What Is an eSIM and How Does It Work (Complete Guide)

Have you ever been in situations where you’ve lost your SIM card, had trouble inserting it into your phone, or waited for a new one to be delivered?

These are the same physical SIM card-related hiccups many of us face.

Nowadays, many smartphones, such as iPhones and some Google Pixel models, have built-in capabilities that obviate the need for a physical SIM card.

This is a game changer in terms of changing between mobile operators or plans directly from your phone settings without having to manually change SIM cards.

In this article, we'll explore what is eSIM, how does eSIM work, and the benefits it offers.

Whether you're considering making the switch or just curious about this innovation.

This blog will provide you with all the essential information in a straightforward manner.

What is an eSIM?

Many people ask, “What’s an eSIM?” It’s a small chip that’s already built into your phone. Unlike a traditional SIM card that you throw in a slot, eSIM does its job without any physical insertion. You simply scan a QR code or follow a few steps on your phone, and your mobile plan is live.

eSIM stands for “embedded subscriber identity module.” It works just like a normal SIM card, connecting your phone to the mobile network, but without opening your SIM tray or changing any card.

The useful part?

You can use more than one number or mobile plan on the same phone. This is especially helpful if you travel often or use separate numbers for personal and work use. Switching between plans becomes much easier.

eSIM isn’t just for phones. It also works on tablets, smartwatches, some laptops, and even cars. Most modern devices with eSIM support can store multiple plans, so you can switch whenever needed, without visiting any shop.

How to Get an eSIM

The first thing to do is make sure your phone can read an eSIM. This is a feature that nearly all new phones come with, including the newest iPhones and many Android devices.

If your phone supports it, you can buy an eSIM plan online. The international plans can be for both domestic use and international travel.

You’ll receive a QR code or a set of simple instructions (they’ll usually arrive via email or within the app) once you’ve made the purchase.

You don’t have to visit a store or wait for a physical delivery. You can sign up and start using the eSIM in a matter of minutes, straight from your phone.

It’s quick, easy, and most useful when you are on the move or require more than one mobile network. And if you're still unsure about making the switch, many providers offer a free eSIM trial so you can test the service before committing to a full plan.

How to Set Up an eSIM

Setting up your eSIM is quick and doesn’t need a physical SIM card.

Here’s how you can do it based on your device.

For iPhone Users

If you have an iPhone XS or any newer model that supports eSIM, you can do this:

1. First, open the Settings on your iPhone.
2. Then go to Mobile Data or Cellular.
3. Tap on Add Mobile Data Plan.
4. Now, scan the QR code you received from your eSIM provider.
5. If prompted, insert a code they might have given you.
6. Decide whether this should be your primary number or for data only.

Once you’ve completed it, your eSIM will be all set. You can call, use the internet, and send messages, just like with a full-fat SIM.

For Android Users

Most new Android phones, like the Google Pixel 4 or newer and many Samsung Galaxy models, also support eSIM. Here's what to do:

1. Go to your phone’s Settings.
2. Tap on Network & Internet (or Connections on Samsung phones).
3. Select Mobile Network.
4. Touch Add Carrier or Download SIM.
5. Scan the QR or enter the details manually.
6. Follow the prompts on the screen, and then click Yes.

Your eSIM is now activated and ready to use in a few minutes.

How Does It Work?

So now, you already know what eSIM is, how to get one, and how to set it up on your phone.

Let’s now see how it works, step by step.

1. Download the App

First, you download the provider’s app on your phone. With this app, you can view plans, track your data usage, and activate your eSIM.

Setting up and using your eSIM is all done exclusively through the app, and everything is easy to understand and follow.

2. Buy Data

After you install the app, you have the option of selecting your data plan. Such plans are commonly organised by country/region/global coverage. It enables you to find any amount of data you require, for any amount of time you desire: a day’s worth while on a short break, or over a longer period.

Your eSIM plan is activated immediately after payment.

3. Install eSIM

Once you’ve purchased the plan, install the eSIM by scanning a QR code or following a few easy instructions in the app. It takes just 1–2 minutes. Your phone will then download the eSIM profile and connect to the mobile network automatically.

You can begin to use your mobile data now. The majority of eSIMs are for data only, but you can use apps like WhatsApp or FaceTime for calls and messages.

If your phone is a dual SIM device, you can leave one slot empty and use the eSIM for data while keeping your regular SIM in for calls.

You may share data with a hotspot, and some providers enable you to transfer data between subscribers or roll over unused data into the coming months.

Benefits of Using an eSIM

Now that we've understood what an is eSIM and how eSIMs work.

Let's look at the advantages of using an eSIM:

Avoid Roaming Charges While Travelling

One of the most useful things about using an eSIM is avoiding high roaming fees. Instead of sticking to your home network abroad, you can activate a local data plan and stay connected without spending too much.

Use Multiple Mobile Plans on One Phone

An eSIM allows you to store more than one mobile plan or phone number on one device.

If you want two numbers: One for work, the other for personal use; different plans for different areas, simply switching between them is effortless with no physical change of numbers.

Choose Plans That Fit Your Needs

A bonus of eSIM: No need to unnecessarily purchase long-term plans. If you’re only abroad for a week, you can get a plan for that duration. It enables you to save money and only pay for what you use.

Save Unused Data with Rollover

If you don’t use all your data, you don’t lose it. Some eSIM plans carry forward unused data when you purchase a new plan. This way, your balance stays active for a longer time without waste.

Simple and Instant Setup

Setting up an eSIM doesn’t take much effort. As soon as you purchase a plan, it gets sent digitally to your phone. You can install it through an app or scan a QR code; no need to wait for delivery or visit a store.

Keep Using Your Regular Number

You can also still make calls and send messages using apps such as WhatsApp, FaceTime, and WeChat, even when you are using a data-only eSIM. You can continue to connect with everyone using the same number that you already have.

Share Your Internet Easily

With eSIM, you can use Mobile data with other devices using a personal hotspot. It’s done on phones, on laptops, and on tablets, taking care of the new connections on all your gadgets.

No Speed Limits or Daily Caps

Many eSIM plans offer full-speed internet without daily restrictions. This means you can use your data without worrying about the speed getting reduced after a certain limit.

Built-In Security and Safety

Because the eSIM resides within your phone, there’s no chance of losing or having it stolen, as with a traditional SIM card. You also won’t have to keep SIM tools with you (or lose a tiny chip on the go).

More Space and Less Waste

Phone makers won’t have to include a physical SIM slot on their phones, either, and that means they can use that space to add better features like larger batteries. And by not using plastic SIM cards whenever you switch networks, you help to save electronics from being prematurely thrown away.

To Sum Up

In this article, we covered everything you need to know about eSIM.

We started with the common problems people face with regular SIM cards, then explained what eSIM is in a simple way. After that, we saw how to get it, how to set it up, and then how it works step by step using apps and QR codes.

We also discussed how an eSIM can reduce costs when you travel, support multiple numbers on a single phone, enable faster setup, and reduce waste.

Hope that cleared your doubts and you understood how eSIM can make your mobile existence easy. If you’re considering making the switch to eSIM, the above should help you learn how it works and why it makes sense.