How To Convert from SIM to eSIM?

eSIMs are cellular connections that help you make calls and send text messages without using a physical anchor point, like a SIM. Phone manufacturers now embed eSIMs in smartphones to help you register them with your carriers. 

But what is an eSIM, and how can you convert your physical SIM to an eSIM? Let’s find out!

The Difference Between a Physical SIM and an eSIM 

A physical SIM sits on a SIM tray and slides into a device like a drawer. It helps in identifying your device and authenticating your network to your carrier. Compared to a physical SIM, an eSIM cannot be removed. 

The eSIM is soldered to your phone’s motherboard. It has all the functions of a physical SIM. The only difference is you cannot remove it without disassembling the motherboard.           

eSIMs may give you a tough time when you’re travelling abroad because you cannot remove and swap them with another local SIM to get coverage and avoid roaming fees.                

However, eSIMs can also make things easier for you. How? You can switch to a local carrier by scanning a QR code. It’s that easy. You don’t need to buy a new SIM. So, how do you make the transition?

Making the Transition 

You can transition to an eSIM easily with just a few steps: 

1. Activate your eSIM through your carrier. If your carrier doesn’t support eSIMs, you might have to shift to another. 
2. Open your “Settings” menu and click “Mobile Data” or “Cellular Settings.” These options would vary based on your mobile software, i.e., Android, iPhone, etc.
3. Find the “convert to eSIM” option. If you can’t see it, your carrier probably doesn’t support a direct conversion to eSIM. 
4. Tap on “convert cellular plan” to confirm your choice via the prompt. The activation process for the eSIM may take some time to complete. 
5. Remove your physical SIM from the device using a SIM card ejection tool and restart your phone when the activation completes. 
6. Make a call to someone to check if your eSIM is working. 

What Happens If eSIM Doesn’t Work?

There are a few reasons why your eSIM might not be working. A “no service” error is nothing to be afraid of. It might indicate a minor configuration issue or an error from the phone carrier. 

But if you scan the right QR code, chances are the eSIM will activate in a few hours. The SIM conversion can take time, so waiting 4 to 5 hours can be helpful. If restarting your device also doesn’t work, you can contact your carrier and ask them to fix the problem. 

You can also turn your eSIM on and off and toggle the switch a few times if you get no signals. Turning your aeroplane mode on and off is an old trick that usually fixes the problem. 

Thanks for visiting our blog, are you planning to travel to Europe? Check out our range Europe SIM cards before you take off.

Before you take off make sure to check with local government of the travel status.