In addition to the normal SIM cards, there are now also eSIM cards. These are built into the iPhone Xs, for example. But what is the difference between the two SIM card types? And which SIM card should you use for your smartphone? In the following article you will find all the important information on the topic.
What is the technical difference between a SIM card and an eSIM?
SIM cards are now widely known. It is a kind of chip that is inserted into the cell phone. With the help of a SIM card, you can make phone calls, write SMS and use the Internet on your smartphone. The eSIM card can do all of that too. The difference: an eSIM is built into the device. It cannot be removed or replaced. This property is already reflected in the name: The 'e' in eSIM stands for "embedded"..
By the way: like regular SIM cards, an eSIM has its own individual phone number.
Does the eSIM card have any advantages?
One advantage of the eSIM is that it is rewritten directly by the provider. Changes to the contract and tariff can therefore be initiated directly by the mobile communications provider. So you don't have to wait for a new SIM card if you change providers. The existing eSIM is then simply overwritten with the new data..
In addition, smartphone manufacturers can simply install the appropriate eSIM in their smartphone. Difficulties in installing or replacing the SIM card can therefore hardly arise. At the moment, especially newer Apple devices such as the iPhone Xs, iPhone 11 or the Apple Watch from Series 3 are equipped with an eSIM.
What are the disadvantages of the eSIM?
Not all mobile phone providers have yet been able to switch to eSIM. You can only obtain a smartphone with eSIM from Telekom and Vodafone. In addition, you cannot convert your old smartphone. If you want to have a cell phone with eSIM, you have to purchase the device and the built-in eSIM directly from the cell phone provider by contract..