Everything is becoming digital, and SIM cards aren’t immune to this. 

If you’re wondering how something like a SIM card can be digitized, then here’s the answer: eSIMs. 

An eSIM is a digital SIM card that is already present in your device. You don’t have to insert or remove it. Just activate it and you can start using mobile services. 

Sounds like magic, doesn't it? 

Well, it’s not! This blog talks about everything there is to know about eSIMs, from the basics like “what is an eSIM” and “how does an eSIM work” to the pros and cons of eSIMs, the list of compatible devices, and more! Dive right in. 

What is an eSIM? 

Let’s get the basics out of the way first. 

eSIM is short for Embedded Subscriber Identity Module. It is a digital version of the traditional physical SIM card and is soldered into your device during manufacture. An eSIM cannot be physically removed from a smartphone.  

Most modern smartphones you find in the market today support eSIMs. Not just smartphones, there are tablets and smartwatches that are compatible with eSIMs. 

eSIMs have been around since 2016. It was a popular option for travelers (still is), but the number of non-travelers who are switching to eSIMs is steadily increasing. 

How Does an eSIM Work? 

Time to focus on the technical aspect! 

An eSIM works just like a physical SIM card. Instead of inserting a physical SIM card, you download an eSIM profile, mostly by scanning a QR code (more on that later). 

This eSIM profile contains the information required to connect your smartphone to your operator’s network. This information also includes your mobile number and your plan. 

What this means is that disabling one eSIM profile and enabling another is the equivalent of swapping SIM cards. The end result is the same, but unlike physical SIM cards, you don’t have to manually swap eSIMs. 

eSIM vs. Physical SIM Card: What is the Difference? 

Although both serve the same purpose, eSIMs and physical SIM cards aren’t the same. 

Here are the major differences between an eSIM and a physical SIM card. 

 What are the Advantages of eSIMs? 

Since an eSIM is the upgraded version of a physical SIM card, there are quite a few advantages. 

Whether you’re on the fence or just looking for information, here are the advantages of eSIMs. 

• 100% Digital: You don’t have to wait for the SIM card to arrive. Activation instructions are sent immediately after purchase. You can get an eSIM plan up and running in less than 15 minutes. 
• Can Hold Multiple Profiles: Carry more than 8 eSIM profiles wherever you go. Activate and deactivate them as you please. No SIM swapping required. 
• Safe and Secure: eSIMs cannot be stolen. They are also protected from damage due to elements. 
• Eco-Friendly: Since they are soldered into your smartphone, there’s nothing to dispose of when you switch between operators. 

What are the Disadvantages of eSIMs? 

Though eSIMs might sound quite advantageous, they still have flaws. Here are the disadvantages of eSIMs. 

• Device Compatibility: This is the single biggest disadvantage of eSIMs. Not all devices support eSIMs, making it essential to check device compatibility before purchasing. 
• Complicated Transfer Process: Transferring an eSIM between devices is rarely straightforward. You may have to contact customer support for assistance, unlike physical SIM cards that can be swapped easily. 
• Internet Connectivity Dependence: Activating an eSIM requires a stable internet connection. The activation process will be interrupted if your internet connection is dodgy. 

Which Devices are Compatible with eSIMs? 

As mentioned above, device compatibility is one of the major concerns when it comes to eSIMs. 

But there are some ways to check whether your smartphone is compatible with eSIMs. 

The first method involves dialing a USSD code. Dial *#06# on your phone app. This code is used to display the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) of your smartphone. If you have an eSIM-compatible smartphone, then along with the IMEI, you should also see an EID. Short for Embedded Identity Document, an EID is a 32-digit serial number that is unique to eSIMs. 

Another way to check for eSIM compatibility is through the Settings app. Just open the Settings app and type “Add eSIM” in the search box. If your smartphone supports eSIMs, then the option to add an eSIM should appear. This option is normally found inside the Network settings. 

Alternatively, you can look for your device in our list of eSIM-compatible devices. 

How to Activate an eSIM? 

It’s actually quite easy to activate an eSIM. Follow these instructions and you should have an active eSIM mobile plan up and running in no time. 

Things You’ll Need 

• eSIM-Compatible Smartphone: Ensure the smartphone you’re trying to install an eSIM on actually supports it.  
• Stable Internet Connection: This is going to help you download the eSIM profile from Lyca Mobile and activate your eSIM. 

In addition to these two, make sure your smartphone is not tied to a specific carrier. You’re going to face issues if your eSIM-compatible smartphone is carrier locked. 

