eSIM Technology Explained: How It Works, Benefits, and Security in 2025

Aug 29, 2025

25 min read

Peter

Your SIM card is no longer a tiny plastic chip. It’s turning invisible.

eSIM Technology is built directly into your phone no tray, no slot, no physical swapping. It lets you switch networks, activate new plans, and connect internationally, all from your screen.

And in 2025, it’s everywhere.

Travellers use it to skip roaming charges. Remote workers rely on it to stay online in any country. Even regular users are switching to enjoy multiple numbers without carrying two phones.

Still confused? You’re not alone.

Many people are unsure how eSIM actually works, whether their phone supports it, or if it’s secure enough to trust. Some worry about losing their number or facing issues while switching devices. You can read more on what is an eSIM card and how does it work in our beginner’s guide.

This blog will simplify it all. No jargon. No tech overload.

You’ll learn:

How eSIM Technology works in real life
Which devices support it in 2025
Its key benefits, limitations, and safety features
And how to use it smartly for travel or work

If you’re thinking of ditching your physical SIM, this guide will help you decide clearly, practically, and with examples.

Quick Answer: eSIM Technology in 2025

If you’re short on time, here’s the simple version:

eSIM Technology is a digital version of the SIM card. It’s built inside your phone, tablet, or smartwatch. You don’t insert anything, you just scan a QR code or download a plan from an app.

Once it’s active, it works just like a physical SIM. You get mobile data, you can call and text, and you stay connected even while travelling.

What makes eSIM Technology popular in 2025?

No need to visit stores or wait for delivery
You can store multiple plans on one phone
Great for international travel, business, and dual SIM use
More secure than public SIM trays (harder to swap or steal)

If you’re someone who travels often or wants to keep a personal and work number in one device eSIM Technology gives you full control, without the plastic.

How eSIM Technology Works: From Chip to Connection

Unlike traditional SIM cards that need to be inserted into your phone, eSIM Technology is built directly into your device’s motherboard. It’s called an eUICC, an embedded Universal Integrated Circuit Card.

Think of it like this: instead of carrying around a physical key to unlock a network, the key is already inside your phone. You just need permission to use it.

That permission comes in the form of a digital profile which is what you get when you scan a QR code or use a mobile app to activate your plan.

Let’s break down how the whole process works.

Inside the eSIM Chip: What Your Phone Stores

Each eSIM chip stores three core things:

EID (Embedded ID): It’s like your device’s fingerprint.
ICCID: This is your SIM number, unique to each plan.
IMSI: This links you to your mobile network.

These are securely stored, and unlike physical SIMs, they can’t be easily cloned or pulled out.

Remote Provisioning: How Your Plan Gets Loaded

This is where eSIM Technology shines. The entire process is remote.

Instead of shipping a plastic SIM, your provider uses secure systems called:

SM-DP+: The server that holds your eSIM plan
SM-DS: The directory that tells your phone where to fetch the plan

Once you scan a QR code or tap “Download eSIM,” your phone talks to these servers and installs the plan instantly.

No courier, no delay, no need to remove anything.

How Activation Happens (3 Common Methods)

There are three easy ways people activate their eSIM plan in 2025:

1. QR Code Scan

This is still the most popular method. You open your phone’s mobile settings, scan the code, and it installs the plan directly.

2. Carrier App Setup

Some providers have apps (like Airalo or Nomad). You log in, choose a plan, and activate it without needing a code.

3. Manual Code Entry

Useful when scanning fails. You enter details like the SM-DP+ address and activation code manually. You can learn more in our setup guide on how to set up eSIM on iPhone and Android.

Storing Multiple Plans in One Phone

With eSIM Technology, you’re not stuck with one SIM.

Most phones can store 5–8 eSIM profiles. You can:

Keep a home number + a travel plan
Switch between personal and work lines
Disable one and keep the other active

Switching takes seconds just tap and select.

eSIM Technology Compatibility in 2025: Phones, Wearables, Laptops

Not every device can run an eSIM. So before you buy a plan, you must check if your phone or gadget supports eSIM Technology.

The good news? Most major brands now include eSIM support by default. From iPhones to Samsung to smartwatches 2025 is the year where eSIM becomes the new normal.

Let’s look at device-wise compatibility.

Phone Brands That Support eSIM Technology

Apple iPhones

Every iPhone from iPhone XR, XS, and newer supports eSIM. In fact, the latest iPhone models in the U.S. come without a SIM slot; they only run on eSIM. You can find the full list in Apple’s official support page.

