eSIM Explained Simply – Pros, Cons, Activation, and Usage in India
In 2025, you no longer need to insert a tiny plastic card to use mobile service. Thanks to eSIM or embedded SIM many smartphones now support a digital SIM that works just like a regular one, but without any physical swapping or handling.
But what exactly is an eSIM, how does it work in India, and should you switch? This post explains everything in simple terms.
1. What Is an eSIM? (Explained Simply)
An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a small chip built inside your phone that stores your SIM profile. It performs the same function as a physical SIM card lets you make calls, use mobile data, send texts but you activate it digitally through your network provider.
There’s no need to insert or remove anything from your phone.
Phones that support eSIM in India include:
- iPhones (XS, XR, SE 2nd gen and above)
- Google Pixel phones
- Samsung Galaxy S series, Z Flip, Z Fold
- Select OnePlus and Motorola models
2. eSIM vs Physical SIM – What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Physical SIM | eSIM |
|---|---|---|
| Needs to be inserted | Yes | No – it’s built-in |
| Easily transferable | Yes – to any phone with SIM tray | No – needs digital reactivation |
| Risk of loss or damage | Yes | No – built into phone |
| Easy to remove or misuse if stolen | Yes | No – can’t remove without unlocking phone |
| Dual SIM support | 2 physical SIMs (if slots available) | eSIM + physical SIM (dual standby) |
| Activation | Insert and use | Activate via QR or provider app |
3. Which Indian Networks Support eSIM?
Most major Indian telecom providers support eSIM today:
- Jio – Prepaid and postpaid eSIM
- Airtel – Prepaid and postpaid eSIM
- Vi (Vodafone Idea) – Postpaid eSIM for select regions
- BSNL – Still in limited rollout or trials
You can convert your physical SIM to eSIM or activate a new connection directly on an eSIM-compatible phone.
4. How to Activate an eSIM in India
For Jio:
- SMS
GETESIMto 199 from your existing Jio number - You’ll receive a QR code on your registered email
- Open phone settings > Mobile network > Add eSIM > Scan QR code
For Airtel:
- SMS
eSIM <email>to 121 - Airtel sends instructions by email and confirms via phone call
- Scan QR from settings to activate
For Vi:
- SMS
eSIM <email>to 199 - Vi will call you to confirm and send the QR setup details
Keep your phone connected to Wi-Fi during eSIM setup. Once activated, mobile data will start working automatically.
5. Pros of Using an eSIM
- No SIM card tray needed – more space-efficient and dustproof
- Use eSIM + physical SIM for dual SIM setup
- Switch operators without visiting a store (in many cases)
- Can’t be physically stolen or removed safer if phone is lost
- Ideal for international travel (add a second eSIM for roaming)
- Future-ready more phones now ship with eSIM-only designs
6. Limitations and Things to Know
- You can’t quickly switch phones you need to deactivate and reactivate the eSIM
- eSIM activation still needs manual approval or store visit in some cases
- Not all phones support dual eSIMs usually only one eSIM and one physical SIM at a time
- If your phone is damaged or lost, you may need to visit the store to get your eSIM profile restored
- Not all prepaid features or plans are always available for eSIM (depends on provider)
So while it’s easier in many ways, it’s also tied more closely to your phone which can be inconvenient in emergencies.
7. Should You Switch to eSIM?
Here’s a simple breakdown:
| Situation | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| You have an iPhone or Pixel | Yes – works well, reliable |
| You want a dual SIM setup | Use eSIM + physical SIM |
| You change phones often | Stick with physical SIM for flexibility |
| You want fewer physical parts | eSIM is clean and future-ready |
| You live in a remote area | May need to visit store if eSIM goes inactive |
| You’re not tech-savvy | Stay with physical SIM easier to manage manually |
If your phone supports it and you’re comfortable with the setup process, switching to eSIM makes sense especially if you travel, want a secure dual SIM setup, or just prefer fewer removable parts.
8. Is eSIM the Future?
eSIM is already mainstream in India’s premium phones, and growing fast. While not yet universal, it’s the direction the industry is moving in.
