iPhone 17 eSIM: A New Era of SIM-Free Connectivity

Apple’s iPhone 17 series introduces notable changes with its shift towards eSIM-only functionality in select countries, while the iPhone Air becomes the company’s thinnest and first globally eSIM-only device. We are now moving towards a future where there will be no physical SIM cards, but only eSIMs. But what’s E-SIM? How does it work? What are its pros and cons? These are some common questions in the minds of iPhone owners. But don’t worry, in this blog, we are going to answer how the iPhone 17 eSIM works and everything about it. Let’s get started. 

What is the iPhone 17 eSIM and How Does It Work?

Apple has just launched the iPhone, and the thing is that it’s a game-changer. It’s the world’s most advanced smartphone with so many new features.. 

Apple has made iPhone 17 keeping in mind two things: portability and improved functionality. The phone comes with a brand new A19 Pro processor to power the device. 

Talking about eSIM, as its name suggests, it’s a digital SIM. It is directly embedded in the smartphone. Unlike physical SIMs, for this, you need to download carrier profiles in your mobile’s settings. 

This technology uses remote provisioning, which allows carriers to send a profile directly to your mobile phone. This happens through QR codes and carrier apps. Sometimes it is through an automated setup process. 

This change helps to serve many purposes. Also, this is something the iPhone 17 eSIM-only model has showcased till now. Apple was preparing for this shift for a long time. Using the SEED approach makes the transition seamless as the new iPhone 17 eSIM is going to become the standard. 

Why Apple ditched physical SIM?

Apple is going to remove physical SIM slots from all its smartphones starting with the iPhone 14. The tech giant has made it compulsory to train employees for eSIM starting from September 5 at all Apple stores to remove physical SIM card slots. This training is being held in the 27 EU countries, including France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands. This training, accessible via Apple’s SEED app used globally by Apple Store and reseller staff, hints that the eSIM-only transition could extend beyond Europe. However, the transition may not be universal. Reports indicate that certain markets, such as China, may retain physical SIM slots due to regulatory resistance to eSIM adoption.

Key Features and Benefits of iPhone 17 eSIM Only

The following are the various benefits of eSIM in the iPhone 17 :

1. Effortless travel

The eSIM in the new iPhone has changed the way people used to travel. Imagine you land in New Zealand, and you immediately get access to local data. Seems cool, right? Well, this is possible with the new eSIM in iPhone 17. Also, when you have to switch between multiple carriers, it’s easy to do more than ever. The eSIM in this iPhone makes SIM-free connectivity seamless and smooth. There are so many eSIM apps that let you use this eSIM. This is now giving access to local carriers easily, which wasn’t possible earlier. 

2. Breaking digital barriers

Many countries have restricted internet policies that do not allow outsiders to access roaming services easily. Countries like China, where some particular applications or websites may be blocked due to restrictions. Here, eSIM lets you get the local roaming services. By connecting with international eSIM providers, users can get access to content or services which was otherwise restricted in their home countries. 

3. Economic advantages

You must have spent a good amount to buy the iPhone 17; now you deserve some relief. The eSIM in the iPhone 17 costs you nothing at all. Also, the data plans are very affordable with the iPhone 17 eSIM. You don’t have to go for expensive roaming and can easily enjoy SIM-free connectivity at a lower cost. You can choose from a wide range of carriers without extra charges, which lets you enjoy an internet connection and not worry about cost. 

4. Flexibility 

It makes SIM-free connectivity simple and hassle-free. Wherever you go, you can simply activate the local plan without removing the home SIM. This lets you keep your mobile number active while using local data. 

How to Activate and Set Up iPhone 17 eSIM?

You can activate your eSIM on iPhone through the following method:.

Transfer your phone number from your previous iPhone using eSIM Quick Transfer

If your network provider supports eSIM Quick Transfer, you can transfer the SIM from your previous iPhone to your new iPhone without contacting them. With some network providers, you can also convert your current physical SIM card to an eSIM.

Before you begin, make sure:

• You’ve signed in to both devices with your Apple Account

• Your previous iPhone is unlocked with the device passcode

• Both devices are nearby with Bluetooth turned on

• Both iPhones are on iOS 18.4 or later

During setup of your new iPhone, if you’re asked to transfer your phone number, follow the onscreen instructions to transfer your physical SIM or eSIM. 

You can also transfer your phone number after setup with the following steps:

1. Firstly, open your iPhone, then tap on Settings. After that, open mobile data, and under that, you will see the option to Set up mobile data or Add eSIM.

2. Choose a mobile plan to transfer from another iPhone. If you can’t see a list of numbers, tap Transfer From Nearby iPhone.

3. Follow the instructions on your previous iPhone. To confirm, tap Transfer or, if asked for a verification code, enter the code that’s displayed on your new iPhone.

4. Wait for the mobile plan to be activated on your new iPhone. Your previous SIM will be deactivated when the mobile plan on your new iPhone is activated.

5. If a banner appears on your new iPhone that says Finish Setting Up Your Network Provider’s Mobile Plan, tap it. You will be redirected to your network provider’s web page to transfer your eSIM. If you need help, contact your network provider.

How to Set Up eSIM on iPhone 17 Air

Setting up eSIM in iPhone 17 Air follows Apple’s established procedures for seamless SIM-free connectivity. 

