Esim: All the information you need to know about the Esim card

L'eSIM is a integrated SIM card right on your phone: no card slot, no physical card to insert.

You can switch mobile carriers or plans remotely by scanning a QR code. The four major French networks (Orange, Free, SFR and Bouygues) offer it, and most recent smartphones support it.

The History of the eSIM: From the Physical SIM Card to the Integrated Chip

Visit early 1990s, phones used a 1FF-format SIM card, about the size of a credit card.

As early as 1996, operators switched to the format 2FF, the mini-SIM, whom everyone simply called “SIM card”.

The micro-SIM (3FF), introduced in 2003, became widely used starting in 2010, before the arrival of the nano-SIM (4FF) in 2012. The nano-SIM has almost no plastic backing: it is the smallest physical card a removable one that you can insert into a cell phone.

The real turning point is the’eSIM : a chip built directly into the device, launched in 2016 with the smartwatch Samsung Gear S2 Classic 3G.

Apple adopted it along with the’iPhone XS, Samsung with the Galaxy Fold, and Google as of Pixel 2 (initially limited to its own mobile service).

Today, every major brand offers at least one eSIM-compatible smartphone. While this technology is often limited to recent, high-end models, it is quickly becoming more widespread among phones sold in France.

What is eSIM?

L'eSIM (from the English «embedded SIM») is a chip built directly into the motherboard from your phone.

It serves exactly the same purpose as a traditional SIM card: calls, text messages, and internet access. The only difference is its shape.

In practical terms, you can switch carriers, phone numbers, or plans remotely, via a QR code. This chip frees up space for a larger battery and enhances the’waterproofing on the smartphone, because there is no open SIM slot.

As for security in case of theft, your carrier can have the device blacklisted’IMEI the phone, rendering it unusable on networks, whether it uses a SIM card or an eSIM.

eSIM Explained in a Video

Here's a short video to help you understand how the Virtual SIM :

Explanatory video in French by Alucare, ideal complement to the page. View video (you can use YouTube's automatic translation)

The Benefits of eSIM

Three benefits stand out in everyday life.

• Quick Activation : You connect to the mobile network by scanning a QR code, without having to wait for a SIM card to be delivered.
• Easy Management : You can manage your plans and lines from your customer portal; switching carriers doesn't require handling a physical SIM card.
• More security : No physical SIM card to lose or have stolen, with protocols that protect your data.

The same chip can store several profiles. This way, you can keep your French phone number and add a local eSIM when you travel abroad.

Comparison Chart: eSIM vs. Traditional SIM Card

Technology and Compatibility

To use an eSIM, two conditions must be met: your operator should offer this option, and your smartphone must be a compatible model.

Good news: More and more devices, tablets, and eSIM-compatible smartwatches are coming onto the market.

How eSIMs Work Technically

The chip is embedded in the device during manufacturing and is configured remotely. In the past, every manufacturer had to include a slot for a removable SIM card linked to a specific mobile network. Today, you can switch plans or phone numbers without having to deal with any SIM cards at all.

Devices and carriers that support eSIM

Here is a (non-exhaustive) list of the main compatible smartphones, tablets, and watches by brand. Newer models in these lines are generally compatible: keep in mind that Check your carrier's website.

When it comes to mobile networks, here are the French carriers where you can sign up for a plan or switch to eSIM.

Orange

Orange was the pioneer of eSIM in France. Starting in 2016, in partnership with Samsung, the carrier launched the first smartwatch equipped with an eSIM, and then became the first to offer it on smartphones in June 2019.

The eSIM costs 10 €, whether you choose it when you sign up or replace your standard SIM card. Switching from one eSIM to a new eSIM is free. You can request it from your customer portal or the"Orange and Me" app.

Free

Free Mobile has integrated eSIM into its mobile plans in December 2020.

When a new line opens, the’The eSIM costs €10, just like a regular SIM card.

Likewise, Switch from a physical SIM to an eSIM, or transfer your line to another eSIM, costs 10 €.