Samsung Phones

Samsung added eSIM support starting from the Galaxy S20 series.
It’s now standard across the S series, Z Fold, Z Flip, and some A models.

Just check:

Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager
If “Add eSIM” shows up your phone supports it.

Google Pixel

Pixel 3 and above support eSIM.
Models like Pixel 6 and Pixel 8 Pro support dual active eSIM too great for dual SIM users.

Others (OnePlus, Xiaomi, Motorola)

Brands like OnePlus and Xiaomi are catching up. Some global variants now support eSIM, but it’s not available in every region. Always double-check with your seller.

eSIM Technology on Wearables and Tablets

Smartwatches and tablets are major users of eSIM Technology in 2025. They help you stay connected without needing your phone nearby.

Apple Watch

Cellular models (Series 3 and above) support eSIM. Set up is done via the Watch app on your iPhone.

Samsung Galaxy Watch

Models like Galaxy Watch 4 LTE come with eSIM support. Setup is through the Galaxy Wearable app.

iPads and Android Tablets

iPad Pro, iPad Air, and some Galaxy Tabs now offer eSIM slots. You’ll see “Add Data Plan” in mobile settings if eSIM is supported.

Laptops with eSIM Technology

Yes, even laptops use eSIM now.

Devices like:

Microsoft Surface Pro LTE
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon
HP Elite Dragonfly
Samsung Galaxy Book 5G

…all support eSIM-based mobile connectivity.

Apple Macs still don’t have native eSIM support. In 2025, you’ll need a Wi-Fi hotspot instead.

How to Check eSIM Technology Support on Your Device

It’s easy.

Method 1: Check in Settings

iPhone: Go to Settings → Mobile Data → Add eSIM
Android: Settings → Connections → SIM Manager → Add eSIM

If you see an “Add eSIM” or “Download SIM” option your device is compatible.

Method 2: Check with IMEI

Dial *#06# on your phone. If you see EID listed along with your IMEI your device has eSIM.

eSIM Technology Setup Guides: iPhone, Android, Tablets

Setting up eSIM Technology is simpler than most people think. You don’t need any tools, wires, or SIM ejector pins. If your device supports eSIM, the whole process can be done in under 5 minutes.

All you need is:

A phone or device that supports eSIM
A stable internet connection
A QR code or activation details from your provider

Let’s go step by step for each device type.

iPhone eSIM Technology Setup

Before You Begin

Your iPhone must be iPhone XR or newer, and it should not be carrier-locked.

Steps to Install eSIM

Go to Settings > Mobile Data > Add eSIM
Tap Use QR Code
Scan the code provided by your eSIM provider
Wait for download, then tap Continue
Choose which SIM is for data, calls, or both

Once activated, your plan will appear under Mobile Plans. You can rename it (e.g., Travel or Work) and manage dual SIM settings easily.

Android eSIM Technology Setup

Devices That Support eSIM

Popular Android phones like:

Samsung Galaxy S20 and above
Google Pixel 3 and above
Motorola Edge, Oppo Find X, and newer OnePlus models

Setup Steps

Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager
Tap Add eSIM or Download eSIM
Choose Scan QR Code or Use Activation Code
Wait for installation and press Confirm
Select primary SIM for data/calls in preferences

If the network doesn’t work immediately, check if APN settings need to be updated manually. Some providers send this automatically.

Tablets and Wearables

iPads (Pro, Air, Mini – cellular versions)

Open Settings > Mobile Data
Tap Add a New Plan
Use QR or enter details manually
Confirm and activate

Samsung Tablets

The process is similar to phones going to the SIM manager under network settings.

Smartwatches (Apple & Samsung LTE Models)

Use your phone’s Watch app
Go to Mobile Data > Set up Mobile Service
Follow carrier prompts to sync plan

Most smartwatch eSIMs are linked to your main number, so you may need to call the provider to activate.

eSIM Technology Plans and Use Cases: Travel, Business, IoT

Once your phone supports eSIM Technology, the next step is picking the right plan. There’s no one-size-fits-all different users have different needs.

Some want cheap data for a 3-day trip.
Others need global plans that last months.
Businesses want to manage teams across regions.

Let’s look at the common use cases in 2025.

Travel with eSIM Technology

This is where eSIM shines the most.

You can install a local or international data plan even before your flight. No need to find SIM shops, fill forms, or deal with tourist traps at airports.

