If you are not familiar with eSIM:
In simple terms, eSIM (Embedded SIM) will change the traditional way of enabling mobile communication services via SIM cards in mobile phones. It enables a SIM card-free activation and remote over-the-air provisioning of a SIM for mobile network activation. The same applies to IoT devices’ IoT cards. eSIM will permanently alter the way individuals, businesses, and devices activate mobile communication services.
If you are a global traveler or someone who works globally:
If you struggle with switching SIM cards across countries or purchasing local data plans, a device supporting Apple eSIM technology will greatly ease your experience. Devices like iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR (models released outside of China) running iOS 12.1 and above, or a cellular iPad, will provide you with seamless cross-border connectivity. Stay online and purchase data plans directly from the Tenesim store. Note that iPhones and cellular iPads in China and certain other regions do not yet support this feature.
This article is perfect for understanding Apple’s roadmap for eSIM development over the years.
Apple eSIM will change the way its global users enable mobile network services.
Early Exploration and Preparation Stage (2011 - 2014):
- 2011: Apple applied for a patent for a virtual SIM card with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, proposing a method for accessing carrier wireless network services directly without needing a physical SIM card, laying the foundation for the development of eSIM technology.
- September 2014: Apple introduced the concept of eSIM with the release of the iPad Air 2, initially known as "AppleSim," which allowed users to easily choose and switch carriers.
Collaboration and Promotion Stage (2015 - 2018):
- July 2015: Apple and Samsung, along with other telecom industry companies, began negotiations to launch eSIM cards and formed a partnership with GSMA (Global System for Mobile Communications Association), with several carriers like AT&T, Deutsche Telekom, and Etisalat expected to support the initiative.
- 2018: The presence of code related to a second SIM card in the iOS 12 beta 5 firmware indicated that iPhones with dual SIM functionality would adopt the eSIM solution. In September of the same year, iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max were released with support for one physical SIM and one eSIM, though this feature was removed for the Chinese market.
Initial Application and Expansion Stage (2018 - 2022):
- February 2018: Several regions approved pilot programs for eSIM with dual device support, and the Apple Watch 3 became the first device to support this service.
- April 2022: Google’s Android 13 system started to fully promote eSIM technology and may support enabling multiple eSIMs from a single chip.
Acceleration Stage (2022 - 2024):
- 2022: The U.S. version of the iPhone 14 series eliminated the physical SIM tray and switched entirely to eSIM technology.
- 2024: New eSIM versions of iPad Pro and iPad Air were launched. Apple is expected to gradually remove physical SIM card slots from iPhone 17 and its series in more countries and regions by 2025, further promoting the widespread adoption of eSIM. Apple has already partnered with local carriers in countries such as Australia, the UK, and Japan to ensure a smooth transition to eSIM for users.
Future Outlook:
- Technological Innovation: As technology advances, the security, stability, and compatibility of eSIM will continue to improve. For example, more advanced encryption technologies will be adopted to prevent data leaks and tampering, and optimization for compatibility with different carrier networks will continue.
- Market Expansion: Apple will likely continue to partner with carriers around the world to promote the adoption of eSIM in more countries, especially in markets such as Asia and Europe. It will also expand the use of eSIM in fields like IoT and connected vehicles, enabling the Internet of Things.
- Feature Optimization: Further optimization of eSIM management features will make it easier to switch numbers, change plans, and manage communication services flexibly.
- Policy Promotion: Apple will actively collaborate with governments and regulatory bodies to promote policies that support the widespread adoption of eSIM, creating a favorable policy environment for its full deployment.