Bouygues Telecom

Bouygues Telecom offers eSIM for compatible smartphones starting June 2020. When you subscribe to a Bouygues Telecom plan, the switch to eSIM is free.

If you upgrade your smartphone with a Bouygues Telecom plan, keep in mind 10 € activation fees. If you replace your physical SIM card with an eSIM using a Bouygues Telecom plan or a no-contract plan B&You, the cost is 20 €.

SFR

At SFR, the eSIM is available on smartphone Since January 2020, and any new customer can choose it when signing up if their device is compatible.

She costs 10 €, just like a SIM card, whether you're signing up for a new plan or replacing your card. You activate it from your customer account or directly in the settings from your phone.

Where to Check If Your Device Is eSIM-Compatible

The simplest way:

1. Dial *#06# on your phone, or go to Settings.
2. If the device supports eSIM, you'll find a EID code via the following path: Settings > About Phone > Status Information (on iPhone: Settings > General > About)
3. If your smartphone supports eSIM, a EID number 32 digits appears in the list (on Samsung devices, under «Embedded SIM ID»).

If this information is missing, your phone isn't compatible. If you're not sure, visiting your carrier's website will clear up any uncertainty in just a few seconds.

eSIM for Travelers

When traveling, the eSIM changes everything: you can switch mobile plans without touching a physical SIM card. You can switch to a local plan by simply scanning a QR code, without having to look for a store once you arrive.

Why eSIM Is a Game-Changer for Travelers

Practical

The eSIM is permanently built into your phone. You can change the stored information without having to do anything physically, and get your activation code even before leaving.

Security

If your phone is lost or stolen, you can deactivate your line and transfer it to a new device. Be sure to check that your smartphone is eSIM-compatible before you leave. If you want to know if you’ve been spied on, other checks are also possible.

Economy

With an eSIM, you can avoid roaming charges excessive charges abroad. You sign up for a local plan, which is often much cheaper than your usual carrier’s roaming option. You keep your number so you can still be reached via WhatsApp or other apps.

Advanced connectivity

Even with an international cell phone plan, an eSIM is still useful: not all countries are covered, and it helps you avoid unpleasant surprises. It’s a convenient and modern way to enjoy a reliable connection wherever you travel.

Where to Buy a Tourist eSIM by Country

The process for purchasing a tourist eSIM varies from country to country. Here are the main destinations and their options:

• United States : AT&T, Holafly, Ubigi, T-Mobile, MobiMatter, Verizon.
• Europe (France, Germany, etc.): Orange, Holafly, eTravelSim, Bouygues Telecom, Ubigi, O2, Vodafone.
• Japan: MobiMatter, Holafly, Ubigi, Airalo.
• China: MobiMatter, Ubigi, Holafly.
• Australia: Holafly, Airalo, Ubigi, Telstra, Optus.
• South Korea: eTravelSim, Airalo, Ubigi, Holafly, MobiMatter.

You can purchase these offers online, at certain airports, or in-store. Before confirming your purchase, be sure to review the terms and conditions, prices, and the data volume included.

eSIM Conversion, Activation, and Management

Switching to eSIM is done remotely, without having to handle any physical SIM cards. Activation is based on a QR code provided by your carrier. Here's how to convert, activate, and manage your digital SIM card depending on your device.

Switching from a physical SIM to an eSIM

Start by scanning the QR code provided by your carrier. This code activates your mobile plan directly on the built-in chip. Your line will be ready in just a few minutes—no need to insert a SIM card.

On Android

On a android as the Samsung Galaxy and on most compatible smartphones, the process is simple:

1. Open the Settings.
2. Go to Connections, then SIM Card Manager.
3. Select Add a mobile plan.
4. Choose Add via a QR code.
5. Scan the code, and you're done.

