The eSIM, short for "embedded SIM", is the future of the SIM card. With these SIM cards integrated directly into the smartphone, you no longer have to worry about formats such as mini, micro or nano and switching providers is also uncomplicated. So if you have a smartphone with the eSIM function in mind, you still need a suitable provider. Below is an overview.
Tip : Find out more about eSIMs here.
Which devices support eSIM?
Most of the newer models already support the eSIM function. This includes not only smartphones, but also tablets, smartwatches and even some notebooks and PCs. Here is a list:
- Apple iPhone XS, XS Max
- Apple iPhone XR
- Apple iPhone SE
- Apple iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
- Google Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL
- Google Pixel 3a and 3a XL
- Google Pixel 4
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip
- Samsung Galaxy S20, S20 +, S20 Ultra
- Samsung Gear S2 3G Smartwatch
- Samsung Galaxy Watch LTE
- Lenovo Yoga 630
- HP Specter Folio
- Apple Watch Series 4 and Series 5
- Apple iPad Pro 2018 11 and 12.9 inches
- Apple iPad Air 2
- Apple iPad Mini 3
Which eSIM providers are there?
The eSIM has been available from all three network operators since the end of 2018: Telekom, Vodafone and O2. But many smaller cell phone providers are now also offering the new SIM cards. Here is an overview:
Telekom
At Telekom you get an eSIM not only for contracts, but also for prepaid cards. You also have the choice of using the eSIM as a main card or as a multi-SIM. If you are already a Telekom customer and have a contract, you can easily apply for and set up an eSIM yourself via the customer center.
https://www.telekom.de/unterwegs/esim
Vodafone
Vodafone only offers eSIM with a contract. It does not matter whether you want to conclude this contract for the first time or want to extend it. You can simply exchange your SIM card for an eSIM and, similar to Telekom, you have the option of setting up the eSIM yourself in the customer area.
https://www.vodafone.de/hilfe/alles-zur-esim.html
O2
As an O2 customer, you can only get an eSIM with a contract. However, the multi-SIM variant is free of charge at O2. If you already have a tariff with a term, you can simply exchange your activated SIM card for an eSIM in the customer area or in the app. However, if you would like to sign a new contract, you will always receive a SIM card that you can exchange for an eSIM after activation.
https://www.o2online.de/service/esim/
Congstar
As a Congstar customer, you can get the eSIM via the hotline. For this you need to have your access data ready. You will then find all the information and settings you need to set up the eSIM in the customer center. You can reach the hotline at the following number: 0221 79 700 700
https://www.congstar.de/hilfe-service/mein-handy/sim-karte-tauschen
Drillisch
You can easily order your eSIM at Drillisch in the personal service world. After placing your order, you can activate your new SIM and use it immediately. However, this only works if you are already a Drillisch customer..
1 & 1
Even with 1 & 1, you will only receive an eSIM with a contract. After ordering, you will receive a QR code in the mail with which you can activate the eSIM.
https://blog.1und1.de/2019/06/06/die-esim-bei-11-funktionsweise-und-aktivierung/
mobilcom-debitel
For contracts of mobilcom-debitel you get a eSIM on request. You can select this when purchasing a contract or exchange it for your activated SIM card.
simquadrat
At simquadrat you only get eSIMs - SIM cards made of plastic have completely disappeared from the range. In addition, simquadrat only offers prepaid tariffs. So you can determine what you need every month. You always get the eSIM free of charge with your tariff and you can activate it and manage it online in seconds..
Truphone
Just like simquadrat has also Truphone completely dedicated to eSIMs. You can simply activate the eSIM via the app and select a new tariff option every month or cancel it every day.
