An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM chip built permanently into your phone. Instead of inserting a plastic SIM card, you activate a mobile plan by scanning a QR code or downloading a carrier profile. The eSIM stores the same information as a physical SIM — your phone number, carrier details, and authentication credentials — but it's all digital. eSIM is rapidly becoming the standard. Apple removed the physical SIM tray entirely from US iPhone 14 and later models, and Samsung and Google are following the same direction. How eSIM works Every eSIM-capable phone has a small chip soldered onto the motherboard during manufacturing. This chip can store multiple carrier profiles — typically 8 to 10 — though only one or two can be active at a time. To activate an eSIM: Purchase an eSIM plan from a carrier (online or in-store) You'll receive a QR code (by email, in the carrier's app, or on a printed card) On your phone, go to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM and ...