What is eSIM?
If we ask now, ‘What is E SIM’, then the appropriate answer to this would probably be – this is the latest form of SIM technology. If we talk about the full form of E SIM, then it is ‘embedded SIM’ or ‘Embedded Subscriber Identification Module’.
Then what is different here from the old type of SIM?
Whereas the old SIM i.e. Mini, Micro or Nano SIM is a physical form, E SIM is a virtual form.
This means that the old type of SIM had to be placed in the SIM tray of the mobile after purchasing it. Unlike E SIM, which is virtual and is already present in the form of a small chip inside the mobile. This chip itself has the storage capacity where the mobile number and related information can be stored.
This means that you will not need to place the SIM in the tray in any way.
Benefits of eSIM :
Some of the main benefits of eSIM can be as follows:
You can easily change network operators through eSIM. As its activation is very quick, now there is no need to wait for SIM delivery and activation.
As we know that eSIM is a virtual SIM, there is no need for SIM tray here. That means your mobile can be made more compact or the tray space can be used for some other purpose.
E SIM is considered more secure because it is impossible for the user to transfer the SIM from one mobile to another. If there is a need to transfer the SIM, it can be done only digitally.
Being a virtual SIM, it is also impossible to steal the eSIM.
You can keep many eSIM profiles in one mobile but only one profile can be used at a time.
Disadvantages of eSIM :
Amid so many advantages, eSIM has some disadvantages too which may need some improvement.
- As the old physical SIM is still dominant, many mobile phones may become outdated with the advent of E SIM.
- eSIM can be used only on one mobile. Unlike physical SIM, you cannot remove it from one mobile and use it in another mobile as per your need.
- eSIM compatible mobiles in India
- By the way, the facility of eSIM is currently available in selected premium range smartphones in India. Some major models are:
- BrandModelsApple
- iPhone XR, XS, XS Max, 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max, SE (2nd generation), 12 mini, 12, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
- Samsung
Operators providing eSIM facility in India :
All three mobile network providers in India – Jio, Airtel and Vodafone-Idea, provide eSIM facility. You can apply for a new eSIM on these networks, change an old physical SIM to an eSIM or change one eSIM to another.
How to activate Jio eSIM :
You will have to visit a Jio store or Reliance Digital with your eSIM compatible mobile.
After filling a CAF form, the information provided by you will be verified.
After successful verification, a QR code will be generated by the POS (Point of Sale) machine.
Finally, your eSIM will be activated after scanning the code from the mobile.