The Tech Behind the Scenes: How Does an eSIM Work

Subscriber Identification Module (SIM) cards have proven to be a main pillar that has substantially supported and promoted communication technologies around the world for decades. However, eSIM technology is gradually replacing the simple tiny SIM cards that you carry around on your cell phones. eSIMs are entirely integrated SIM cards that can be accessed virtually, as opposed to normal SIM cards that can be withdrawn from the device. Given the growing popularity of the technology, it appears conceivable that eSIMs may soon replace traditional SIM cards.  After reading this, it's natural to wonder, "What is an eSIM card?" What distinguishes it from the traditional SIM card? "How does an eSIM work?" Let's go find out!

What Is An eSIM Card?

Different from the conventional SIM cards, eSIMs stand out for being integrated directly into the device’s hardware build when the cell phones are manufactured. This process negates the need for consumers to embed the physical SIM cards, which are removable in nature. This concept streamlines the process by transforming the nature of Sims Cards in general. It makes it virtually possible to be provisioned and modified without the need for any physical intervention. Nevertheless, this is a highly innovative approach which makes it easier to manage cellular plans digitally. 

How Does An eSIM Work Differently From A Physical Sim? 

The evolution from traditional SIM cards to eSIMs is a remarkable shift when it comes to how people perceive and interact with the developed network connectivity. Electronic SIM cards or eSIM cards operate differently when compared to regular SIM cards. So, how does eSIM work? Embedded into your phone (literally soldered to your phone's motherboard), eSIMs are not removable. However, the distinction between these two dynamic sources of connectivity is not just physical but also functional. With an electronic SIM card, switching the network becomes as easy as scanning a QR code. eSIMs can allow you to configure your SIM card and connect to the local network. Electronic SIM cards can also make switching between multiple accounts easier. Let’s understand in detail how does an eSIM work and how it evolved into what it is today. 

How Does An eSIM Work? 

It is extremely important to understand how does eSIM work to deconstruct its functionality better. How does eSIM work is quite different from the functionality of traditional SIMs. When the device is being manufactured, an eSIM is securely embedded or integrated into the hardware’s architecture. The process of switching networks while activating a new cellular plan includes the user receiving QR codes from whichever network provider they have opted for. The QR code is nothing else but a key to enable the eSIM and roll into operation. This is more efficient as it involves zero hardware or physical intervention, which highly reduces the complexities and intricacies that are associated while the consumers try to embed the traditional SIM cards into their devices to initiate the activation process. 

It is extremely important to understand how does eSIM work to deconstruct its functionality better. How does eSIM work is quite different from the functionality of traditional SIMs. When the device is being manufactured, an eSIM is securely embedded or integrated into the hardware’s architecture. The process of switching networks while activating a new cellular plan includes the user receiving QR codes from whichever network provider they have opted for.

eSIM Card Operators

Apple has been one of the leading manufacturers to start incorporating eSIM cards into their devices. Even though the eSIM technology still has yet to take over the physical SIM cards completely, Apple has been one of the most remarkable eSIM operators, using a combination of SIM card slots and embedded eSIMs to provide a dual SIM experience to users. As one of the major eSIM operators, Apple has been operating in major countries, including India, the US, Canada, most European countries, Qatar, Kuwait, Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Thailand, UAE, etc.

For example, consider Yesim. This is a leading global eSIM service provider dedicated to helping students minimize expenses on roaming charges while traveling. Leveraging cutting-edge eSIM technology, Yesim offers a diverse range of products tailored to suit various needs. Whether you are looking for data packages specific to certain countries or seeking seamless connectivity across multiple destinations, Yesim has you covered. Their global coverage spans over 160 countries, ensuring uninterrupted access wherever your journey takes you. To meet the needs of those requiring a local phone number in the United States, Canada, or other destinations, Yesim.app provides virtual cell numbers, perfect for app registrations or staying connected via WhatsApp. Furthermore, students can benefit from a special promo code, "Student3", which grants a welcome bonus of 3 euros, enabling you to save even more than anticipated.

The Benefits of eSIM Card

eSIMs may look a little complex since most of us are more familiar with removable physical SIM cards. But in reality, once you understand how does eSIM work, you will find that it’s more beneficial to use an eSIM than a physical one. 

1. eSIMs offer unparalleled advantages, making them more convenient to use.
2. No need for physical manipulation of cards with eSIMs.
3. Benefits include the ease of changing lines or providers without removing the SIM.
4. No risk of losing or stealing the SIM since it remains in the device.
5. The activation process for eSIMs is easy, providing superior connectivity in new countries.
6. One significant advantage of non-removable eSIMs is the minimal risk of loss or misplacement.
7. Enhanced security and convenience contribute to a seamless user experience.

Apply For An eSIM Card 

1. The service provider sends a QR code via email or website 
2. Get the instructions online according to your provider
3. Keep your device unlocked
4. Activate your eSIM card
5. Once you've gotten your hands on the QR code sent by the provider, here is how you activate an eSIM.

From Physical SIM to eSIM Card: Making The Transition! 

If you are an international student living independently, dealing with removable SIMs can be risky and hassling. The delicate design, as well as the sheer risk of changing SIMs while being on the move, can be stressful. This is where the convenience of an eSIM comes in. With the SIM already embedded, you can easily make sure that you don't lose your SIM card while also being able to switch between networks and operators easily. If you are a user of Apple products or Google Pixel, you can transfer the information from your physical SIM card to your virtual SIM card while making the transition. eSIM cards are a popular choice among international students since they also help them avoid roaming charges and the hassle of finding the right data plan. Being connected with your loved ones and beating away the loneliness without burning a hole in your wallet becomes easier with an eSIM card. 

Activating On Devices

In order to transition from traditional SIM cards, users must comprehend how does esim work, and this begins with obtaining a QR code from their preferred network provider. iOS device users can activate their eSIM by scanning this code with their camera, which will then provide the necessary configuration information and prompt the user to pursue on-screen directives for activation. Android device users, on the other hand, will need to venture into their Mobile Network settings and engage in a comparable approach, often by scanning QR codes from their carrier.

Activating eSIM Card On Ios Devices

Step 1: Open your mobile camera
Step 2: Scan your QR code 
Step 3: Open the Cellular Plan Detection notification
Step 4: Follow the instructions displayed 
Step 5: Confirm the addition of the network

Activating eSIM Card On Android Devices: 

Here is how you can activate an eSIM card on an Android device:

Step 1: Go to the Connections menu on your Network & Internet setting
Step 2: Open Mobile Network 
Step 3: Add a Mobile plan or Download your eSIM card 
Step 4: Follow the instructions
Step 5: Scan the code when required 
Step 6: Cost of eSIM Vs. physical SIM

How does eSIM work when it comes to its pricing model? As possible as it might sound, virtual SIM cards don't cost more than physical SIM cards. When it comes to eSIMs, there are no manufacturing costs to cover. There are no packing expenses for the providers as well. Thus, it doesn't make sense for the providers to charge you more for an eSIM card than a physical SIM card. With the knowledge of how do eSIMs work, it is safe to say that there are advantages of eSIMs for international students since it’s easier and more hassle-free to use. With easy switchability between your lines and carriers, eSIM cards can help you use your smartphone in the best and most efficient ways possible. We hope the blog answered the question “how does an eSIM work?” and helped you gain perspective on this telecommunication technology! Toodles!