eSIM: What is an eSIM card and how does it work?
The eSIM, or embedded SIM card, is the modern evolution of the traditional SIM card. Unlike physical SIM cards that you have to insert into your phone, eSIMs are built directly into your device and can be activated digitally in just a few minutes. This technology allows you to switch carriers without having to handle small cards, manage multiple numbers on the same device, and instantly activate a mobile plan when traveling abroad.
Get your eSIM on voilà
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM is a digital SIM card built directly into your phone, i.e., a chip that is already inside your device. It does everything a traditional SIM card would do, but without having to insert a small physical card into your mobile phone. eSIMs offer many advantages, including allowing you to avoid roaming charges when traveling abroad and making it much easier to switch carriers. In addition, an eSIM allows you to use multiple phone numbers at the same time on a single device, which is particularly convenient for separating your professional and personal life.
eSIMs are available on the latest smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and even some cars! They are ideal for quickly switching between different plans and accessing mobile data wherever you are.
How does an eSIM work?
An eSIM is based on software built directly into your phone that replaces the function of a physical SIM card. As soon as you activate your eSIM plan, your device instantly connects to the mobile network, allowing you to make calls, send messages, and browse the internet just like with a traditional SIM card. The vast majority of recent smartphones already have this technology built in—to check if your device is compatible, see our list of eSIM-compatible phones.
To start using an eSIM, simply purchase an eSIM plan and activate it in just a few clicks. The process is entirely digital and does not require any physical manipulation of your phone. Your current SIM card can remain in place, whether you choose to continue using it or not. This flexibility allows you to keep your usual number while enjoying the benefits of an eSIM plan, which is particularly convenient when traveling abroad or when you need a second business number.
How do I set up an eSIM?
Follow these steps to start using an eSIM on your iPhone or Android device.
Set up an eSIM on your iPhone with the Voilà app
1
Choose your eSIM plan on voilà
Download the Voilà app and select the eSIM plan of your choice based on your destination.
2
Activate your eSIM in less than a minute
After purchasing an eSIM, simply click on the Activate card button and the eSIM will automatically activate on your phone.
3
Your plan will activate automatically.
Get ready for your trip: your package will be activated upon arrival.
Manually set up an eSIM on your iPhone
- 1.
Go to your iPhone settings.
- 2.
Click on "Cellular Data."
- 3.
Click on "Add an eSIM."
- 4.
Click on "Use a QR Code"
- 5.
Click on "Enter information manually" at the bottom of the screen.
- 6.
Paste the information that has been shared with you
Benefits of eSIM
eSIMs are the future of connectivity. Here are the main advantages of eSIMs.
Instant activation
The eSIM activates in minutes without waiting for delivery or going to a store. Just scan a QR code to get connected immediately.
Multi-profiles
You can use multiple numbers on the same device, ideal for separating your professional and personal life. Store up to 5 different profiles and switch between them as needed.
Savings abroad
The eSIM allows you to avoid roaming charges by easily adding a local plan when traveling. No need to search for a store when you arrive.
Enhanced security
Impossible to lose, break, or remove, the eSIM can be remotely deactivated if your phone is stolen. Your data is better protected against physical hacking.
Simplified carrier change
Test different carriers without any physical handling and compare offers freely. The cancellation and activation process becomes entirely digital.
What is the difference between an eSIM and a physical SIM card?
The main difference between an eSIM and a regular SIM card is that an eSIM is digital, while a SIM card is a physical chip.
eSIM | SIM | |
|---|---|---|
Active lines | Multi-line: manage multiple profiles simultaneously | Only one active line per card |
Change of operator | Instant and fully digital | Requires a new physical card |
Profile management | Remote digital deletion | Manually removing the card from the phone |
Commissioning | Immediate activation via QR code or app | Delivery time or in-store pickup required |
Compatible devices | Recent smartphones, tablets, and watches | All types of devices, both old and new |
International travel | Add local plans in just a few clicks, with no roaming charges | High roaming charges or mandatory purchase of a local SIM card |
Flexibility of packages | Store and switch between multiple carriers according to your needs | Limited to one operator at a time |
Protection and durability | Integrated and tamper-proof, resistant to theft and cloning | Vulnerable to withdrawal, loss, and cloning |
How can you tell if your phone is compatible with an eSIM?
Instantly check if your device supports eSIM technology.