Here's a video showing how to activate an eSIM on Android:

Explanatory video in French by Alucare, ideal complement to the page. View video (you can use YouTube's automatic translation)

For Huawei-compatible phones

1. Open the Settings, then Mobile Data Network.
2. Go to SIM Card Management.
3. Select the grayed-out profile.
4. Click on the button eSIM.
5. Add your eSIM.
6. Scan your QR code.

On iPhone: There are two options

On a iPhone, you can retrieve the eSIM profile by scanning the QR code with the app Camera. A link will then appear on the screen to set up your cell phone plan.

You can also go directly through the Settings from your iPhone:

1. Go to the tab Cellular data.
2. Press Add a cell phone plan.
3. Scan the QR code.

Here's a video that shows how to activate the eSIM on an iPhone:

Explanatory video in French by Alucare, ideal complement to the page. View video (you can use YouTube's automatic translation)

Manage Multiple Profiles with eSIM

With an eSIM, you can store several profiles on a single smartphone. You can switch between carriers or plans in just a few seconds, without changing your SIM card. This is very convenient when traveling: you keep your usual number while adding a local line when you're abroad.

Security and Privacy with eSIM

The security of an eSIM is at least equivalent to that of a physical SIM card. The profile is stored in a secure chip, built right into the smartphone. Your personal data is quantified and protected against unauthorized access.

Unlike a physical SIM card, an eSIM cannot be removed from the phone: no one can take it out to use it elsewhere.

If you lose your phone, contact your carrier to block the line. They can put the’IMEI blacklist your phone, making it unusable on mobile networks—whether it uses an eSIM or a traditional SIM card. You can also lock access to your profile with a PIN code or your fingerprint.

French mobile carriers apply the same data protection rules as they do for traditional SIM cards.

eSIM FAQ

What is eSIM?

A microchip built right into your smartphone that replaces the physical SIM card. You can manage your cell phone plan remotely, without ever having to insert a card into a slot.

How does eSIM activation work?

You scan a QR code provided by your carrier through your customer portal, or you can enter the code manually to link your phone to your plan.

Can I use several packages on a single eSIM device?

Yes. You can switch between lines as needed—for example, by keeping a local plan and a plan for international use.

How do I add or change an eSIM package?

Go to your smartphone's eSIM settings or your customer portal, then scan a new QR code.

Does eSIM work in all countries?

Availability depends on local networks. Before traveling, check the coverage and plans offered by carriers at your destination.

Can I transfer my eSIM from one device to another?

Yes, in most cases. You can reactivate the profile on the new device through the customer portal or directly from one phone to another on the iPhone and recent versions of Android.

How do I secure my eSIM profiles?

Lock your device with a PIN code or a password. If your phone is stolen, your carrier can block the’IMEI from the phone to render it unusable on mobile networks.

Does eSIM work with all devices?

It is compatible with many smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches, such as the’Apple Watch. The Recent iPhone models, them Samsung Galaxy and the game's Google Pixel are all compatible. Just make sure your model supports this feature.

Do carriers offer special plans for eSIMs?

Nope. In France, Orange, Free, SFR, and Bouygues offer eSIMs with their standard plans at the same price. The only charges are the activation fees (usually 10 €) apply.

Can I temporarily deactivate an eSIM profile?

Yes. You can deactivate a profile while keeping its data so you can reactivate it later. This is handy for saving money or managing your trips abroad.

Conclusion: The Future of eSIM

The eSIM is paving the way for a more sustainable future for mobile connectivity. By eliminating the physical SIM card, it reduces plastic waste associated with the production and shipping of cards. When you go on a trip, you can activate a local plan remotely, without having to buy or throw away a new card.

The benefits don't stop there. The space formerly occupied by the SIM tray can be used to improve the’battery life or photo quality. This integrated chip also facilitates the development of connected devices, from smartwatches to tablets.

There are still a few obstacles. Some older phones aren't compatible, and not all carriers are promoting eSIMs in the same way yet.

But the trend has been launched: most recent mid-range and high-end smartphones come with it, and major French carriers are already offering it.