You’ve heard of the eSIM card, but wonder what it is and what are its benefits? Discover this growing technology.
The eSIM card opens the door to faster, more flexible, and more secure mobile connectivity. Here’s all you need to know about this growing technology that is transforming how we connect to the mobile network.
What’s an eSIM card?
Let’s start at the beginning. A SIM card is a chip you insert into a mobile phone so it can connect to a carrier’s mobile network. You need it to make calls, send and receive texts, and use data on a cellular network. Once the size of a credit card, it has been made smaller and smaller, becoming completely virtual with the arrival of the eSIM card.
An eSIM, or embedded SIM card, is a SIM card already integrated into the mobile device. It is part of the device’s components and cannot be removed. The eSIM is activated remotely, almost instantly, and offers many benefits.
What are the benefits of the eSIM card?
More space. On models that work exclusively with eSIM, not having a slot for a physical SIM card creates more space in the phone’s casing. The device can be made thinner or host bigger components, such as a larger battery, increasing the device’s battery power.
More waterproof. With the SIM card tray gone, that’s one less opening in the casing to worry about. This offers better protection against liquids and dust, improving the device’s protection rating.
Improved customer experience. No more waiting for your SIM card to arrive when you subscribe to a Mobile plan online. You can activate the eSIM remotely as soon as you subscribe, and enjoy your mobile services within minutes. Learn how to activate an eSIM card at Videotron.
Multiple numbers. It is possible to manage up to 8 eSIM profiles—or more—depending on the iPhone model. You can therefore switch from one number to another with ease. However, only two numbers can be active at the same time (or just one if you do not have the Double SIM feature).
Diversification of connected objects. Given its tiny size, the eSIM can be integrated into all sorts of connected objects, such as clothing and smartwatches.
Improved security. The eSIM reduces the risks of SIM-swapping fraud, as the card cannot be transferred from one device to another.
Use while travelling. The eSIM allows you to subscribe to a Mobile plan in another country for a few days. It is one of several travel mobile solution, alongside international Mobile plans and options for travellers.
What are some inconveniences of the eSIM card?
Even though it has several advantages, the eSIM card does have a few inconveniences compared to its traditional counterpart.
Internet required for activation. Your mobile device needs to be connected to an Internet network (via Wi-Fi or through cellular data) in order to activate the eSIM. This can be an issue if you’re trying to activate the eSIM while abroad.
Hard to fix. Because it is an internal component, the eSIM is difficult to repair.
Non-transferable from one device to another. If you change mobile devices, you will need to contact your carrier for a new activation code (whereas before, you simply had to insert your old SIM card into the new phone).
Limited compatibility. Only fairly recent models are compatible with eSIM technology. This constraint will be reduced in the coming years, as new devices come out.
Which iPhone devices are eSIM-compatible?
All iPhone models starting at iPhone XS accept eSIM cards. This includes iPhone SE 2nd and 3rd generation devices, as well as all series from iPhone 11 onward.
Since the launch of the iPhone 17, several countries now offer iPhone models that exclusively work with an eSIM. None of them support physical SIM cards. This trend is expected to continue with future Apple devices.
Other devices that are eSIM-compatible
- Samsung devices starting at S21, Z Flip3 5G, and Z Fold3 5G
- Google Pixel phones starting at Pixel 4
- Motorola phones starting at moto g (2024), razr+ (2024), moto g stylus 5G (2023)
- Smartwatches
- Tablet with cellular connectivity: iPad Pro, iPad Air, etc.
- Laptop computers: certain Microsoft Surface, Lenovo, and HP models
How can I tell if my phone is eSIM-compatible?
There are two ways to tell if your device is compatible with eSIM technology.
1) Check your device’s technical specifications or user guide. On the Videotron website, for example, this information appears in the Others, section, next to SIM card format:
2) Dial *#06# on your phone to display the device’s information. The presence of an EID (Embedded Identity Document) number confirms that an eSIM card can be used.
Can I have both a SIM and eSIM card at the same time?
Yes, if your phone has the Dual SIM Dual Standby (DSDS) feature. This feature allows you to use two SIM cards, two eSIM cards, or a SIM card and eSIM card simultaneously, depending on your device.
A forward-looking technology
The eSIM is a modern, practical, and secure solution for mobile users. Despite a few limitations, its various benefits make it a technology of the future which has already been adopted by several manufacturers. You just need to check whether your device is compatible!
Other articles you can read:
Mis à jour 17-10-2025
Version 2.0