Types of plans travellers use:

Local eSIMs for one country (e.g., Japan, Italy, USA)
Regional eSIMs (like Europe or Asia) for cross-country trips
Global eSIMs that work in 100+ countries

You can also top up anytime from the provider’s app. Check our latest list of best eSIM plans for frequent travelers if you’re unsure where to start.

eSIM Technology for Business Teams

Managing multiple employees across different locations? eSIM Technology makes that easier.

Instead of shipping physical SIMs to each team member:

You send a QR code or app link
The employee downloads the profile remotely
Admins can control renewals, usage, or deactivate when needed

Some platforms offer centralised dashboards for bulk activations, usage stats, and real-time monitoring useful for remote-first companies.

IoT and M2M Devices Using eSIM Technology

It’s not just phones.

eSIM Technology is now being used in:

Point-of-sale (POS) terminals
GPS trackers
Smart meters and electric vehicles
Delivery drones and logistics systems

Why? Because these machines often move across borders.

A device in Singapore today may be in Dubai tomorrow and eSIM lets it stay connected without physical access.

In fact, eSIM is the base layer for many global IoT systems in 2025.

eSIM Technology Coverage and Network Features: 4G, 5G, VoLTE

Having a valid eSIM plan is one thing, getting good network coverage is another.

In 2025, eSIM Technology supports nearly all standard mobile features: fast data, HD voice calls, Wi-Fi calling, and even 5G. But not every plan delivers the same quality.

Here’s what you need to know before buying.

5G with eSIM Technology

Most eSIM providers now support 5G, but availability still depends on:

Your phone model
The country you’re in
The local partner network

Some eSIMs offer full 5G speed. Others cap speeds under “fair use” policies. So don’t assume 5G just because your phone shows the logo.

Always check if the plan explicitly says 5G included.

Calling Features on eSIM Technology

eSIM isn’t just about data.

Many providers also support:

VoLTE (Voice over LTE): for HD-quality voice calls
Wi-Fi Calling: lets you call over Wi-Fi when mobile signal is poor
Incoming SMS: useful for OTPs and banking apps

Some data-only eSIMs do not support voice/SMS which is fine for travel but not ideal for long-term use.

If calling is important, choose a plan that supports VoLTE and incoming SMS.

Data Speeds, Throttling, and Fair Use

Your speed depends on:

The local network partner
Whether you’re on 4G or 5G
And if the plan has a speed cap

Some providers offer “unlimited” data, but with a soft cap meaning you get full speed till 3–5GB/day, then it slows down.

Always read the fine print.

We’ve covered this in detail here: what are the advantages of eSIM

Benefits of eSIM Technology: Cost, Flexibility, Convenience

Switching to eSIM Technology isn’t just about ditching the plastic. It actually solves real-world problems especially if you travel, work remotely, or manage multiple numbers.

Here’s what makes eSIM worth it in 2025.

Instant Activation, No Waiting

With a traditional SIM, you either go to a store or wait for delivery.

With eSIM Technology, you activate your plan instantly right from your phone.

Just scan a QR code, or install the plan through an app. You’re online within minutes, even before your flight takes off.

No Physical Damage or Loss

Ever dropped your SIM tray? Lost your pin? Damaged your card?

That’s not a problem anymore. eSIM is built into your phone. It can’t be scratched, bent, or misplaced.

Even if your phone restarts or updates your plan stays intact.

More Control and Flexibility

Most phones today can store multiple eSIM profiles. That means:

You can have personal + work numbers in one device
Switch between data providers based on price or speed
Pause, delete, or replace plans anytime

No need to carry two phones or swap SIMs when you travel.

No Hidden Roaming Charges

If you’ve ever used roaming by mistake, you know how painful that bill can be.

With eSIM, you buy a local or regional plan in advance.

You use your own data, at local rates with full transparency.

Check our guide to the best eSIM plans for international travel to see what suits your next trip.

Eco-Friendly and Less Waste

Every plastic SIM adds to global e-waste.

By switching to eSIM Technology, you reduce plastic use and shipping waste.

According to this e-waste report, small electronics like SIMs contribute to over 50 million tonnes of waste yearly.

eSIM is a small step but it matters.

Limits of eSIM Technology: Locks, Transfers, Edge Cases

While eSIM Technology has become more reliable in 2025, it’s not perfect for everyone.

Some users still run into unexpected issues especially when switching devices or dealing with network restrictions.

