Getting Started with eSIM

eSIM (embedded SIM) technology is here to stay and for frequent travellers, its flexibility, convenience, and security is helping to make connecting to mobile networks on your device easier.

In this blog we are going to delve into what an eSIM is, its key benefits, devices that support this new technology and how to set them upon your device.

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital SIM that allows you to activate a cellular plan without having to use a physical SIM card. Instead of swapping out SIM cards to change networks or plans, you can simply download a profile from your carrier.

Key Benefits of eSIM:

·       Convenience: No need to handle tiny SIM cards.

·       Flexibility: Easily switch between carriers and plans without physical SIM cards.

·       Space-Saving: Free up physical space in devices for other components or features.

·       Multi-Profile Capability: Store multiple profiles on a single eSIM, useful for frequent travellers.

Devices That Support eSIM

Before diving into the setup, ensure your device supports eSIM technology. Here's a list of some popular devices that have the technology required to enable eSIM.

·       Smartphones: iPhone XS and later, Google Pixel 3 and later, Samsung Galaxy S20 and later.

·       Tablets: iPad Pro 11-inch and later, iPad Air (3rd generation) and later.

·       Wearables: Apple Watch Series 3 and later, Samsung Galaxy Watch.

Setting Up eSIM

1. Check Compatibility

First, confirm that your device is eSIM-compatible and that your carrier supports eSIM activation. Most major carriers now offer eSIM services, but it's always good to verify.

2. Obtain an eSIM Activation Code

Contact your carrier to get an eSIM activation code, often provided as a QR code. This code is essential for downloading and activating your eSIM profile.

3. Activate eSIM on Your Device

For US iPhones:

1. Go to Settings > Cellular.

2. Tap Add Cellular Plan.

3. Use your iPhone to scan the QR code provided by your carrier.

4. Follow the prompts to complete the setup.

For UK iPhones:

1. Go to Settings > Mobile Service

2. Add Esim

3. Scan the QR Code provided by your carrier with your iPhone camera.

4. Follow the prompts to complete the set up.

For Android:

1. Open Settings

2. Tap Network & Internet > Mobile Network > Advanced > Carrier

3. Select Add Carrier

4. Scan the QR code or enter the activation code manually

5. Follow the on-screen instructions to finish the setup

Manage Your eSIM Profiles

One of the benefits of eSIM is that you can switch profiles through your device settings. This includes switching between different profiles, adding new ones, or removing old ones.

On US iPhone:

·       Go to: Settings > Cellular

·       Select the plan you want to manage.

·       Choose options to switch, remove, or label your plans.

On UK iPhone:

·       Go to: Settings > Mobile Service

·       Select the plan you want to manage.

·       Choose options to switch, remove or label your plans.

On Android:

·       Open Settings

·       Tap Network & Internet > Mobile Network

·       Select the eSIM profile you want to manage.

Three eSIM Top Tips:

·       Make sure the profile you're switching to is correctly set up and activated.

·       Ensure your device is updated to the latest software version and try re-scanning the QR code to avoid any issues with activation.

·       Label your eSIM profiles to make switching between your profiles easier.

·       If you are experiencing any connectivity issues, restart your device and check your network settings.

For more insights, tips, and updates on eSIM technology, check out our other blogs on eSIM!

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