Unlike a conventional SIM card, which can be exchanged, eSIM is built into the device permanently and cannot be replaced. “E” in eSIM comes from the English word “embedded” – embedded or integrated. eSIM uses the same specifications as regular SIM cars. Therefore, they are compatible with each other, and in practical use, there is no difference what type of SIM card is installed in your smartphone.
The main advantage of eSIM is that the SIM card chip can be quickly rewritten to another operator. In addition, with eSIM, there are no problems with improper SIM card sizes. This speeds up and simplifies the transition to a new communications provider. eSIM is also beneficial for smartphone manufacturers: since eSIM is built into the device, this eliminates the need to create additional connectors for accessing the gadget.
The relative disadvantage of the eSIM card is that there are still very few eSIM providers on the market. Some mobile operators do not take this technology seriously. In Europe, eSIM from Telekom and Vodafone are available. It will take some time before eSIM will gain a strong market position and come to Russia.