What is an eSim?

MSE_Clare

We've just published a brand new guide on What is an eSim?

We'd love to know of your experiences with eSims, or if you've any feedback or questions we've not answered, let us know in this thread.

If you haven't already, join the forum to reply.

arkhamknight02

I had an eSim during my contract with EE. Didn’t have any problems, service worked as it should. Encountered a couple of problems moving eSims between devices but it was sorted quick enough.

bryanb

Can an eSim be used in a Wi-Fi only iPad? Sorry if this is a daft question.

400ixl

bryanb said:

Can an eSim be used in a Wi-Fi only iPad? Sorry if this is a daft question.

No, a wifi only iPad will not have the hardware required to support an eSim.

Peter999_2

I've got a Lyca E-Sim in my Google Pixel 7.  Works really well, no problems at all and easy to setup (just scan a unique QR code).

flaneurs_lobster

Swapped a Vodafone regular Sim for an eSim when my new phone had it available. Took ten minutes with no problems at all (but with enough security/iD checking to make it secure). 

On a Samsung A54 it frees up two physical sim slots or 1 sim & 1 SD.

savergrant

flaneurs_lobster said:

On a Samsung A54 it frees up two physical sim slots or 1 sim & 1 SD.

My understanding of my Samsung s20 is that you can use 2 physical sims or a physical sim and an e-sim (and then have a micro sd slot) but you can't have 2 physical sims and an e-sim.

flaneurs_lobster

savergrant said:

flaneurs_lobster said:

On a Samsung A54 it frees up two physical sim slots or 1 sim & 1 SD.

My understanding of my Samsung s20 is that you can use 2 physical sims or a physical sim and an e-sim (and then have a micro sd slot) but you can't have 2 physical sims and an e-sim.

Quite right (just tried it), you can have a second physical sim in situ but turning it on will turn off the e-sim.

savergrant

flaneurs_lobster said:

savergrant said:

flaneurs_lobster said:

On a Samsung A54 it frees up two physical sim slots or 1 sim & 1 SD.

My understanding of my Samsung s20 is that you can use 2 physical sims or a physical sim and an e-sim (and then have a micro sd slot) but you can't have 2 physical sims and an e-sim.

Quite right (just tried it), you can have a second physical sim in situ but turning it on will turn off the e-sim.

I suppose that could be useful if you need a backup for data, or if you are in an area of poor reception. It would allow you to switch between sim and e-sim without having to remove the sim.
But for my usage it probably isn't worth it.

jbrassy

These e-sims are fine, but I think it's much cheaper to buy a local (physical) sim card in the airport when you arrive at your destination. 

Swainy

I can't agree that this is the best way to keep in touch on holiday. My nephew talks to his father from South Australia on Signal for free. They speak for an unlimited amount of time and communication is perfect. Sending videos and photos is no problem. 
It's a complete no-brainer!