What is an eSIM?

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital, programmable SIM card built directly into a device's motherboard, replacing the need for a physical, removable plastic SIM card. It allows users to activate a mobile data plan, switch carriers, or add international plans instantly by downloading a profile, rather than waiting for a physical card.

Is it better to have a SIM or eSIM?

Durability: eSIMs are less prone to physical damage or loss compared to traditional SIM cards, as they are built into the device's hardware. Limited Carrier Support: Not all carriers support eSIM technology, which may limit options for users in certain regions or with specific service providers.

Do eSIMs keep your phone number?

Yes, you absolutely keep your number with an eSIM; it's a digital SIM that works like a physical one, allowing you to either switch your main number to it or add it as a second line for data (like for travel), using your phone's dual-SIM feature to maintain your primary number for calls and texts while using the eSIM for data, avoiding roaming charges. 

Can you switch back and forth between eSIM and SIM?

Your device may allow you to store multiple eSIMs at once, and it's easy to switch between your eSIMs. You can also switch from an eSIM back to your Primary SIM.

What is the risk of using eSIM?

Potential impact on mobile operators and users

They include: eSIM cloning: Attackers can replicate eSIM profiles, potentially hijacking a user's identity and mobile access. Communication interception: With control over an eSIM, adversaries can monitor SMS, calls and data traffic.

eSIM and iSIM Explained

Can I go back to physical SIM from eSIM?

How to convert eSIM to physical SIM. Start by going to the provider of your mobile connection or you can notify them that you'd prefer to use a physical SIM card instead of an eSIM. They will let you know where to send the card to or they will direct the card to be delivered to you.

Why is eSIM not popular?

eSIMs aren't universally popular yet due to lack of consumer awareness, carriers' slow adoption, and user hesitation about losing the physical control and ease of swapping physical SIMs, plus concerns about activation complexity, security, and carrier lock-in, even though eSIM offers benefits like easier travel and dual SIM functionality. The technology is still maturing, with fragmentation in device/carrier support and initial setup hurdles creating friction for mainstream adoption, notes this Quora thread and this Reddit post. 

Does eSIM drain battery?

An eSIM will not drain your battery any quicker than a physical SIM. However, if you only need data, we recommend you turn off your primary SIM when travelling, as using two SIMs will drain your battery faster. If you have two signal strength icons showing on your phone, then both SIMs are switched on.

How do I activate an eSIM?

Go to “Settings”, tap “Connections”, then tap “SIM card manager” on your device. Tap “Add mobile plan”, then tap “Scan carrier QR code”. Tap “Enter activation code”. Enter the SM-DP+ Address & Activation Code by copying it, tap “Connect”, then tap “Confirm”.

Can my phone be hacked with eSIM?

Despite all the security benefits that eSIMs come with, they're not immune to potential hacking attacks. SIM swaps are still possible: That's where someone impersonates you to get your number moved to a different device, disabling it on yours.

Can I use WhatsApp with an eSIM?

Does eSIM Work with WhatsApp? Absolutely. WhatsApp identifies you by your phone number (the one you verified during setup), not the SIM or eSIM you're using for data.

Why would someone get an eSIM?

Because most devices will also have room for a physical SIM card, you can have two numbers on one phone. You can switch between different networks and phone numbers, so an eSIM is great for anyone who needs multiple profiles. Perfect for business and travel use.

Is giffgaff eSIM free?

No extra fees: At giffgaff, there are no differences in pricing between a plan on a physical SIM card and a plan on an eSIM.

Can I have both a SIM and eSIM active?

Set up another cellular plan on your iPhone

You can use Dual SIM by using a physical SIM and an eSIM.

Why shouldn't I use eSIM?

The technology offers flexibility since you can switch between mobile networks and connect with friends back home. However, the seamless connectivity of eSIMs has security concerns that we shouldn't overlook. eSIM technology is potentially risky for remote hacking, jeopardising user data and privacy.

Is eSIM safe for banking?

In short, yes, eSIMs are safe for banking. While no technology is completely unhackable, the digital nature of eSIMs means they cannot be physically stolen or lost. As a result, customers are not vulnerable to identity theft or their SIM card numbers being used to bypass two-factor authentication (2FA) methods.

How do eSIMs work when travelling?

eSIMs work by tapping into the mobile networks in range of your device. So, rather than relying on the roaming partnerships of your home provider, you have the freedom to switch between carriers without physically changing your SIM card.

Do I have to pay monthly for eSIM?

We offer Pay As You Go (prepaid) SIM only deals to our customers, as long as their devices are compatible with the eSIM technology. We also offer eSIM deals with our Pay Monthly SIM only plans.

How to buy eSIM in the UK?

There are a few ways to get an eSIM with us:

1. Pre-installed on your new pay monthly device: You can choose an eSIM when you place your order. ...
2. Ordered with your SIM only plan: Opt for an eSIM when you order your plan and you can download it straight away through the EE app.