From Nano-SIM to eSIM: A Complete Transition Guide for Travelers

SIM card technology has evolved over time, and the move from Nano-SIM to eSIM represents a significant improvement, especially for travelers.

In this article, we'll review the advantages of eSIM, the migration process, and how Olysim can make this transition easier. Get ready to stay connected on your adventures!

What is a SIM?

A SIM card (Subscriber Identity Module) is a chip that contains a mobile network operator's data and settings. It is physically inserted into a phone and allows it to connect to mobile networks.

As for these cards, the biggest evolution they have undergone since their creation lies in their physical size and data storage capacity:

The first model of the traditional physical SIM is the largest of all, measuring 85.6 mm long and 53.98 mm wide.

Then came the Mini-SIM, which was smaller (25 mm x 15 mm).

It later evolved into the MicroSIM (15 mm x 12 mm)

Finally, the Nano-SIM, which is the most recent and has the greatest storage capacity (12.3 mm x 8.8 mm).

While most current devices use Nano-SIM, many carriers issue their SIM cards that are adaptable from Mini-SIM to Nano-SIM by trimming the plastic surrounding the chip. This avoids compatibility issues.

Another feature, and the main functional difference with eSIMs, is that a physical SIM can store data from a single operator; while an eSIM services for UK supports several different profiles.

So what is a Nano-SIM?

The Nano-SIM is the most modern version of the physical SIM card. Aside from the physical dimensions of its predecessors, it has a storage capacity of up to 512 KB, compared to 16 KB on the first version.

In terms of functionality, there have been no significant changes since the original model. Basically, it stores network operator and user identification data on the network.

Nano-SIM vs eSIM

One of the main advantages of the eSIM is its convenience. Unlike the Nano-SIM, which requires a physical card that you must insert into your device, the eSIM is integrated into the device and can be activated via a QR code or an app.

This means you can store profiles from different carriers and change your data plan without having to wait for a new SIM card to be sent to you, which is especially useful during international travel.

This ability to easily choose different plans means you can choose the plan that best suits your current needs.

If you're traveling internationally across several countries, you can purchase a local plan for each country, or a regional plan with coverage in all of them. Alternatively, if you're a frequent traveler, a global plan may be the best option for you. And all this with the convenience of having your profiles stored seamlessly on your device.

Space saving and better design

Another benefit of the eSIM for UK is the space it frees up on your device. While nanotechnology has significantly reduced the size of physical cards, a nano-SIM still takes up physical space, while an eSIM is a virtual chip.

This technology allows smartphone manufacturers to create increasingly thinner and lighter devices, resulting in greater convenience for travelers who often carry multiple devices.

The short-term trend is for physical SIMs to disappear completely. Apple was even a pioneer, launching the iPhone 14 in the United States in 2022 without a SIM card slot , becoming the first device with only an eSIM.

Step-by-step migration process

If all of this sounds complex or overly technical, we have good news for you, because it's much simpler than it seems. If you're looking to get ahead of the change that's already arrived and want to migrate to the new technology to take advantage of all its benefits, keep reading.

Check your device's compatibility

Before you begin the process of migrating from Nano-SIM to eSIM, make sure your device supports this technology . Most phones released in recent years, such as the iPhone XS and later, as well as several Android models, support eSIM. You can check this information on the manufacturer's website or in the user manual.

Install and activate your eSIM

Once you've verified compatibility, the next step is to activate your eSIM for UK. To do this, you'll first need an eSIM data plan, which you can purchase through a provider like Olysim, from the iOS or Android app , or from the website .

Next, go to your device's settings and follow the instructions to add a new data plan . In just a few steps, your data plan will be ready.

How Olysim makes the transition to eSIM easier

Olysim offers a wide variety of eSIM data plans to suit travelers' needs. You can choose between short- and long-term plans, with data ranging from 2GB to 20GB, allowing you to select the option that best suits your travel needs.

Plus, plans are accessible and easy to manage from the Olysim app, further simplifying the migration process.

Olysim also stands out for offering 24/7 technical support, 365 days a year , to answer any questions you may have. Whether you need help with activation or advice on how to best use your data plan abroad, the Olysim team is available to assist you.