For years, the humble physical SIM card has been the backbone of telecom infrastructure around the world. Wireless carriers distributed billions of physical SIM cards to customers around the globe to allow them access their services. But this is taking a different turn with the emergence of embedded SIMs—or eSIMs.
This technology replaces those bulky plastic cards, offering better flexibility and improved security at reduced manufacturing costs – making it attractive to device makers.
Although physical SIM cards are still widely used by traditional telco providers, Airtel Ke is taking a major step in changing that status quo by becoming one of the first providers to use an exclusive model of eSIMs for its customers here in Kenya.
Now you may be wondering, what exactly is an eSIM? In this article, we’ll delve into its features and explains how it sets itself apart from your regular physical sim card.
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a type of SIM card that can’t be removed from your device. It has been integrated into the motherboard, and changes are made electronically rather than by physical swaps.
This allows for the ease of changing networks with just a few clicks, making the whole process much more efficient and user friendly than traditional removable SIM cards. With an eSIM, you’ll have access to various networks available in different countries at any time, making it perfect for world travelers who don’t want to be shackled to one phone provider.
What are the Pros and Cons of eSIM Technology
Advantages of eSIM Technology
Believe it or not, eSIMs have distinct advantages over their removable SIM card counterparts. From a convenience standpoint, an eSIM can measure up.
1. Ease of switching to a new carrier without any inconvenience
Switiching from one network to another can be done virtyally. For example, with eSIMs you don’t need to visit a physical shop or even keep track of physical SIM cards when travelling abroad, as a carrier can remotely configure the eSIM. Such an ability makes it easier to switch local carriers without having to replace your phone’s physical SIM card.
2. They are more secure than their traditional counterparts
When it comes to security, eSIMs help keep user data safe because they are virtually embedded into the device and can’t be forcibly removed. Identity theft is highly unlikely.
Disadvantage of eSIM Technology
Despite the advantages, though, there is still a slight downside. The eSIM only works with a few select high performance devices.
Companies in Kenya that have adopted eSIM technology
Today, Airtel Kenya has lauched this service and received tremendous public recognition days after Safaricom.
We look forward to seeing even more companies joining the market and start using eSIM technology within the country. This system’s advantages make it an attractive choice: with just a few clicks and no waiting time, customers can avail of services immediately.
Compatible Devices with eSIM technology
List of publicly known compatible devices with eSIM technology:
- Google Pixel 3 and newer Pixel devices
- Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer Galaxy devices
- Microsoft Surface Pro LTE
- Apple Watch Series 3 and newer Apple Watch models
- iPhone XS, iPhone XR, and newer iPhone models (combination of physical SIM card and eSIM)
- 2018 iPad Pro (alternative to physical SIM card)
- iPhone 13 and newer iPhone models with support for two eSIM cards and no physical SIM card slot on U.S. models
Conclusion
The emergence of eSIM technology is gradually changing how we think about SIM cards. With Safaricom and Airtel Kenya pioneering the use of eSIMs in the country, customers can now enjoy switching to different networks without needing physical SIM cards.
The eSIM technology is also more secure than traditional SIM cards, making it an attractive choice for privacy-conscious customers. While the technology is only compatible with select high-performance devices, we can expect more companies to join the Kenyan market and offer eSIM services in the future.