Here’s what to watch out for.

Carrier Locks and Regional Restrictions

Just because your phone supports eSIM doesn’t mean it’s ready to use.

If your device is carrier-locked, eSIM won’t work with other networks even if you scan a valid QR code. Some countries also block foreign eSIMs unless local KYC is done.

For example, read our blog on does China have eSIM to understand country-specific rules.

eSIM Transfer Is Still Not Seamless

Moving your eSIM from one phone to another isn’t always simple.

Apple allows eSIM transfers between iPhones but only if both are on iOS 16+
Android is improving support, but it’s still buggy across brands
Many eSIMs can’t be reused once deleted, you may need to contact the provider again

That’s why we recommend checking this guide on how to transfer SIM to eSIM.

Older Phones or Limited Models Don’t Support It

If your phone is older than 2018 or a low-cost model, it likely doesn’t support eSIM.
And even if it does, some carriers may block activation on non-whitelisted devices.

Always check compatibility using:

Device settings
EID check via *#06#
Our eSIM compatibility list

Fallback to Physical SIM Still Needed Sometimes

Some banks, payment apps, or government services still expect a physical SIM to verify your identity. Also, in poor network areas, older 2G fallback may work better on physical SIMs.

So if you’re using eSIM for critical things like UPI, international OTPs, or banking keep a backup SIM ready.

How eSIM Technology Protects Your Credentials

Unlike plastic SIMs that can be physically removed or cloned, eSIMs are built into your phone’s hardware. This makes it harder for someone to tamper with your connection.

Your mobile plan is stored in a secure element (eUICC), and every profile download uses encryption based on GSMA standards.

Even if your phone is lost, the eSIM stays locked inside. No one can just pop it out and insert it into another phone.

For a deeper technical read, here’s a trusted NIST publication on SIM security.

Real Risks Users Should Know

That said, social engineering and poor usage can still expose you.

Fake QR Codes

If you scan an eSIM QR code from an unknown source, it could connect your phone to a shady network.

Unsafe Apps

Installing random eSIM apps or buying plans from sketchy websites can lead to phishing or malware.

Public Wi-Fi and Open Networks

eSIM doesn’t protect you from internet-based attacks; you still need a secure Wi-Fi or VPN.

Best Practices for Staying Safe

To keep your eSIM Technology secure in daily use:

Only buy eSIMs from trusted providers or marketplaces
Never share your EID or activation code publicly
Set a PIN code or Face ID to lock your phone
Use a VPN if browsing sensitive data on public networks
If your phone is lost, contact your provider immediately to deactivate the eSIM

You can also read our full guide on eSIM security for practical tips.

What Happens If Your eSIM Phone Is Lost or Stolen?

You can’t remove the eSIM, but that’s actually good.

Just like “Find My iPhone” or “Find My Device,” your network provider can:

Suspend or block your eSIM profile
Prevent misuse of your number or data
Help you transfer the profile once your new phone is ready

Some advanced providers even let you do this through their app.

Rules and KYC for eSIM Technology: Country Differences

You might assume that eSIM works the same everywhere. But in reality, every country has its own rules especially when it comes to KYC (Know Your Customer).

Some places let you buy and activate an eSIM instantly. Others ask for ID verification, local address, or even passport details.

Let’s look at how it works in 2025.

Countries with Strict KYC Rules for eSIM Technology

If you’re visiting or living in any of these places, be ready for extra steps:

India: You must complete full KYC Aadhaar or passport, often in-store.
China: Only local citizens or residents can buy eSIMs with a national ID.
UAE: Emirates ID is mandatory, even for prepaid plans.
Turkey: Requires passport upload for tourists and travellers.

These countries block foreign eSIMs that haven’t gone through verification. That’s why you might see “activation failed” even if the eSIM QR code is correct.

Countries with Easy or No KYC

In contrast, these regions are eSIM-friendly:

Europe (Schengen): Most countries don’t ask for KYC if you’re using data-only travel eSIMs.
USA and Canada: Activation is simple; no ID needed for most short-term plans.
Australia and Japan: Accept digital onboarding via app or email.

That’s why travel eSIM providers focus on these regions: you can activate your plan in under 2 minutes with no paperwork.

You can explore these flexible options in our post on ways the global eSIM makes your travels easier.

Airport Kiosks vs Online Providers

Some users buy eSIMs at the airport. These plans usually require showing a passport, filling a form, and often cost more.

