eSIM
eSIM is a built-in digital SIM card, a microchip on the motherboard of a smartphone that replaces a traditional plastic carrier. It allows you to remotely download and use tariffs of different mobile operators without visiting a communication shop and inserting a physical card.
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What is eSIM in simple words
eSIM (embedded SIM, “build-in SIM”) is a microchip embedded in the motherboard of a smartphone or another gadget that replaces a physical plastic SIM card. It performs the same functions but works entirely in digital form.
Instead of inserting a piece of plastic, you download a mobile operator profile onto the eSIM chip. Usually this is done by scanning a QR code or through the mobile operator's branded application. The whole process takes a few minutes and does not require visiting a communication shop.
According to analytical companies, by 2027 more than 70% of all smartphones will use eSIM, and by 2030 physical SIM cards may disappear completely. Apple has already released iPhone models without a physical SIM card slot in the US, and other manufacturers are following this trend.
In Russia, eSIM is supported by all major operators: MTS, MegaFon, Beeline, T2 (formerly Tele2), Yota, SberMobile. Read about how to configure mobile networks and connect eSIM in the article Infrastructure.
How eSIM works
eSIM is a chip that is soldered into the device motherboard. You can download several operator profiles onto it (usually up to 5-10, depending on the device model). 1-2 profiles can be active simultaneously.
The eSIM activation process looks like this:
- You choose a tariff from an operator that supports eSIM.
- The operator sends you a QR code or link for activation.
- You scan the QR code with your phone camera or follow the link.
- The operator profile is downloaded to the eSIM chip, and the number is activated.
Important: activating eSIM requires an internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile internet, if you already have an active SIM). Read about how mobile networks and wireless technologies work in the article Wireless networks.
Advantages of eSIM
- Convenience of connection: You can set up, pay for and activate a tariff fully online in a couple of minutes, without visiting a communication shop.
- Ideal for travel: It allows you to buy a local tariff of the desired country in advance (for example, through services like Airalo, Holafly, Drimsim) and stay connected immediately after arrival.
- Security: A virtual card cannot be physically stolen and inserted into another phone. If the gadget is lost, the eSIM profile can be remotely blocked.
- Multiple numbers: Most modern smartphones can store up to 5-10 profiles and quickly switch between them in the settings.
- Compactness: The absence of a SIM slot allows devices to be made thinner, lighter and better protected from moisture and dust.
Disadvantages and risks of eSIM
- Device binding: You cannot quickly take out the card and insert it into another phone if the main device breaks down or runs out of charge. Replacing a smartphone requires either scanning a new QR code or contacting the operator.
- Need for internet to activate: Loading an eSIM profile onto a phone requires a stable Wi-Fi or mobile internet connection. You cannot activate it from scratch in a remote area.
- Difficulties when traveling: In some countries, local operators have not yet implemented eSIM, and you will not be able to buy a local SIM card “at a kiosk”. You will have to look for travel services in advance or overpay for roaming.
- Recovery problems: If the phone is broken or lost, transferring the number to a new device often requires a personal visit to the operator's office or a long conversation with its support to issue a new QR code.
How to connect eSIM
On Android
Go to “Settings” → “Connections” (or “Network & Internet”) → “SIM card manager” → “Add eSIM” → scan the QR code from the operator or enter the data manually. Follow the on-screen instructions.
On iPhone
Go to “Settings” → “Cellular” → “Add eSIM” → scan the QR code from the operator or select the operator from the supported list. Confirm the action and wait for activation.
When first connecting eSIM, a device reboot may be required. Read about how to configure mobile networks and manage connections in the article Infrastructure.
Frequently asked questions
What is eSIM in simple words?
eSIM is a virtual SIM card. It is built into the phone and does not require a plastic card. You connect a number through the internet — scan a QR code or install it through the operator's application. It is like an electronic version of a regular SIM that cannot be lost or broken. Read about how mobile networks work in the article Wireless networks.
How is eSIM different from a regular SIM card?
A regular SIM is a plastic card that can be taken out and moved to another phone. eSIM is a chip soldered into the phone. It cannot be taken out. eSIM is more convenient: you can connect numbers online, store several profiles, travel without changing cards. The downside is that it is harder to transfer a number to another phone. Read about network configuration in the article Infrastructure.
How to connect eSIM on a phone?
On Android: “Settings” → “Connections” → “SIM card manager” → “Add eSIM” → scan the QR code. On iPhone: “Settings” → “Cellular” → “Add eSIM” → scan the QR code. The QR code is issued by the operator when you order eSIM. An internet connection is needed for activation. Read more about configuration in the article Infrastructure.
What is the downside of eSIM?
The main downside is the binding to a specific device. You cannot simply move the card to another phone. If the phone breaks or is lost, you need to contact the operator for a new QR code. Also, activating eSIM requires the internet. In some countries, eSIM support is still limited. Read about choosing devices in the article IMEI.
Which phones support eSIM?
eSIM is supported by all iPhones from XS/XR and newer, all Google Pixel from 3 and newer, all Samsung Galaxy S20/S21/S22/S23/S24 and newer, many Xiaomi models (13, 14 and newer), Honor, Huawei, Oppo. Enter the command *#06# — if the list contains EID, the phone supports eSIM. Read about checking devices in the article IMEI.
Can I use eSIM in Russia?
Yes, eSIM works legally in Russia. All major operators (MTS, MegaFon, Beeline, T2, Yota, SberMobile) support eSIM. You can connect a new number or transfer an existing one from a physical SIM to eSIM. Activation requires a passport or identity confirmation through State Services. Read about network configuration in the article Infrastructure.
What will happen to a physical SIM card if I switch to eSIM?
When switching to eSIM, the physical SIM card stops working — the number is transferred to the built-in chip. You can throw away the physical card or keep it in case you need to switch back. Some operators allow you to have a physical SIM and eSIM with different numbers on one phone at the same time. Read about configuring home networks in the article Home networks.
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