How to Activate an eSIM on an iPhone 

You can simply scan the activation QR code in the order confirmation email and follow the prompts that appear on the screen to activate your Lyca Mobile eSIM. 

Here are the alternative steps to activate a Lyca Mobile eSIM on your iPhone. 

Step 1: Open the Settings app. 

Step 2: Tap Cellular. 

Step 3: Tap Add eSIM. 

Step 4: Tap Use QR Code.  

Step 5: Tap Scan QR Code. 

Step 6: Scan the activation QR code to activate your Lyca Mobile eSIM. 

Scanning the QR code is the familiar and easy method to set up an eSIM on an iPhone. But there’s a manual activation method as well. Here’s how to do it. 

Step 1: Open the Settings app. 

Step 2: Tap Cellular. 

Step 3: Tap Add eSIM. 

Step 4: Tap Use QR Code.  

Step 5: Tap Scan QR Code. 

Step 6: Tap Enter Details Manually. 

Step 7: Input the SM-DP+ Address, the Activation Code, and the Confirmation Code from your provider. 

Follow the prompts that appear to complete the manual activation of an eSIM on your iPhone. 

How to Activate an eSIM on Android 

The steps to activate an eSIM on an Android device are similar to those of an iPhone with a few minor changes. 

The method of scanning the QR code works with Android devices as well. If you’re running into issues, follow these steps to activate a Lyca Mobile eSIM on an Android device. 

Step 1: Open the Settings app.   

Step 2: Tap Connections. 

Step 3: Tap SIM Manager. 

Step 4: Tap Add eSIMs. 

Step 5: Tap Scan QR code. 

Step 6: Scan the activation QR code and follow the prompts to complete setting up a Lyca Mobile eSIM on your Android device. 

If you’re unable to scan the QR code, consider the steps below to manually activate your eSIM on an Android device. 

Step 1: Open the Settings app.   

Step 2: Tap Connections. 

Step 3: Tap SIM Manager. 

Step 4: Tap Add eSIMs. 

Step 5: Tap Scan QR code. 

Step 6: Tap Enter activation code. 

Step 7: Enter the requested details and follow the prompts to complete the process. 

Please note that the “Connections” option might be labelled as “Network & Internet” based on your device manufacturer. 

Can You Use an eSIM and a Physical SIM Card at the Same Time? 

Yes, you can use an eSIM and a physical SIM card at the same time, provided your smartphone supports the dual SIM feature. 

Modern smartphones come with one physical SIM card slot and one eSIM. This means you can have two lines active at the same time, one from the physical SIM card and one from an eSIM profile. This works just like a smartphone with dual SIM cards. 

This setup is particularly beneficial for travelers and international students. They can activate a USA eSIM and use it during their time in the States, while their home SIM card stays active. This makes it easy to receive OTPs and other bank-related messages on the home SIM card. 

Conclusion 

eSIMs have changed the way people connect. They eliminate the need to wait for the SIM card to arrive or wait in long queues outside airport convenience stores. With eSIMs, you also don’t have to deal with swapping SIM cards. 

If you have an eSIM-compatible device, then we strongly recommend switching to an eSIM. The benefits are just too good to ignore. Explore Lyca Mobile’s best prepaid phone plans and upgrade to an eSIM today! 

You can also move to Lyca Mobile without changing your current number. Visit the Join Lyca Mobile page for more information. 

FAQs 

• Can I have multiple eSIMs on one phone? 

Yes, you can have multiple eSIMs on one phone. You can store more than 8 eSIM profiles and have 1 or 2 lines active at the same time. Check your device documentation to learn more. 

• Can I use an eSIM on any phone? 

No, you can use an eSIM only on eSIM-compatible devices. Look for your device in our list of eSIM-compatible devices. 

• Can I use an eSIM when traveling to the USA? 

Yes, you can use your eSIM when traveling to the USA. The USA eSIM will get you sufficient local calls, SMS, and data, while your home SIM card can stay active for important messages. 

• Is an eSIM better than a physical SIM card? 

In most instances, an eSIM is better than a physical SIM card. With an eSIM, you don’t have to wait for SIM card delivery or stand in long lines to purchase a SIM card. You can also switch between operators/numbers without swapping SIM cards. 

• Are eSIMs secure? 

Yes, eSIMs are more secure than physical SIM cards. The risk of SIM swapping scams is comparatively low. eSIMs are also safe from physical damage, dust, and theft.