The eSIM is an alternative to the conventional SIM card. We will explain the difference between the SIM cards and which devices you can use the function with. In addition to newer smartphones such as the iPhone 14, smartwatches and the like can also be equipped with an eSIM.
This means eSIM
In contrast to a normal SIM card, an eSIM is permanently installed in a device. It cannot therefore be replaced. The “e” in eSIM comes from the English word “embedded”.
- An eSIM uses the same specifications as regular SIM cards. Therefore, they are compatible with each other and it makes no difference which SIM type you use.
- The key advantage of an eSIM, however, is that the SIM chip can be rewritten by your provider. So if you have signed a new contract, you no longer have to wait for your new SIM card.
- The eSIM also makes sense for smartphone manufacturers. Since the eSIM is built into the device, there is no longer a need to install error-prone card mechanisms.
- Most current devices are eSIM-capable. These include all current iPhones from the XS onwards – including the iPhone 14 – and Samsung's flagship series from the Samsung Galaxy S20 onwards. Google also offers the eSIM function on devices from the Google Pixel 3 onwards.
- Furthermore, more and more smartwatches are compatible with the eSIM. For Apple, this includes all models from the Apple Watch Series 3 onwards, and for Samsung, the models from the Samsung Galaxy Watch onwards. But Oppo, Xiaomi and Huawei also support the eSIM function on some smartwatches.
- You can get an eSIM from all three major contract providers, Telekom, O2 and Vodafone. But smaller providers such as Congstar, 1&1 and Drillisch also offer the eSIM.
- In order to use the eSIM, you have to sign a contract with most providers. After signing, you will receive a conventional SIM card, which you can then convert into an eSIM. One exception is Telekom, where you can also get an eSIM for prepaid cards.
e.g
Under a e.g is an electronic SIM card that functions similarly to a physical card for identification.
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