Online providers skip this. You buy the plan on their website or app, receive a QR code, and activate it without an ID.

But again this works best in KYC-relaxed countries.

Tips for Frequent Flyers Using eSIM Technology

If you travel a lot:

Choose providers that offer multi-country or global eSIMs
Stick to countries with relaxed KYC
Carry one physical SIM as backup in KYC-heavy regions
Keep your passport photo ready in case verification is required

eSIM Technology Troubleshooting: Activation, APN, Profile Errors

Even though eSIM Technology is fast and digital, things can still go wrong.

You scan a QR code, but nothing happens. Or you activate the plan but there’s no signal. Sometimes, your data doesn’t work even when the SIM is active.

Don’t worry most of these issues are fixable in 2–3 steps.

Activation Failed: What to Check First

If your phone shows “Unable to Activate eSIM”, try this checklist:

Make sure your phone is unlocked (not carrier-locked)
Turn on Wi-Fi during activation it won’t work without internet
Ensure your phone supports eSIM
Some QR codes expire after use request a fresh one if needed

Still stuck? You might be using an eSIM meant for a different region. Double-check the provider’s instructions.

eSIM Plan Installed but No Network

If the plan shows active but you don’t have signal:

Toggle Airplane Mode ON and OFF
Restart your phone once
Go to Mobile Network Settings → Select the correct network manually
Make sure Data Roaming is ON (yes, even for travel eSIMs)

If that doesn’t work, delete the plan and install it again using the same QR code but do this only if your provider allows re-use.

Data Not Working: Fixing APN Settings

Sometimes, eSIM activation succeeds, but you can’t browse the internet.

That usually means your APN (Access Point Name) settings weren’t set correctly.

Here’s how to fix it:

Go to Settings > Mobile Network > Access Point Names
Add or edit the APN as per the provider’s guide
Save and select the new APN
Restart your phone

If you don’t know what APN to use, check the provider’s FAQ or email support. You can also refer to our quick guide on troubleshooting eSIM issues.

Profile Errors: eSIM Already Installed or Can’t Delete

Sometimes the eSIM shows as active but you can’t remove it or the phone says “eSIM already exists” when you try to re-install.

Here’s what helps:

Go to Settings > SIM Manager / Mobile Data
Tap on the old plan and press Remove or Delete
Restart the phone
Re-scan the QR or try manual activation
On iPhone, go to General > Transfer or Reset to clear network settings if needed

Important: Not all eSIMs can be reused. If you’re unsure, don’t delete the check with support first.

eSIM Technology vs Physical SIM vs App-Based Options: Comparison

By now, you know what eSIM Technology can do. But how does it compare with the SIM you’ve always used? And what about those travel apps that give you temporary phone numbers? Let’s break it down so you can decide what actually fits your use case.

eSIM Technology vs Physical SIM: What’s the Difference?

Feature	eSIM Technology	Physical SIM
Setup	Instant (QR or app)	Manual insertion
Portability	Built into device	Swappable card
Switching Plans	Remote, quick	Needs physical change
SIM Slot	Not needed	Must have one
Risk of Damage	None	Can be lost/damaged
Dual SIM Use	Easy (dual eSIM or 1 eSIM + 1 SIM)	Needs dual-slot phone

Use eSIM if: you want quick setup, dual numbers, and no hardware hassles
Use Physical SIM if: your phone is old, locked, or you rely on local SMS banking

Check this blog for more: physical SIM vs eSIM

eSIM vs App-Based Number Services (Like Google Voice, TextNow, etc.)

App-based options give you a virtual number through internet apps.
But they’re not full mobile connections; they depend on Wi-Fi or mobile data.

Feature	eSIM Technology	App-Based Numbers
Internet Needed to Connect	No (uses mobile signal)	Yes (always)
SMS/OTP Support	Full support	Often blocked by banks
Call Quality	Network-based (clearer)	Depends on app/server
SIM Card	Not needed	Not needed
Phone Number Ownership	Tied to your device & carrier	Tied to app login/email

Use eSIM if: you want reliable data, calling, SMS even abroad

Use App-Based options if: you need a backup number or want to hide your main number

Which One Should You Use?

It depends on what you need:

For travel: go with eSIM Technology. You can set it up before your flight, use it in multiple countries, and get local rates.
For daily use: physical SIMs still work well, especially for older phones or rural networks.
For side usage or anonymous texting: app-based options are fine, but not for banking or secure access.

