Mobile connectivity is evolving rapidly with new technologies that simplify how people access data globally. One such technology is an eSIM, which is a digital, embedded SIM that allows users to manage mobile network profiles remotely without needing a physical SIM card. This innovation offers convenience and provides a practical solution, especially for international travel. Moreover, some industry reports forecast that the global eSIM market will grow steadily, with a compound annual growth rate of 14.3% expected between 2025 and 2032  [1].

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a small chip built into a mobile device that functions like a traditional SIM card but does not require physical swapping. Unlike physical SIM cards, an eSIM is programmable remotely, which means users can download and switch between different mobile network operators or eSIM service providers without inserting a new card. 

How Does an eSIM Work?

An eSIM works as a small virtual SIM embedded inside the device, storing multiple mobile network profiles digitally. To activate a plan, users typically download the network profile by scanning a QR code, using an activation app provided by the eSIM service or mobile operator, or by manually entering activation details if supported. This remote provisioning removes the need to physically swap SIM cards and enables quick switching between different carriers or plans.

Many eSIM providers offer intuitive mobile apps that help users easily purchase, activate, and manage their eSIM profiles directly from their smartphones. The activation process is managed remotely by mobile operators or service providers, who supply secure activation codes or profiles for installation. After the profile is downloaded, users can switch between different network plans without needing to physically replace a SIM card, allowing flexible connectivity across multiple carriers.

How Does eSIM Work for International Travel?

For international travel, eSIM technology offers significant advantages. Instead of purchasing and inserting physical SIM cards at each destination, people traveling abroad can remotely buy and activate local or global data plans on their devices. According to a study, by 2024, over half of connected devices in the United States will be equipped with eSIMs [2]. Another report claims that more than 3 billion devices are expected to support eSIM technology by 2026 [3]. This rapid growth in adoption shows how eSIM is changing the way people use mobile data internationally, making it simpler and more convenient to access internet services across different countries.

For detailed information, you can read our post on Best eSIM for International Travel.

eSIM vs Physical SIM: What are the Differences?

While physical SIM cards are removable plastic cards inserted into a device’s SIM tray, eSIMs are embedded chips built into the device’s motherboard. 

Below is a comparison table that highlights their key differences:

Table: Comparison Between eSIM and Physical SIM

For detailed information, you can check out our posts on eSIM vs Physical SIM and How to Convert Physical SIM to eSIM.

What are the Benefits of eSIM?

The main advantages of eSIM technology for international travelers include easier management of mobile connectivity by removing the need for physical SIM cards and enabling the use of mobile data abroad without roaming fees, often at better prices than those offered by local carriers.

Using an eSIM provides benefits such as:

• Activate mobile plans instantly without visiting a store.

• Manage multiple data plans easily on one device.

• Avoid roaming charges with local or international plans.

• Improved security since eSIM cannot be removed.

• Supports modern devices by removing physical SIM slots.

Additionally, eSIMs support international calling, voice, and SMS services, making them a practical choice for users who need reliable and continuous global communication [4].

Note: While some global eSIM providers like Roamless offer international calling, many do not support direct voice calls or SMS via the eSIM app. Calls and messages usually require third-party VoIP apps. Additionally, Roamless plans to launch the "Local Numbers" feature soon, enabling users to receive calls with multiple country codes within the app. For detailed information, you can check out our page on Cheap international calling.

Why Should I Use an eSIM?

You should consider using an eSIM if you frequently travel internationally and want to avoid roaming charges by easily accessing regional or global data plans. It simplifies managing multiple mobile data plans without the effort of swapping physical SIM cards.

For more information, you can check out our posts on How to Avoid Roaming Charges.

How to Use an eSIM

To use an eSIM, activate a mobile plan by scanning a QR code from your carrier or eSIM provider, or by using their app. On iPhones, you can add the eSIM through Settings or the provider’s app. Activation methods on Android devices vary; you may scan a QR code, use an app, or enter details manually. After setup, you can switch plans digitally without needing to change a physical SIM.

