As we move further into the digital age, our works and lives are getting internet-oriented in a more diversified way. This trend is especially apparent in the mobile industry, where technology is constantly evolving to make our lives easier. With that note, Global System for Mobile Communications (GSMA) had been working on the software-based SIM since 2010. Eventually, it became real, and Samsung Gear S2 Classic 3G smartwatch implemented eSIM in 2016. So, what is eSIM, and how does it work? Let’s get to know everything about eSIM.
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM that allows you to connect to a wireless network without having to use a physical SIM card. This means that you can switch providers without having to go through the hassle of buying a new SIM card and switching your number. eSIM also allows you to have more than one network in your phone, but you can use one network at a time.
The eSIM is ten times smaller than any ordinary SIM card. As you already know, this SIM doesn’t require to be inserted into the phone like the traditional SIM. eSIM is a built-in feature of the latest smartphone. Hence, eSIM will not work with any phone, and you will need to know if your handset has an eSIM feature or not. It is a kind of hardware of the phone, and it is not possible to take it out of the phone.
Latest phones such as iPhone 11 series and later, Samsung fold and flip phone, Samsung 20 and 21 series, Google Pixel, Huawei’s latest models, and more. Further, eSIM is also used in fitness tracking devices, Apple Watches, iPads, etc. Although it is part of the phone’s hardware, it is not activated until its profile is downloaded to the phone from the operator network.
How does an eSIM work?
eSIM is basically a microchip that is programmable and is a built-in feature in eSIM supported devices. That means you can change the information inside if you want. However, the traditional SIM cards are not programmable. That means no one can change everything inside if they want to. So, we only have to use the services of one company with a regular sim card.
On the other hand, eSIMs work by connecting to a cellular network provider through an eSIM enabled device. The eSIM-enabled device will then have access to the provider’s network and services.
A regular SIM card usually contains some important information or data. Such as user ID, location, phone number, user authorization data, personal security key, saved contact number, and text message. We cannot change these data if we want. We can only save or delete contact numbers and text messages. The rest of the information is permanently saved in the SIM card, which can never be deleted. And due to this, we are bound to use the network of that SIM company.
But since eSIM is programmable, a user can change all the information if he wants. It’s a lot like saving, deleting, or deleting something from the phone’s memory. Therefore, an eSIM card allows you to profile users on different networks.
Pros and cons eSIM
While eSIM technology seems groundbreaking, it has cons too. Let’s get to know the pros and cons of eSIM.
Pros
eSIM technology offers a number of advantages over traditional SIM cards. Perhaps the most notable advantage is that eSIMs can be remotely activated and deactivated, which means that users can switch carriers without having to go to a physical store and swap out SIM cards. This can be a great convenience, especially when traveling because you won’t have to worry about losing your SIM card or having to find a local carrier to get a new one. An eSIM can store the data of five virtual sims.
eSIMs also offer increased security, as they are not as easily lost or stolen as traditional SIM cards. eSIM is also more difficult to hack or counterfeit than traditional SIM cards. Additionally, eSIM technology allows for more flexible plans, as users can add or delete data packages without having to visit a physical store.
The smaller size of E-SIMs allows for more space inside the phone, which can be used by smartphone manufacturers to increase battery size or add new features. Additionally, fewer holes in the phone mean that it is less likely to become clogged with dust.
The use of e-SIM in small devices such as smartwatches can provide a convenient and efficient experience. Apple and Samsung have already implemented eSIM in different watch series.
Finally, eSIMs are more environmentally friendly, as they do not require the use of physical cards.
Cons
Although using eSIM may seem simple at first, the process can be complex. In the case of an ordinary SIM card, if the phone does not work for any reason, the user can usually retrieve important information by removing the SIM and inserting it into another phone. On the other hand, if the phone is damaged, most of your information is also lost unless it is saved online.
If you are concerned about your movement being monitored, it’s easy to remove your SIM card. With eSIM, there is no such advantage, but the upside is that your phone can’t be wiped clean if it is stolen.
eSIM supported phones are not widely available, and they are not cheap either. Hence, you may need to spend more to access the eSIM service.
How to use eSIM in Bangladesh?
Currently, Grameen Phone (GP) offers an eSIM service in Bangladeshi. You can buy GP eSIM online and store. It is expected that eventually, other operators will also introduce eSIM in Bangladesh.
When you buy an eSIM from an operator, they will give you a QR code. Scanning this code, your phone will save the operator’s identity in the eSIM database in your set. Then the eSIM will be installed on your phone. Your mobile number in that eSIM will be activated on your phone.
Final Words
Recognized by GSME, ETSI, Global Platform, and SIM Alliance, e-SIM will be the connectivity of the future and will play an important role in the future of the telecom sector. Apple, Google, Huawei, and Windows are incorporating e-SIM into their ecosystems, and millions of people around the world are already taking advantage of it.
Source: United News of Bangladesh