Last updated December 2023

We have been using SIM cards for decades, and they have been getting smaller and smaller as technology has advanced. 

Now, they are about to go through another radical change.

The latest generation of SIM cards, called the eSIM for embedded SIM cards, is a reprogram

mable chip embedded inside a device (smartphone, tablet, wearable or connected object).  

The information on an eSIM is rewritable and can be updated over the air.

Apple first turned to eSIM to add connectivity, and since then, it is clear that more and more major players are joining the eSIM revolution.  

Using eSIM brings many advantages to device manufacturers and networks, but there are also some advantages for users.

The embedded SIM is smart and lets users change mobile operators by updating the software settings.

Therefore, if your contract on one network is finishing, and you would like to swap to a new operator for a better deal, you can have the new operator update your SIM over the air—no more swapping SIM cards.

eSIM cards are found in a wide range of consumer products, such as smartphones, wearables, and computers.

For industries, this is very useful, too. The eSIM can be soldered inside a device and then sealed, making it water- and temperature-resistant. 

This makes it more robust and thus ideal for use in a connected car, for example, driving in extreme heat and on bumpy roads.

eSIMs, in short:

  • The chip and its super secure software come embedded inside the phone.
  • The SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) credentials necessary to sign on to your preferred carrier's cellphone network are downloaded.
  • The eSIM works precisely as a SIM card. 

If you want to know more about eSIMs, read our post six key points to understand what an eSIM is. 

Also, carry on reading our Mobile Telephony Security guide.