The eSIM, or electronic SIM card, is becoming increasingly important in the mobile world. It represents an alternative to physical SIM cards and offers many benefits for users and operators. To gain a better understanding of this innovative technology, it is worth looking back at its origins, its history, the different situations in which it is used and its appeal in Europe.
The creation of eSIMs: a major development in the SIM card family
Since their creation in the 90s, SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) cards have always been manufactured in physical form and inserted manually into mobile devices. Their main role is to associate a user with their telephone number and access to their operator’s network. However, the constraints associated with their size (although they have been reduced several times) and handling have pushed the industry towards a more practical and durable solution: eSIM.
Initially developed in 2012 by the GSMA, the leading international association representing the interests of more than 750 telephone operators and manufacturers, the eSIM was designed for cars, home automation devices, smartphones, tablets and “wearables” or connected objects.
First appearance of the electronic SIM card for the general public
The eSIM made its debut in 2016, integrated into a number of smartwatch models, in particular the Samsung Gear S2 Classic 3G. This innovation quickly attracted the attention of smartphone and tablet manufacturers, who were impressed by the practicality and potential of this new format.
The benefits of eSIMs for consumers and operators
The switch from physical SIM cards to virtual SIM cards brings a number of benefits, both for users and for telecoms operators.
Reduced size and easy installation
While physical SIM cards have evolved from Mini-SIM to Micro-SIM to Nano-SIM, the eSIM represents a real change in their design. 100 times smaller than a traditional SIM card, it allows manufacturers to save valuable space to integrate more components or optimise the design of their products.
What’s more, this electronic SIM is soldered directly to the motherboard of the devices, so there’s no need for a SIM tray and no problems associated with its handling (loss, damage, etc.).
Flexibility and speed in subscribing to a mobile plan
With an eSIM, the process of activating a mobile plan is quicker and easier: simply scan a QR code provided by the operator or use a dedicated application to activate the electronic card. So there’s no need to manually insert the SIM card or wait for it to arrive by post.
Greater potential for international roaming
Travellers also benefit from the advantages offered by the eSIM, as they can easily subscribe to temporary local plans to take advantage of the best offers without using a physical SIM card, and keeping their telephone number.
eSIM usage situations: when and how to use it?
Beyond smartphones, eSIMs are opening up new possibilities for use in different areas and types of connected device.
Connected objects and the Internet of Things (IoT)
Devices such as smartwatches, connected wristbands, smart glasses, thermostats, electronic locks and many others can now be equipped with an eSIM to connect to mobile networks. This simplifies their operation and enables them to communicate independently of a smartphone or external Wi-Fi access point. In this way, eSIMs make it possible to develop new services, such as remote home automation and medical monitoring.
Automotive industry
In the automotive sector, manufacturers are also starting to integrate eSIMs into their vehicles to ensure Internet access at all times. This on-board technology facilitates the development of advanced navigation and multimedia entertainment solutions, as well as security services and remote assistance.
Interest in and use of eSIMs in Europe: where do we stand?
In Europe, the eSIM roll-out is progressing rapidly, with more and more mobile operators offering eSIM-compatible packages to their customers. This electronic SIM card is also supported by the major manufacturers of smartphones and connected objects, such as Apple, Samsung, Google and Huawei.
Examples of compatible device models
- Smartphones: iPhone Xs, Xs Max, Xr and later models; Samsung Galaxy S21 and Fold; Google Pixel 3… List of compatible phones
- Tablets: iPad Pro 11″, Air and Mini 5th generation
- Smart watches: Apple Watch Series 3 and later, Samsung Gear S2 3G and later versions…
It should be noted that in Europe, legislation still allows the simultaneous use of physical SIM cards and eSIMs. This allows European users to choose between these two options according to their needs and preferences.
In conclusion, the eSIM represents a real technological breakthrough, bringing about a major change in the world of mobile telecommunications. It offers considerable benefits in terms of space, flexibility, speed of activation and international roaming potential. The eSIM should therefore continue to develop rapidly in Europe over the coming years.
