E Sim Introduction:
E Sim is a Sim card that is embedded in a mobile device and can connect you to any operator offering E Sim services. The E Sim works the same way as a traditional Sim card, but you don’t need a physical Sim card to use it. … More and more smartphones, tablets are equipped with an E Sim card. An eSIM can be provisioned remotely; end-users can add or remove operators without the need to physically swap a SIM from the device. eSIM is a global specification by the GSMA that enables remote SIM provisioning of any mobile device. GSMA defines eSIM as the SIM for the next generation of connected consumer devices.
Since 2010, the GSMA had been discussing the possibility of a software-based SIM.
In 2016, the Samsung Gear S2 Classic 3G smartwatch was the first device to implement an eSIM.
In 2017, during Mobile World Congress, Qualcomm introduced a technical solution, with a live demonstration, within its Snapdragon hardware chip associated with related software (secured Java applications).
E Sim Implementation:
Singapore is seeking public opinions on introducing eSIM as a new standard, as more compatible devices enter the market. Apple implemented eSIM support in its Apple Watch Series 3 and later, in addition to every iPad they’ve released since the iPad Pro (3rd generation).
Apple also included eSIM support with the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, and later featuring Dual SIM. eSIM support on iPhone requires iOS 12.1 or later. eSIM on iPhone is not offered in China mainland. In Hong Kong and Macao, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone SE (2nd generation), and iPhone XS feature eSIM. Apple offers a growing list of worldwide service providers that offer eSIM service.
Google launched Pixel 2 in October 2017, which added eSIM support for use with its Google Fi service. In 2018, Google released the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL and subsequently in May 2019, the Pixel 3a and Pixel 3a XL, with eSIM support for carriers other than Google Fi. In October that same year, Google released the Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL with eSIM support.
Advantage of E Sim
- It stores multiple cellular profiles and hence it works seamlessly across the world.
- No specific slot is required unlike SIM cards. Hence it is ideal for space constrained IoT devices.
- There is no possibility to lose the card as it is tied to the device itself.
- It is possible to have E Sim controllable over the air. Hence it is easy to be used by network operators.
- It provides same level of security as removable SIM card.
- E Sim isn’t easy to hack Hackers must pivot through a billing-process security feature and the cloud to intrude into your phone details while in a roaming situation.
Disadvantage of E Sim
- When mobile phone breaks, it is easy to transfer data to the new phone in case of SIM card. This is not possible in E Sim devices and users need to rely on cloud to retrieve the data such as messages, contacts and other useful informations.
- There is possibility of hacking E Sim card data from cloud hosting.
- While E Sim devices could be highly beneficial for mass-produced devices, they are not without their flaws.
- Another issue with E Sim devices is that, while they offer security and the ability to be reprogrammed, they cannot be physically removed from the device.
- E Sim isn’t available for older phones Since it’s relatively new, E Sim is not compatible with older phone models, and you may have to pay for an expensive new phone.
- E Sim is harder to transfer data Instead of popping the card out of a damaged phone, you have to download your data from the cloud to get your contacts, message, and other media back.
Conclusion
These are positive and negative aspects of this E sim, but these facilities came with premium phones only like Apple, Google Pixel, Samsung, Huawei phones only support this feature. In future, we can expect this feature will come in the Mid Range category also. Let’s Wait for that feature…..
