eSIM
Is a global specification by the GSMA which enables remote SIM provisioning of any mobile device.
eSIM now allows consumers to store multiple operator profiles on a device simultaneously, and switch between them remotely, though only one can be used at a time. The specification now extends to a wider range of devices, beyond the single companion device made possible with the first release. Manufacturers and operators can now enable consumers to select the operator of their choice and then securely download that operator’s SIM application to any device.
eSIM now allows consumers to store multiple operator profiles on a device simultaneously, and switch between them remotely, though only one can be used at a time. The specification now extends to a wider range of devices, beyond the single companion device made possible with the first release. Manufacturers and operators can now enable consumers to select the operator of their choice and then securely download that operator’s SIM application to any device.
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Remote provisioning means much smaller devices can be supported. The first products have already come to market, and we can expect to see many further launches in 2018: it is now easier to extend mobile connectivity to devices such as tablets, smart watches, fitness bands, portable health systems and various other devices.
eSIM is the only globally-backed remote SIM specification for consumer devices. This universal approach will grow the Internet of Things by allowing manufacturers to build a new range of products for global deployment based on this common embedded SIM architecture.
Consumer benefits include:
- simpler device setup without the need to insert or replace a SIM card;
- devices that can operate independently of a tethered smartphone, with their own subscriptions;
- a range of new, enhanced mobile-connected device
Apple’s new phones have dual-SIM technology and one of them is an eSIM. An eSIM makes it easier to switch between carriers. But right now only ten countries in the world support it.
eSIM
The countries that offer eSIM support include:- Austria
- Canada,
- Croatia,
- Czech Republic,
- Germany,
- Hungary,
- India,
- Spain,
- UK,
- U.S. Smaller carriers like Sprint and others in the US don’t offer eSIM support yet. This means you’ll need to switch over to T-Mobile, Verizon, or AT&T.
Sprint told PCMag that it will eventually support eSIM technology, but didn’t give a specific timeframe. It’s also worth noting that Sprint and T-Mobile are undergoing plans to merge.
There is a special iPhone model for Chinese users that will have two physical SIM cards instead of an eSIM. Later this year Apple will release an iOS 12 update that will include an eSIM software update.
