FAQs

In layman’s terms, eSIM is a digital SIM. It has the same function as the plastic SIM card, but it is physically integrated into the device — i.e., it cannot be removed from the device and replaced with another SIM. It’s activated remotely which allows operators to move their entire customer journey online.

Contrary to a plastic SIM card, eSIM does not come with operator profile data pre-installed in the device. In order to connect to the operator’s network, a customer must be provisioned their SIM remotely. They need to download a SIM profile from their operator of choice and activate it on their device. The process can take as little as one tap and less than 60 seconds for the profile to activate.

An eSIM profile is the information about the operator that is required for the identification and authentication of the SIM card with a mobile network. The operator profile is pre-programmed directly onto a physical SIM and cannot be removed. In the case of eSIMs, it comes in a digital version and must be downloaded by the user onto their device. iPhones can hold multiple profiles at the same time and the user can use them interchangeably.

Traditional SIM is built on Universal Integrated Circuit Card (UICC) technology, just like bank cards. The UICC is a physically secure computing chip that can be used across multiple vertical sectors including mobile telecommunications. However, most devices can only host one UICC card (some devices can hold two).

eUICC, or embedded UICC, is a hardware component that allows users to provision operator profiles remotely. And it can hold multiple operator profiles simultaneously.

eUICC is significantly smaller than the smallest SIM card – the nano-SIM. It does not need the space required for the SIM tray mechanics. Both features combined save significant and very valuable space for devices OEMs (original equipment manufacturers)

eSIM and eUICC are usually used interchangeably. But there is a difference between the two. Confusion arises when people assume it is the eSIM that has remote provisioning capabilities. That’s however not the case. eUICC is the chip that hosts the profile that can be provisioned remotely by the operator.

QR code-based activation

After purchasing a mobile subscription from an operator of choice, the customer is provided with a QR code (usually via email). This method, however, requires 2 screens to complete the activation. One screen to open the QR code and one to scan it and download and activate the profile.

In-app eSIM activation

In this case, the eSIM activation takes place in the operator’s self-care mobile app. Activation can be adopted as part of the overall digital customer onboarding journey. It only takes a tap of one button.