In most cases, eSIM + Physical SIM combo is the best of both worlds.

Costs and Providers for eSIM Technology: How to Choose

The cost of using eSIM Technology in 2025 depends on where you’re going, how much data you need, and how long you want to stay connected.

Some eSIMs cost just a few dollars. Others come with unlimited plans, but may slow down after a point.

Some providers also offer free eSIM trials with 100–200MB just to test the service. You can check this blog for options: eSIM free trial

How to Pick a Trusted eSIM Provider

Here’s a quick checklist:

Clear pricing and no hidden charges
Real-time delivery of QR code or activation link
App available for top-up, support, and profile management
Works with your phone model and OS
Option to pause, delete, or switch profiles easily
Real reviews on platforms like Trustpilot or Reddit

What to Avoid

Plans that don’t mention speed caps or fair usage
Websites that don’t offer refunds or support
Providers with outdated device compatibility
Plans that can’t be reinstalled or reused

Always test with a smaller data pack if you’re unsure.

Future of eSIM Technology: iSIM and RSP Updates

As more phones go portless, eSIM Technology is becoming the default. But what’s next?

In 2025, the focus is shifting to iSIM, a new evolution of eSIM and improved systems like RSP 2.0, which make switching between networks even smoother.

Let’s look at what’s coming.

What is iSIM and How is it Different?

iSIM stands for Integrated SIM.

While eSIM is a separate chip inside the device, iSIM is built directly into the phone’s processor. That means:

No extra hardware
Lower power usage
Smaller design, more space for other components

iSIM is already being tested in wearables, IoT devices, and some flagship phones. Qualcomm and Thales have even launched the world’s first working iSIM chip. Here’s the announcement.

But don’t worry, iSIM will not replace eSIM immediately. Both will co-exist for a few more years.

RSP 2.0: Faster Switching, More Control

RSP stands for Remote SIM Provisioning, the system that delivers your eSIM plan over the internet.

RSP 2.0 improves on the older version by:

Allowing multiple profiles to be downloaded instantly
Enabling seamless switching without rebooting the phone
Giving users more control through improved UI in settings

This means you won’t need to delete and reinstall plans as often switching will feel more like toggling between Wi-Fi networks.

eSIM-Only Phones Are Becoming Normal

Apple removed the SIM tray from iPhone models in the U.S. Other brands like Samsung and Google are expected to do the same for certain markets. That means future phones will only support eSIM or iSIM and carriers will be forced to keep up.

Enterprise and IoT Growth

Businesses are already adopting eSIM for:

Company phones
Delivery fleet tracking
Smart utility meters
Remote security devices

eSIM makes managing devices at scale cheaper and simpler with no shipping delays, no SIM swapping.

The same tech is also powering electric cars, wearables, and 5G hotspots worldwide.

If you’re building a product or running a team now’s the time to plan your eSIM strategy.

Conclusion

By now, you’ve seen what eSIM Technology is really about.

It’s not just a tech upgrade. It’s a smarter way to stay connected whether you’re flying abroad, switching networks, or running a remote team.

Here’s the recap:

It works on most modern phones and tablets
Setup is fast no stores, no SIM cards
You can manage multiple numbers on one device
It’s safer, greener, and built for flexibility
But it’s not perfect watch for device locks, profile reuse, and KYC rules

If you’re ready to try it, start with a small plan. Or check out the best eSIM for international travel of 2025 to compare your options.

You’ll never want to go back to plastic SIMs again.

eSIM Technology FAQs: Simple Answers to Common Questions

Can I use eSIM and physical SIM together?

Yes. Most phones support dual SIM, one eSIM and one physical SIM at the same time.

How many eSIMs can I store in one phone?

Usually 5–8 profiles. But only one or two can stay active at a time.

Can I use hotspot or tethering with eSIM?

Yes. Most eSIMs allow mobile hotspot unless your plan blocks it. Always check before buying.

Can I get SMS and calls with eSIM?

If the plan includes it, yes. But some travel eSIMs are data-only. Choose voice-enabled if needed for OTPs or banking.

What happens if I delete my eSIM?

In most cases, it’s gone for good unless your provider allows re-downloading. See what happens if I delete eSIM to avoid mistakes.

Can I use eSIM on a second-hand phone?

Yes but only if it’s unlocked and compatible. Always check the EID and software version before installing.

Will eSIM affect battery life?

Not really. It uses the same power as a regular SIM. Dual SIM mode may use slightly more but not enough to notice.