A Subscriber Identity Module or SIM card is a thumbnail-sized chip that links your phone to mobile carriers and enables services like calling, internet usage, etc. Like other technological developments, mobile SIMs have evolved over the years. The once stamp-sized SIMs developed into micro and nano sims and have only been getting smaller. The latest innovation is embedding SIMs in smart devices via a concept called eSIM. Let us understand what is eSIM and how does an eSIM card work.
What is eSIM card?
eSIM is an electronic SIM card fixed onto your mobile phone’s motherboard. It is an alternative to a physical SIM card for better functionality. Cell phone manufacturers use eSIM technology to reclaim the space in phones for other devices. eSIM enables convenient and easy connections to your mobile networks. You need not fiddle with a physical SIM card when you switch phones and risk losing it.
How does eSIM work?
eSIM has the same functionality as a traditional SIM. It lets you connect to your mobile network carrier and access your subscribed data plans. Since eSIM gets installed in your smart device, like your phone or smartwatch, you can set it up through device settings. The settings differ based on the operating system. Hence, the eSim activation procedure for Android and iOS works differently. Below are the steps.
eSIM in Android
- Select ‘Connections’ in settings.
- Open the ‘Sim Card Manager’ option and choose ‘Add Mobile Plan’.
- Select the ‘add e-Sim’ option QR Code.
- Scan the QR code you receive from your mobile number for the chosen service provider.
- Follow the instructions for connecting and confirming the eSIM connection to your device.
eSIM in iOS
- Go to settings and select ‘Mobile data.’
- Tap on ‘Add Data Plan’.
- Scan the QR code sent by your service provider and choose the data plan option.
- Select your preferred data plan and finalise the activation process.
- The eSIM will get fully configured.
As is apparent, the eSim activation process is similar, but options differ based on your device’s software. Also, the instructions to follow after scanning the QR code depend on your service provider. However, the process is simplified by the on-screen cues flashing on your mobile phone throughout the process of setting up the eSIM.
How to get an eSIM card?
A crucial thing to know about how to get eSIM is that you can activate it only if your service provider offers eSIM facilities and your smartphone is eSIM enabled. Currently, select devices support eSIMs in India. These include Google Pixel, Samsung, Huawei, Motorola, iPhone 12, iPhone 13, iPhone SE, etc.
Final Note: If you have a smartphone that enables eSIM usage, you can subscribe to a telecom provider offering eSIM plans. Vi is one such service provider offering eSIM facilities. At Vi, we understand the need to adapt to digital innovation and offer eSIM compatibility. Use our QR code to activate eSIM in eSIM supporting smartphones or smartwatches to access our mobile network conveniently.
Start your digital SIM usage journey with Vi eSIM! Click here to activate your eSIM.
