[eSIM Quick Guide] How to Use eSIM? What Are the Pros and Cons? | eSIM Phone Activation Process and Travel Guide (Includes eSIM vs. SIM Card Price Comparison in Popular Travel Destinations)

eSIM phones appeared in Hong Kong many years ago, but in recent years, few licensed phones support them. Apple has fully adopted the new eSIM technology. iPhone Air, once again set off the eSIM craze. In fact, eSIM can completely abandon the SIM card slot, making the body more slim. But what exactly is an eSIM? Kwiksure analyzes the pros and cons of eSIM, compares it to traditional SIM cards, and explains the activation process and travel tips for mobile phones.

What is an eSIM?

eSIM (embedded-SIM) is also known as a virtual SIM card because it lacks a physical card. It can be thought of as a physical SIM card embedded in a phone. To activate it, users don't need to insert a SIM card into the card slot; simply scan a QR code and follow a few simple steps. This is a convenient and time-saving option for users whose phones don't have dual card slots.

eSIM advantages

1. No need to change the SIM card

When activating and switching eSIM, you only need to press the buttons on the phone, and there is no need to pull out the phone card slot to replace the SIM card.

2. No worries about losing

Since eSIM does not have a physical SIM card, there is no risk of loss, and you don’t need to carry an extra SIM card pin when traveling.

3. High security

The eSIM is embedded in the phone's circuit board, making it difficult to steal and copy. It has a higher level of security and the risk of data leakage is extremely low.

4. Convenient purchase

Travel eSIMs can be easily purchased online, eliminating the need to travel to purchase a physical card or wait for it to be shipped, making travel more convenient and time-saving.

eSIM Disadvantages

1. Not all devices support eSIM

Not all phone models support eSIM functionality, so please confirm before purchasing.

2. Resetting is required when replacing or resetting the phone

The QR code for activating eSIM can only be used once. If the user changes the phone, he or she will need to go to the telecom operator in person to apply for the eSIM QR code again and pay additional fees.

eSIM vs. physical SIM card

How do I check if my phone supports eSIM?

To use eSIM, you must first confirm whether your mobile device supports this function. Here’s how to check:

1. Enter *#06# on your phone’s keyboard. If your phone supports eSIM, you will see the phone’s eSIM unique identification code (EID), which is a 15 or 16-digit electronic serial number.
2. Go to "Settings" → "About Phone" → "Status Information" to check if the EID field is displayed. If the phone supports eSIM, the EID field will be displayed in the menu.

In addition, users of different mobile phone brands can also use this to check whether their device supports eSIM:

• iPhone users
• "Settings" → "Mobile Data" → "Add eSIM" or "Add Mobile Plan"
• Samsung users
• "Settings" → "Connections" → "SIM Manager" → Check if there is a "Add eSIM" option
• Xiaomi users
• "Settings" → "Mobile Network" → "eSIM Card Settings"

How do I enable eSIM?

After purchasing an eSIM from a telecom operator or online platform, you will receive a unique QR Code to activate the eSIM. Users can scan the QR code with their mobile phone and follow simple steps to complete the setup. Each eSIM QR code can only be scanned once. If scanned repeatedly, an error notification will appear. Since activating eSIM requires a network connection, if it is for travel purposes, users can add eSIM when their phone is connected to the Internet on the day they want to use it.

iPhone users can refer to the following steps:

1. Go to "Settings" → "Mobile Services" → select "Add eSIM"
2. Use the built-in camera to scan the eSIM QR code or open the QR code directly from the photo album. If you choose to enter the QR code manually, click "Manually enter details" and paste the "SM-DP+ address" and "activation code"
3. After entering the confirmation code, you will be redirected to the next page. Click "Join the action plan" to activate the eSIM.
4. Users can customize the eSIM name for easier identification and management, and can set the eSIM as a default number and update contact information

Android users can refer to the following steps:

1. Go to "Settings" → "Network & Internet" → select "Download SIM card instead?"
2. Use the built-in camera to scan the eSIM QR code or enter the activation code → "Turn on"
3. Go to "Settings" → "Network & Internet" → change the newly added eSIM to "Off", and then turn it back to "On" when you arrive at your destination.

Comparing eSIM and physical SIM card prices in popular tourist destinations

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an eSIM and a physical SIM card?

An eSIM doesn't require a physical card. To use it, scan a unique QR code and set it up on your phone. Unlike a physical SIM card, there's no need to remove and insert it into the device's slot, eliminating the risk of loss or damage. An eSIM can be purchased online and used instantly, eliminating the need to wait for a physical card. However, not all phones support eSIM, so it's important to check before purchasing.

Can I use an eSIM and a physical SIM card at the same time?

If your phone has Dual SIM functionality, you can use both an eSIM and a physical SIM card at the same time. You can check whether your phone has Dual SIM functionality and manage your SIM cards in your phone's settings.