(*14*)Apple's decision to remove the SIM tray on US models of its new iPhone 14 could be more significant than its decision to ditch the old headphone jack with the iPhone 7. The obvious questions: what does eSIM offer? and how devices are provisioned?
Apple's journey to eSIM
(*14*)Apple first introduced Electronic Subscriber Identity Module (eSIM) support on the iPhone XS, but it was optional: the phone also had a SIM tray for use with physical SIM cards. But Apple's new iPhone 14 lineup doesn't have a SIM tray in the US, meaning carriers must ship the device exclusively with an eSIM. (The new iPhones arrive on Friday.)
(*14*)The company is likely trying to accelerate eSIM adoption with this move, though Apple smartphones sold outside the US will still house SIM trays.
What is an eSIM?
(*14*)An eSIM is a programmable embedded identity module that sits inside the iPhone itself. It's like a wired SIM card, but it must be provisioned by networks, which must also update their own systems to accommodate your use.
(*14*)Like a physical SIM card, an eSIM carries a 17-digit code indicating its country of origin, provider and unique user ID.
(*14*)Apple's decision to switch to eSIM is fine if your carrier supports the technology, but the decision to make it mandatory could prove difficult for a small number of US customers whose carriers don't. Apparently, I received several messages from readers in the US about smaller carriers complaining about Apple's decision when it was announced. I hope the carriers play ball.
The pros and cons of using eSIM
(*14*)Apple's switch to eSIM will likely have little impact on most people's experience. But there are pros and cons to using it.
(*14*)One of the benefits is that you no longer need to use a physical SIM card, which means moving between phones can be a bit easier when your carrier supports eSIM. There's also likely to be a positive impact in terms of ensuring iPhones remain waterproof, as removing the tray also means removing an opening in the case.
(*14*)Another advantage: several lines can be installed. Apple says you can store at least eight different eSIMs on the device and have two active at all times. When multiple eSIMs are installed, the two "active" numbers can make and receive voice and FaceTime calls, and send and receive messages via iMessage, SMS, and MMS. Your iPhone will always use only one mobile data network at a time.
(*14*)One drawback is that the use of eSIM makes it much more difficult for international travelers to simply choose a Pay As You Go (PAYG) SIM card to use with their device once they arrive at their destination. Given the high roaming charges, this could be a huge inconvenience for frequent travelers, especially those traveling to countries where eSIMs aren't available, although providers like GigSky can help some travelers fill this gap.
(*14*)Another potential drawback would arise if carriers decide to start charging high fees to users who try to provide an eSIM, or use the technology to make it even more difficult to migrate devices between networks.
How to set up an iPhone eSIM
(*14*)There are several ways to configure an eSIM on an iPhone. These include eSIM operator activation, fast eSIM transfer and other activation methods. Here is a list of operators and how they admit eSIM.
How to use eSIM network provider activation
(*14*)This means that your network provider assigns an eSIM to your iPhone at the time of purchase. If your iPhone was assigned an eSIM when you purchased it, turn on your iPhone and follow the instructions to activate your eSIM.
(*14*)If you are upgrading to a new device, the line is often provided via a QR code that your device must scan. It may also be provided in your network provider's iPhone app. Alternatively, you may receive a notification that the provider's mobile data plan is ready to be installed, which you need to approve.
How to use eSIM Quick Transfer to convert a physical SIM card
(*14*)If your carrier supports eSIM Quick Transfer, you can convert your physical SIM card to eSIM when you set up your iPhone (you don't need to contact your network provider). To do this, open Settings > Cellular and tap the Convert to eSIM button, if available. If this button is not available, you will need to contact your carrier. If the button exists, tap Convert Cellular Plan, then choose Convert to eSIM. Once the eSIM is activated, your SIM card will be deactivated, then you need to remove the physical SIM card and restart your iPhone. You will see an option to transfer the eSIM to another device once the process is complete.
How to use eSIM Quick Transfer to transfer your line
(*14*)First, make sure both your old and new iPhone are running iOS 16. Then open Settings > Cellular data > Add data plan. You should see one or more mobile data plans to "transfer from another device" or tap Transfer from another device. Your old device will provide you with instructions to follow to transfer the line, and you may be asked for a verification code. Then wait for the transfer to take place. You may receive a message asking you to finish setting up your network provider's data plan. Follow this to be redirected to your network provider's web page to transfer your eSIM to your new device.
(*14*)It is important to note that not all carriers support all the different ways to transfer your line.
You may need to enter the details manually
(*14*)Your carrier may choose to provide you with information that you must manually enter into your device to activate an eSIM. You'll enter them in Settings > Cellular or mobile data > Add mobile data plan, then select Enter details manually.
Preparing your device for sale
(*14*)You may need to erase your eSIM, especially if you choose to assign it to another device or are preparing to trade in or sell your current iPhone. It's easy to do, just open Settings > Cellular or mobile data where you need to select the plan you want to get rid of, then choose Remove SIM card.
How is it for you?
(*14*)I am particularly interested in whether the process is more or less complicated for large device deployments and the process (if any) of remote eSIM provisioning for IT administrators. Write me if you have any idea about this.
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