The Advantages of eSIM: Changing the Way You Use Your Phone
With the advent of technology, we have seen the replacement of physical devices with digital ones, and the SIM card is no exception. The eSIM, or Embedded Subscriber Identity Module, is a digital SIM that replaces or complements the physical SIM card in your smartphone. While eSIMs are still not widely supported in many countries, in Nigeria, eSIM functionality is supported by major smartphone brands like Apple, Google, Samsung, and Motorola, as well as telecom service providers like Airtel.
Let’s take a closer look at the advantages of using an eSIM.
Greater Flexibility and Convenience
One of the biggest advantages of an eSIM is that it lets users change operators remotely from their phone without even acquiring a new SIM card. This means that you can switch between operators without having to physically change the SIM card in your phone. This feature can be particularly useful when traveling abroad, as it allows you to use a local operator’s network without having to buy a new SIM card or worry about compatibility issues.
See; How To Borrow Airtime From Airtel
Additionally, eSIMs let users store multiple profiles on a single device. This means that you can have two or more numbers on the same device and switch between them without any hassle. For example, you can have separate work and personal numbers on the same phone, or you can use one number for local calls and another for international calls.
Enhanced Security
eSIMs are just as safe to use as physical SIM cards. In fact, eSIMs can be programmed to request verification from an operator when someone tries to change the user profile. This means that if someone tries to access your phone remotely, they will need to go through a verification process before they can switch to a different operator profile.
Supported Devices
If you’re wondering if your device supports eSIM, here is a list of devices that support eSIM in Nigeria:
– Apple: iPhone 12 Mini, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max, iPhone SE, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, and iPhone 11 Pro Max
– Motorola Razr
– Google Pixel 3A onwards
– Samsung Galaxy Z Flip, Samsung Galaxy Note 20, Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra, and Samsung Galaxy Fold 2
Activating Your eSIM
If you’re interested in activating an eSIM, here’s how you can activate your Airtel eSIM:
Step 1: Change Physical SIM to eSIM or Existing eSIM to eSIM
To convert your physical SIM to eSIM or existing eSIM to eSIM, send an SMS with “eSIM<registered email ID>” to 121. You will receive an SMS for confirming the initiation of the process. To confirm, revert with ‘1’. After confirming, you will receive an SMS from 121 to provide consent over a call for SIM change. After providing consent, you will receive an SMS from 121 regarding the QR Code that will be sent to your registered email ID.
Step 2: Scan the QR Code
Scan the QR Code received on your registered email ID. Your eSIM will be activated within 2 hours. Additionally, your existing SIM will continue to work until your eSIM is activated.
Step 3: Add Data Plan
On your iPhone, go to ‘Settings’ and select ‘Mobile Data’, then click on ‘Add Data Plan’. Now scan the QR code and label the eSim.
Activation of Airtel eSIM takes approximately 2 hours after scanning the QR Code.
Related:How To Share Data On Airtel
Conclusion
In conclusion, eSIMs are a new technology that is changing the way we use our phones. With eSIMs, one can change carriers remotely without needing a new SIM card. This feature is particularly useful when traveling abroad or when you want to switch carriers without the hassle of visiting a physical store