The Quick Transfer feature enables wireless migration of SIM or eSIM profiles from previous iPhones during initial setup, eliminating the need for carrier contact or store visits.

Most carriers provide QR codes for eSIM activation on the iPhone 17. Now scan the QR code with your iPhone’s camera, and it will automatically download the carrier profile. Make sure you have an internet connection, as it is required for this process. This will take a couple of minutes to complete. 

Alternative activation methods include carrier apps or manual detail entry, providing additional control when QR codes are unavailable or problematic for your eSIM in iPhone 17 setup.

Supported Countries and Countries for iPhone 17 eSIM

The iPhone 17 eSIM is available in various countries. The following are some of the popular countries where you can use the iPhone 17 eSIM:

1. United States
2. U.S Virgin Islands
3. Saudi Arabia
4. United Arab Emirates
5. Bahrain
6. Qatar
7. Oman
8. Kuwait
9. Mexico
10. Japan
11. Guam
12. Canada

Along with the countries, many carriers provide SIM-free connectivity in the iPhone 17 eSIM, which are as follows:

1. Airtel

2. Reliance Jio

3. Vi

Pros and Cons of iPhone 17 eSIM 

Before you start using eSIM, it’s important to understand it in all aspects. Below, you can see the pros and cons of eSIM in your new iPhone:

Pros 

• It stores multiple cellular profiles, and hence it works seamlessly across the world.
• No specific slot is required, unlike SIM cards. Hence, it is ideal for space-constrained IoT devices.
• There is no possibility of losing the card as it is tied to the device itself.
• It is possible to have eSIM controllable over the air. Hence, it is easy to use for network operators.
• It provides the same level of security as a removable SIM card. It also supports the integrity of the billing process during roaming scenarios.
• eSIM enables simple management of subscriptions and connections. Hence, end users do not have to manage multiple SIM cards.

Cons 

• When a mobile phone breaks, it is easy to transfer data to the new phone in case of a SIM card. This is not possible in eSIM devices, and users need to rely on the cloud to retrieve the data, such as messages, contacts, and other useful information.
• It is problematic for users who do not wish to be tracked when they use eSIM. It is easy for SIM card users as they can remove the SIM cards, and hence it is not possible to be tracked by network operators.
• Users who like to use different mobile phones it is easy for them with SIM cards to do so. It is not possible with an eSIM card as it is embedded in the motherboard of the mobile phone.
• There is a possibility of hacking eSIM card data from cloud hosting.
• It is a challenge to be implemented worldwide by network operators to provide seamless operations.

Traveling with iPhone 17 eSIM: Is It Easier or Harder? 

Travelling with an iPhone 17 eSIM is actually easier. Here is how it can benefit you:

• eSIM is more secure than a physical SIM because it can’t be removed if your iPhone is lost or stolen.
• With eSIM, you don’t need to obtain, carry, or swap physical SIM cards (which can also be lost), or wait for them to arrive by post.
• You can have two eSIMs active at the same time on supported iPhone models. For example, you can use one eSIM for your home phone number and another eSIM for the place you’re visiting.
• You can store eight or more eSIMs and swap which of your stored eSIMs are active, simply by changing your selections in Settings. 

Before you travel, check if your network provider includes international roaming on select data plans without additional fees. Some countries and regions might be included in your home plan. Alternatively, your network provider may offer affordable travel passes or plans that you can purchase ahead of time to use when you arrive at your destination. International roaming with an eSIM works just like roaming with a physical SIM.

Common Problems for iPhone 17 eSIM Users

Along with the benefits, the eSIM in iPhone 17 has some setbacks too. Here are some challenges you might face while using it: 

• Not all regions support connectivity 

Not all mobile operators fully support eSIM activation. In rural or developing regions, travelers may find fewer options and higher roaming reliance.

• Roaming Costs are Applicable

Switching to eSIM doesn’t magically eliminate roaming fees. Unless you purchase local or global eSIM data plans, sticking with your home carrier abroad can be costly.

• Technical Barriers Exist

While scanning a QR code sounds simple, not all travelers are comfortable navigating eSIM menus. This learning curve might frustrate older users or first-time iPhone buyers.

• Travel Emergencies 

If your eSIM profile fails to activate and there’s no Wi-Fi nearby, resolving the issue becomes trickier compared to just inserting a backup SIM.

• Difficulty in swapping devices 

With an eSIM, you need to activate it on your new phone and deactivate it from the old one each time you switch devices. However, for this, traditional SIMs are more convenient if you have to frequently swap phones. Also, if your eSIM-compatible device becomes inoperable, you might face issues accessing eSIM, leaving you without service until the problem is solved. 

Conclusion

Rolling out eSIM by the world’s biggest tech giant signals something. It’s that the world will now be moving forward with digital resources and not physical equipment. With the iPhone 17 eSIM-only, the message is crystal clear: no physical SIM slots. Now you don’t need to carry a physical SIM anymore or worry about losing it. You got an upgrade with iPhone 17 eSIM. It provides better connectivity, flexibility, instant activation, and improved security. With baztel’s coverage, iPhone users can take advantage of eSIM wherever they go. Visit our website now and get the iPhone 17 eSIM.