What is the eSIM? All answers and clarifications

Learn all about eSIM and how you can make the transition.

The eSIM debate is not new. The new technology that allows you to change physical SIM cards has been in use for years, and at iServices our iPhones 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro and 14 Pro Max currently only support eSIM. This means that they do not have access to the conventional card. In this sense, if you want to enjoy the best of the latest Apple models with iServices quality and guarantee, you will have to change to this new system.

In this post we explain everything about the eSIM.

What is the eSIM?

The eSIM is a digital SIM card, that is, it is a virtual card where you keep your telephone contacts. eSIM is configured directly on the device.

eSIM on the iPhone was first introduced with the iPhone XR, XS and XS Max, but it was in September that Apple introduced the first smartphones without a SIM card slot. As for Android equipment, manufacturers such as Samsung, Motorola or Google itself with the Pixel have been adhering to the new style of card.

How many eSIM can I have on iPhone?

According to Apple, all eSIM capable iPhones can have multiple active eSIM cards. The technology itself states that “iPhone 13 models and later also support two active eSIM. iPhone models without physical SIM card support support dual active eSIM.” The latter case applies to iPhones 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro and 14 Pro Max sold by iServices.

Which operators have eSIM in Portugal?

At the time of publication of this text, you could request an eSIM from Vodafone, MEO or NOS.

What is the value of the eSIM?

At NOS and Vodafone, ordering an eSIM card is free. However, on Vodafone, switching and activating a physical SIM to an eSIM costs €2.5 (€2.6 from March 1st). NOS does not make a direct reference to the eSIM activation price. MEO, on the other hand, states that for prepaid tariffs, the eSIM costs €10, and for postpaid tariffs it is free.

How to buy an eSIM?

You must request the eSIM from your operator, either by completing an online form to send you the activation card, or you must go to your operator's store.

How to activate eSIM?

After receiving the eSIM activation card, you can configure it on your device, following the instructions on the screen.

Activate eSIM on iPhone

• Go to Settings > Mobile Network > Add Mobile Plan.

• Scan the eSIM card QR Code provided by your carrier.

• Click Add Mobile Plan

• Select your digital SIM

• Enter your PIN

• Click Continue to finish the configuration

Activate eSIM on Android

• Access Settings, then Mobile Network or Connections settings

• Click SIM Card Manager

• Additional mobile plan

• Scan the card QR code provided by the operator.

• Enter the PIN

• Note: the process and nomenclature may vary between devices and manufacturers.

At iServices we are specialists in multi-brand mobile phone repair. Whatever the problem with your device, our technicians will fix it right away and with a guarantee. Visit us at an iServices store near you!