eSIM Cards
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You can easily convert your SIM to an eSIM in just a few steps, allowing you to enjoy the flexibility of embedded SIM cards on your device. The steps vary depending on your phone, but here’s a simple guide to switching from SIM to eSIM on both Android and iPhone
Both iPhones and Androids allow you to convert your SIM to an eSIM, but only if you have a compatible model. In this guide, we’ll go over the reasons to convert your SIM, the pros and cons of eSIMs, and how to do this process on your device.
First, let’s see if you can convert your physical SIM card to an eSIM.
Table of Contents
Can You Convert a Physical SIM Card to an eSIM?
Yes, you can usually convert a physical SIM card to an eSIM whether you’re using an Android device or an iPhone. This means you can switch to a digital SIM card without needing to handle and switch physical SIMs.
SIM cards connect your device to the wireless network, allowing you to make calls, send texts, and use mobile data. Traditionally, when traveling to different countries, you might need to switch SIM cards to stay connected, which means taking out the physical card and replacing it with a new one. With an eSIM, you can avoid this hassle because it works digitally.
These days, most modern smartphones are eSIM-compatible devices. but you might need to adjust your settings to activate it. Furthermore, if your phone is carrier-locked, you might need to contact your carrier to unlock it before using an eSIM.
The process of unlocking and converting to an eSIM varies by device. Here’s what you need to know.
Does Converting from SIM to eSIM Cost Any Money?
Converting from a SIM to an eSIM might incur a small fee depending on your carrier. The exact process varies depending on the device (e.g. iPhone, Samsung, Huawei, etc.) and the carrier. You won’t have to pay to convert to an eSIM unless your device is carrier-locked.
When you purchase a new smartphone, it may or may not come with an eSIM already equipped. For example, all new iPhones sold in the U.S. are eSIM-only. Meanwhile, other devices may come with a physical SIM despite being eSIM-compatible.
In most cases, you can switch to an eSIM for free and start browsing as soon as it’s installed. However, if your phone is carrier-locked, your carrier may charge you to unlock the phone. The price can include paying off the phone or contract, or it may be as little as $10 for an unlocking fee.
Now that we know the basics about what an eSIM card is and what to expect when we switch to one, let’s get down to the actual process of converting your phone from a regular SIM card to a digital one.
How to Convert a Physical SIM to an eSIM on an iPhone
Converting a physical SIM to an eSIM on an iPhone is really straightforward. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be able to travel with ease and enjoy the safety that having a digital SIM card entails.
1. Select Settings, then Cellular
2. Tap Convert to eSIM
Your device might not have that option, which means that your network provider doesn’t support this option. So, if you don’t see this available, move on to step 3.
3. Tap Convert Cellular Plan
4. Next, tap Convert to eSIM
5. Wait a moment as the eSIM is activated
6. Remove your traditional SIM card
It really is as simple as that. You are good to go!
How to Convert a Physical SIM to an eSIM on Android
Just as with an iPhone, the way to switch from a regular to a digital SIM card for your Android device takes just a few simple steps, which are as follows:
1. Select Settings
2. Tap Connections
3. Select SIM Manager
4. Choose the SIM card to convert
5. Choose Convert to eSIM
Now, you should see a pop-up message.
6. Tap Convert to eSIM
The process will end with your eSIM profile being downloaded to your phone, which takes less than 5 minutes.
How to Convert a Physical SIM to an eSIM on Samsung Phones
Conveniently enough, the instructions for converting your SIM to an eSIM card on a Samsung phone is the same as it is for any Android device. Simply follow the steps below to convert, even on the latest Samsung device.
1. Select Settings
2. Tap Connections
3. Select SIM Manager
4. Choose the SIM card to convert
5. Choose Convert to eSIM
6. Wait for the pop-up message.
7. Tap Convert to eSIM
Pros and Cons of eSIM Over Physical SIM
When it comes to eSIM vs SIM, it makes sense to take a look at the pros and cons associated with each before deciding what will work best for you. Before you rush into changing your SIM, check out the pros and cons below.
Pros of eSIM over SIM
With an eSIM card, you can seamlessly move between different carrier networks. This can be especially helpful for people who travel a lot. Without digital SIM cards, you would have to carry physical SIM cards and manually switch them out when you change networks.
They also allow you to use multiple SIM cards on the same device. You can have both a physical and digital SIM card on a single device. Then there are even phones that allow for two SIM cards on the same device.
With no physical components, it is more space-saving and many say it is also a much more secure way to manage moving between different mobile networks.
Cons of eSIM over SIM
One of the biggest downsides to an eSIM when compared to a regular SIM card is that it is digital, which means it is connected to your physical device. So, for example, when you want to upgrade your phone, moving your digital SIM card to the new device isn’t as easy as changing a physical one.
Another downside is for people who are concerned with privacy. When you have a SIM card in your phone, your movements can, theoretically, be tracked. With an eSIM card, you cannot physically remove it from your phone; if you want to get rid of an eSIM, you’ll have to uninstall it and go through the whole process of adding it again later.
Can You Use eSIM and SIM cards together?
Yes, you can. It is often a process called dual SIM technology. It makes it easy for you to have separate lines on the same phone. You can use your physical SIM to connect to your local home network whenever you are home and rely on the eSIM when you are traveling.
You will have to choose which SIM card you want to use for data, text, calls, etc, but this can easily be done from the settings menu.
FAQ
Are eSIMs expensive?
Not at all. In fact, for a lot of people, having an eSIM is cheaper and more convenient than having multiple SIM cards.
Do eSIMs work everywhere?
While they work in many places in the world, no eSIM works everywhere. You will need to look at the service regions when you are choosing an eSIM to make sure you choose the provider that covers where you plan on traveling.
Are eSIMs as safe as SIM cards?
Yes. In fact, many people think they are more secure than carrying physical SIM cards when you travel. A briefcase or purse containing your other SIM cards can easily be stolen, but an eSIM is part of your device.
Can You Convert a Physical SIM card into an eSIM?
No. A traditional SIM card is a physical piece of technology whereas an eSIM is a piece of digital software.
Does it Cost any Money or Fees to Convert SIM into eSIM?
The eSIM and subsequent service costs, yes, but for most people, there are no fees associated with moving from a traditional SIM card to an eSIM. The fees and charges associated with the eSIM will depend on the company you choose and the plan you select.
Is Your Phone Compatible with eSIM?
Most newer phones, including iPhone 11 and newer, have eSIM capability. The easiest way to find out if your device supports eSIM is by going to the “about phone” section of your settings. Here, you can find out if your phone is compatible.