For more information, you can check out our guides on How to activate eSIM on iPhone, How to activate eSIM on Android, How to Activate eSIM on Xiaomi, How Long Does It Take to Activate eSIM.

What is Roamless eSIM and How Does It Work?

Roamless is a global eSIM service designed for international travelers who want simple data plans without the need to swap physical SIM cards. Users can purchase and activate data plans instantly through the app or website, enabling easy access to mobile connectivity and helping avoid expensive roaming charges.

Roamless offers two main types of plans to suit different needs:

• RoamlessFix: Fixed data packages valid for 30 days, ideal for travelers who prefer prepaid plans with a defined data allowance.

• RoamlessFlex: A pay-as-you-go option with no expiration on unused data, allowing users to add data as needed and carry over any remaining balance.

Key features of Roamless eSIM include:

• Wide Coverage: Available in over 200 countries with country-based, regional, and global plans.

• Device Compatibility: Works on eSIM compatible smartphones, tablets, laptops, and can be used as a hotspot for other devices.

• No Speed Limits: Provides up to 5G speeds without throttling or limiting your internet connection.

• Easy Activation: Activate your eSIM instantly via the Roamless app or website.

• In-App Management: Track your usage and manage your plans directly in the app.

• International Calling: Allows users to make outgoing international calls through the app using Wi-Fi or mobile data.

Roamless eSIM simplifies accessing mobile data internationally, providing convenience and cost savings for people traveling abroad.

For more information, you can also visit our post on How to Buy an eSIM.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does eSIM mean?

- eSIM stands for embedded SIM, a digital SIM technology built into devices that allows users to activate mobile plans without a physical SIM card.

What is the abbreviation of eSIM?

- eSIM is an abbreviation of “embedded Subscriber Identity Module”.

What is eSIM used for?

- eSIM is used to digitally store mobile network profiles, enabling users to connect to cellular networks without physical SIM cards.

How to use an eSIM for international travel?

- You can use an eSIM for international travel by purchasing a compatible data plan, activating it on your device, and switching to local or global networks to avoid roaming fees.

Can I use eSIM and SIM card at the same time?

- Yes, many modern smartphones support dual SIM functionality, allowing you to use both an eSIM and a physical SIM simultaneously for calls and data. For more information, you can check out our post on Can I use eSIM and physical SIM at the same time.

What is Dual eSIM?

- Dual eSIM refers to a device’s ability to support two active eSIM profiles at the same time, allowing users to manage two separate phone numbers or data plans without needing a physical SIM card. You can also check out our guide on What is Dual eSIM.

How does eSIM work on iPhone?

- On iPhone, you activate an eSIM by going to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan and downloading the eSIM profile. It works alongside a physical SIM, allowing easy switching between carriers.

How does eSIM work on Samsung?

- On Samsung devices, you add an eSIM via Settings > Connections > SIM card manager > Add mobile plan. It can be used with a physical SIM and lets you switch carriers remotely.

Does eSIM work without the internet?

- Yes, once activated, an eSIM functions like a traditional SIM card and does not require an internet connection to maintain cellular network access.

Does eSIM drain your phone battery?

- No, eSIMs do not noticeably drain your phone’s battery more than physical SIM cards. The difference in power usage is minimal and usually not felt in everyday use.

Sources

[1] Data Bridge Market Research. ''Global E-Sim Market Size, Share, and Trends Analysis Report – Industry Overview and Forecast to 2032'', March 2024. - https://www.databridgemarketresearch.com/reports/global-esim-market

[2] Juniper Research. ''Travel SIMs & eSIMs Market: 2024-2028'', April 2024. - https://www.juniperresearch.com/press/pressreleasestravel-esim-users-to-grow-440-globally-over-the-next-5-years/

[3] - GSMA Intelligence. ''eSIM Market: China and Beyond''. Accessed July 2025. - https://www.gsma.com/solutions-and-impact/technologies/esim/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/GSMA-Welcome-and-eSIM-Market-China-and-Beyond.pdf

[4] Business Research Insights. ''eSIM for Travel Market Report and Global Forecast To 2033'', 2024. - https://www.businessresearchinsights.com/market-reports/esim-for-travel-market-103147