Like many essential products and services going virtual, eSIM cards are slated to become the new way to communicate and connect to the internet, especially for tech-savvy travelers.
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM or embedded SIM card is a new technology. It is the virtual or digital version of the traditional data SIM card.
Fortunately, if you have one of the last-gen or latest Android phones, there’s a good chance it iseSIM-compatible.
Brief history and evolution
The first SIM card was the size of a credit card—and it could take just five messages and 20 contacts. Over the years, the plastic SIM card size shrunk to fit into newer and compact mobile phones.
In 1996 the Mini SIM card was launched, then in 2010 came the Micro SIM, followed by the Nano SIM in 2012, which is used in today’s handsets.
Now, the latest and higher-end Android smartphones have an embedded chip, the eSIM. The chip is smaller than a nanoSIM and lets you have up to 20 eSIM profiles with 20 different numbers and data plans.
SIM card vs. eSIM
Physical SIM
Physical chip
Completely virtual
Needs a smartphone with SIM slots
Needs an e-SIM compatible smartphone
Supported by even older phones
Only last-gen devices or the latest smartphones support eSIMs
Android compatibility with eSIM
Most of Android’s high-end devices support eSIMs. However, you should checkeSIM compatibilityin your phone before buying one.
If you’re looking for a new Android phone, you can also explore a roundup of thebest e-SIM-compatible Android phones in 2023.
eSIM benefits
eSIMs are available through a digital download. This not only makes them easy to obtain, but allows for simple installation, and streamlined use with immediate access instead of waiting for a physical SIM card to be shipped and activated. As a bonus, it also contributes to reducing plastic waste, compared to physical SIM cards.
Now, let’s dive deeper into the actual usage benefits of an eSIM. With the use of a local eSIM or buying a travel eSIM, you’re able to eliminate expensive roaming charges. Additionally, with an eSIM’s multiple eSIM profiles, you can use your phone like a Dual SIM device. This allows you to use your domestic physical SIM to connect with friends and family and use aHolafly travel eSIMfor data to remain connected to the internet. This way, you can avoid the inconvenience of potentially losing all your data due to misplaced physical SIM cards.
Holafly eSIM benefits
If you are a digital nomad, you should consider a Travel eSIM from Holafly, a renowned eSIM provider that’s rated 4.7 stars by Trustpilot. Holafly offers extensive coverage in over 150 countries, unlimited data plans in more than 50 destinations, internet connectivity without Wi-Fi or public networks, and 24/7 customer support in five different languages.
With Holafly’s eSIM you can create multiple profiles for each destination you’re visiting. For example, you can have a profile with a data plan for each country, then switch profiles from one country to the next, always staying connected. Or, if you’re planning multiple trips to Europe, Holafly offers aneSIM for Europe, providing coverage in more than 30 destinations.
Disadvantages of eSIM
Although the benefits are plentiful, there are a few downsides of eSIMs. First, eSIMs are only compatible with high-end devices, and not all carriers support them at this time.
Where can you get an eSIM?
One of the most preferred online eSIM stores by travelers worldwide isHolafly. Packing a 4.7-star rating by Trustpilot, Holafly offers eSIM cards for over 150 destinations worldwide, with some packages including multi-country coverage and unlimited data.
you’re able to get prepaid HolaflyeSIMs with phone numbersfor Europe, Spain, Italy, France, and Germany. Plus, if you run into any trouble, get 24/7 support, available in five languages.
Or, if you’re looking for an eSIM to use locally, you can contact your local provider to inquire about its eSIM technology.
How to Install eSIM on Android
It’s as easy toinstall and activate an eSIM on your Android deviceas it is to install an app.
Methods for installation
Using the Holafly app for eSIM control
The simple and easy-to-useHolafly Android applets you install and activate your Holafly eSIMs, manage all your eSIMs, check your remaining data, and enjoy 24/7 online support.
Eco progress of eSIMs
As you globe-trot, you can rest assured with the righttravel eSIMyou’re reducing your carbon footprint. Unlike physical SIMs, eSIMs help reduce the use of plastics and the CO2 emissions and consumption of raw materials.
Move on to the new eSIM wave and continue to explore the world without any hassles. With everything controlled within your phone from your local information to your travel details, you can maintain uninterrupted internet connectivity and make the most of your experiences.
See at Holafly
What can I do if I lose my eSIM profile?
If you cannot find the QR code or have deleted it by mistake, please send an email to help@holafly.com or access Holafly’s online chat.
