What is eSIM Tech and Why is it Revolutionary?

The eSIM market has exploded. Projected to reach $17 billion by 2031, an estimated 99% of smartwatches, 73% of laptops, and 47% of smartphones will support eSIMs. The latest data also shows there are 483 million eSIM smartphone connections. That does compare to 1,016 million traditional SIM smartphone connections, but eSIMs are only really now gaining popularity, especially for travel.

Despite that, there’s still a massive part of the population that has never used one and doesn’t understand how they work. To cover the gray areas, we’ve created this guide to eSIM technology and why it’s so revolutionary. Read on to find out more.

What is eSIM Technology?

eSIM stands for embedded SIM. Instead of the SIM that you have to annoyingly insert into the side of your cell phone using a tiny SIM ejector tool that you can barely hold between your fingers (and when you can, the SIM falls out of the holder before you put it into the phone), it’s a SIM you download.

This virtual SIM is essentially built into your device when you download it digitally through a link or sometimes by using a QR code. And they still work the same as traditional physical SIMs. You activate the SIM by installing it in your device and selecting it as the primary SIM. Once active, it automatically connects you to the local network so that you can make calls, send messages, and use mobile data as normal.

Most smartphones compatible with eSIMs let you store multiple eSIM profiles.

How eSIMs Changed Travel

eSIMs really started to gain popularity because of travel. Standard networks are beginning to offer data packages using eSIMs, or at least giving customers the option of an eSIM, but travel is what propelled the technology to be revolutionary.

Before eSIMs, you’d have to see whether your network provider gave you any data in the country you were traveling to or buy a bolt-on. And, most of the time, we’d get it wrong and have hefty roaming charges. Now, an Holafly eSIM travel package gives you unlimited data and enough calls and texts that you’ll never get close to using them all.

There’s no second-guessing, no trying to find a connection or a cafe with WiFi; it’s an instant connection to global 4G and 5G networks. Travel is so much easier with eSIM technology.

How to Use an eSIM

Using an eSIM is easy. Once you’ve found the perfect package for you for the destination you’re traveling to, your eSIM provider will either send you a downloadable link, QR code, or a digital instruction manual including the step-by-step process of installing the eSIM.

It never takes long. You will typically have to go to your network settings and click ‘add eSIM’, or something similar, and scan the QR code with your camera. If it’s a digital download link, you’ll see the specific instructions.

However you do it, it’s simple. The eSIM downloads, and you can then select it as the primary or secondary SIM option. A travel eSIM will only typically work in the destination country when connected to its local networks. With that, your normal SIM will still work when you’re traveling.

eSIM technology is revolutionary. Traveling is easier, SIM installation is easier – everything about them is easier. You’d be surprised at the list of countries you can get an eSIM for now!