Have no idea what eSIM is? No worries—it actually makes your travel easier! Here’s how.
When you get a new phone, you may be used to digging through your junk drawer to find a tiny pin and then meticulously poking at the side of your old phone to switch the SIM card to your new device; however, the SIM card has evolved in ways that make digital connection much easier. These evolutions are important for everyday phone users, but for travelers, eSIM technology is a game-changer.
eSIM technology isn’t just for phones, though: It translates to mobile hotspots, too, which are essential to help travelers connect with loved ones, work, and everything in between. The eSIM technology used in mobile hotspots may be your best option depending on your connectivity needs—it allows for a much more convenient and seamless connectivity experience so that you can spend more time focusing on what matters most.
- Zachary Gressaffa, IT director and network administrator, contributed expertise to this article.
- This article was reviewed for accuracy by Jeff Gwinnell, connectivity specialist at TravlFi.
What is eSIM and How Does It Work?
eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital replacement for physical SIM cards traditionally used in mobile devices to connect to a cellular signal, according to Zachary Gressaffa, an IT director and network administrator. Like a traditional SIM card, an eSIM authenticates a device so that its data usage is permissible by a carrier, but unlike physical SIM cards that need to be manually removed and switched between devices, eSIMs are digitally built into mobile devices and cannot be removed.
eSIM Technology for Cell Phones vs. Mobile Hotspots
Although the basis of eSIM technology remains the same, there are different uses: eSIM technology used for cell phones and eSIM technology used for mobile hotspots. Traditional SIM cards achieve the same general goal as eSIMs, but rather than a physical card present on the side of your phone, eSIMs are digital. According to Gressaffa, “eSIMs are used as a means for a cellular data carrier to authenticate mobile devices for use of data.”
Additionally, most mobile devices can share this data access with other devices through a hotspot. In the context of international travel, Gressaffa adds that if international data roaming is not available or rates are too high, eSIM is a great alternative.
On the other hand, eSIMs used for mobile hotspot devices, like in many TravlFi products, allow it to automatically search for and connect to the strongest signal; then, your phone or other mobile devices can access the internet via the mobile hotspot connection.
Does eSIM Require a SIM Card?
The beauty of eSIM technology is that it does not require a SIM card. Gressaffa explains that eSIMs were created to replace the physical SIM hardware. It uses software in place of the physical identifier for phones, mobile hotspots, or other devices that require authentication to use cellular data.
Benefits of eSIM Technology for Mobile Hotspots
So what makes eSIM “better” than traditional SIM technology? In general, there are several benefits to using eSIM supported devices over traditional SIM devices. When it comes to internet connection, eSIM technology provides travelers with a more seamless and, therefore, reliable, connectivity experience.
Signal Optimization
Unlike traditional SIM cards that are tied to a single network, eSIM technology allows your mobile hotspot to automatically search for and connect to the strongest possible signal across multiple major networks, even in areas where sky obstructions–like tall buildings or mountains–are present.
This feature is incredibly useful for those who may jump around from location to location frequently and are not familiar with the strongest networks in their area. Especially if you only visit somewhere for a short time, you do not have to worry about picking the best network–eSIM devices do that for you!
Cost-Efficient
eSIM lets you get more bang for your buck. Many of the multi-carrier eSIM devices that TravlFi offers source connection from multiple networks for just one price. If you think about it, you are only paying one price but gaining access to multiple carriers with eSIM, which is more cost-efficient than paying one price for only one carrier as with SIM devices. Additionally, TravlFi’s eSIM data plans allow you to pay as you go so you aren't forced to commit to a data plan that may not always be optimal for you.
Flexible Management Options
Due to the convenience of having SIM information embedded within your hotspot devices, it is much simpler to manage your connectivity needs. With TravlFi’s eSIM devices, you can easily view your data online in the TravlFi Portal.
The flexibility does not stop there; as you explore, you may decide your data plan isn’t working for you and upgrade to better suit your needs–you can make those upgrades instantly because with eSIM, no physical hardware swapping is needed for service.
User Experience and Security
Overall, a benefit to utilizing eSIM technology is that it makes your experience easier. Because there is no physical SIM card, set up is easy, and no installation is required. Some devices, like the TravlFi JourneyGo Hostpot, run on a rechargeable battery, so they are not even required to stay plugged in. This means that you can have reliable Wi-Fi in your pocket, enhancing the ways you explore.
What about eSIM in Phones?
Embedded SIM technology is also increasingly important to have on your phone for safety reasons. It reinforces a level of security because if your phone is stolen, the eSIM holding your carrier information can be deactivated remotely. Gressaffa explains that from a convenience standpoint, there is no longer a need to transfer SIM cards between devices when you get a new phone.
No physical SIM also means that different sized SIM cards between phone models or phone brands are no longer a concern. Gressaffa also adds that eSIM gives users the ability to manage multiple phone numbers without the need to constantly switch between SIM cards.
FAQs
What is the downside of eSIM?
The only downside of eSIM is that the technology is not currently supported by all networks. Because eSIM technology is relatively new, you may face some compatibility issues if your devices are older, according to Zachary Gressaffa, an IT director and network administrator.
Why would someone use an eSIM?
Zachary Gressaffa, an IT director and network administrator, explains that eSIMs are commonly used when purchasing a new phone–it allows you to transfer your network and carrier details to new devices without the need for cords or hardware swaps. Someone may use an eSIM because it is “another progression in technology that improves UX [user experience] and ease of use,” says Gressaffa. For travelers, eSIM is useful for international connectivity or in mobile hotspot devices.
Do all hotspots have eSIM?
Not all hotspots use eSIM technology, at least not yet. Many hotspots still require a physical SIM card; this has been the standard for years while eSIM is still relatively new. According to IT director and network administrator Zachary Gressaffa, “up-to-date hardware that supports eSIM [is necessary] to utilize its benefits.”
Do all phones have eSIM?
Not all phones use eSIM, but many newer phones do, according to Zachary Gressaffa, an IT director and network administrator. Phones released in recent years generally use eSIM over physical SIM because the tech progression makes transferring information quicker and more secure. Older phone models may still be behind on eSIM technology and require a physical SIM to hold carrier information.
Do all networks support eSIM?
eSIM is not necessarily supported by all networks, but “as long as your carrier uses a SIM as a method of authentication and your mobile device has the ability to use eSIM, then it can be used,” says Zachary Gressaffa, an IT director and network administrator.
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Article By: Ever Vigee
Ever Vigee is an award-winning writer and digital advertising student at Louisiana State University. A member of the LSU chapters of The National Association of Black Journalists and the American Advertising Federation, she grew up surrounded by creativity and enjoys expressing her ideas through graphic design, writing, photography, fashion, and music. Ever strives to be an effective communicator and is eager to travel and explore the world in ways that will supplement her creativity and understanding of different cultures.
