News
September 12, 2025
What is eSIM, is it better, and which phones are eSIM only?
As the iPhone Air goes eSIM-only, and some of the best Android phones also drop the SIM card tray, here's a look at the eSM, why it's better than a physical SIM, and a definitive list of every phone that's eSIM-only, and in which countries.
The future of phone connectivity is here, and it's getting smaller and more convenient: the eSIM. With recent trends like the rumored iPhone Air ditching the physical SIM card slot entirely and even some top-tier Android devices following suit, many are asking: what exactly is an eSIM, and is it actually better than the traditional SIM card we’ve known for decades?
An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is essentially a digital SIM card built directly into your phone's hardware. Unlike a physical SIM, which you need to insert and remove, an eSIM is reprogrammable over the air. This means you can switch carriers without needing a new plastic card – a huge advantage for travelers or anyone who frequently changes mobile plans.
So, why are manufacturers embracing this technology? The benefits are numerous. For one, removing the physical SIM tray frees up valuable internal space in the phone, allowing for larger batteries, improved camera components, or more efficient cooling systems. This contributes to sleeker designs and enhanced performance.
Beyond space-saving, eSIMs offer increased security. A physical SIM card can be easily removed if your phone is lost or stolen, potentially allowing unauthorized access to your mobile account. An eSIM, being embedded, is much harder to tamper with.
The convenience factor is another significant advantage. Setting up an eSIM is typically a simple process involving scanning a QR code provided by your carrier. This eliminates the need to wait for a physical SIM card to arrive in the mail or visit a store. You can also store multiple eSIM profiles on your device, making it easy to switch between different phone numbers or data plans for personal and business use.
While the transition to eSIM-only devices is still underway, several phones have already taken the leap, at least in certain regions. The specific models and their availability as eSIM-only vary by country and carrier. The move towards eSIM-only devices is a significant step forward in mobile technology, promising greater flexibility, security, and convenience for users. As more manufacturers adopt this technology, the days of the physical SIM card may soon be numbered.
An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is essentially a digital SIM card built directly into your phone's hardware. Unlike a physical SIM, which you need to insert and remove, an eSIM is reprogrammable over the air. This means you can switch carriers without needing a new plastic card – a huge advantage for travelers or anyone who frequently changes mobile plans.
So, why are manufacturers embracing this technology? The benefits are numerous. For one, removing the physical SIM tray frees up valuable internal space in the phone, allowing for larger batteries, improved camera components, or more efficient cooling systems. This contributes to sleeker designs and enhanced performance.
Beyond space-saving, eSIMs offer increased security. A physical SIM card can be easily removed if your phone is lost or stolen, potentially allowing unauthorized access to your mobile account. An eSIM, being embedded, is much harder to tamper with.
The convenience factor is another significant advantage. Setting up an eSIM is typically a simple process involving scanning a QR code provided by your carrier. This eliminates the need to wait for a physical SIM card to arrive in the mail or visit a store. You can also store multiple eSIM profiles on your device, making it easy to switch between different phone numbers or data plans for personal and business use.
While the transition to eSIM-only devices is still underway, several phones have already taken the leap, at least in certain regions. The specific models and their availability as eSIM-only vary by country and carrier. The move towards eSIM-only devices is a significant step forward in mobile technology, promising greater flexibility, security, and convenience for users. As more manufacturers adopt this technology, the days of the physical SIM card may soon be numbered.
Category:
Technology