Link: I was team eSIM, but now I want my physical SIMs back

If you often switch phones or carriers, eSIMs can be cumbersome due to QR codes or extra app downloads. However, most new phones, including all recent iPhones in the US, now feature eSIMs instead of traditional physical SIM cards.

From a practical standpoint, eSIMs should simplify changing carriers or adding new plans without dealing with physical SIM cards. Yet, the reality shows eSIM technology doesn’t always streamline the process as much as expected, with compatibility issues across various carriers.

Some Android models let you convert a traditional SIM to an eSIM, which primarily just frees up the slot for an additional SIM. Despite the option, there's often little benefit to converting unless you need dual SIM functionality.

Compatibility problems often arise from carrier databases not recognizing an unlocked phone’s IMEI as eSIM-ready. An unlocked device might, therefore, require contacting carrier support to update their records to enable eSIM functionality.

When it comes to eSIM adoption, Verizon's prepaid brand Visible shows extensive usage, with 75% of its customers using eSIMs. These users also tend to opt for higher data plans and make more use of additional features such as smartwatch connectivity and international travel plans.

Despite the challenges, eSIMs offer distinct advantages, such as facilitating the trial of new carriers or enabling easy international data plans without physical SIM swaps. They provide greater flexibility for users to explore different service options without long-term commitments.

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