What is an eSIM?

An eSIM works exactly the same way as a traditional SIM card; the only difference is that the eSIM is not a physical card.

The ‘e’ in eSIM stands for ‘embedded’, meaning the card is embedded into your phone. So instead of a physical SIM card, which is a removable chip that you can insert into your device, an eSIM is a software-based SIM card that is permanently attached to your device.

eSIMs offer a number of advantages over traditional physical SIM cards. Let’s explore some of the key eSIM benefits.

The benefits of eSIM

Multiple numbers, one phone

If you’ve spent years using a personal phone and a business phone, an eSIM is what you need to finally stop carrying around multiple devices.

Having an eSIM-compatible phone will let you hold multiple numbers on the same device. Like a dual-SIM phone, you won’t be able to use both numbers simultaneously with an eSIM, but you’ll be able to switch between them with ease.

Simplify your data plans

If you have multiple eSIM-ready devices, such as a phone, laptop, smartwatch and laptop, why not get them all on the same shared plan? It’s a lot easier than setting up separate plans for each device, and if you want to switch networks at any point, that will go much quicker too.

Make travelling easier

An eSIM is super convenient when you go travelling. Research your data plan before you travel so it’s all ready to download when you arrive at your new destination.

International eSIM plans can be especially useful outside the EU where roaming can be pretty expensive compared to local rates. Some local carriers may even offer special day or week-long packages specifically designed for short-stay tourists. Travelling inside the EU? Don’t fret. giffgaff has you covered with a 5 GB roaming allowance in all EU countries. Find out more about our data roaming charges here.

How to add an eSIM

The process of adding an eSIM will vary slightly depending on your device and the network provider you choose.

FAQs

Is eSIM as good as a SIM card?

Yes, an eSIM works as well as a SIM card. The only difference is that an eSIM is not a physical card.

Are there any downsides to an eSIM?

Perhaps the only downside to eSIM is that it’s not yet supported by all devices. This means that if you have an older phone, you might have to upgrade in order to get an eSIM.

Why use an eSIM?

Your old faithful, the traditional SIM card, still works perfectly well in most devices. But there are a few advantages to having an eSIM card:

Speed: You can be up and running quickly, without having to wait for a SIM card to arrive in the post.

Convenience: You can easily switch between networks, or have multiple plans without having to swap out SIM cards (and risk losing them!).

Flexibility: For dual SIM phones you can have two different plans on the same phone, or use an eSIM for a travel SIM when you’re abroad.

Does giffgaff support eSIMs?

Yes! You can have your very own giffgaff eSIM in three simple steps:

1. Check that your phone is eSIM compatible
2. Head to the giffgaff app. Go to Account > SIM > Replace my SIM > Switch to a new eSIM
3. Follow the instructions and you’ll be ready to go with an eSIM card in no time.

For more help on how to get your giffgaff eSIM, head over to this blog.

Can I use an eSIM card on my current phone?

eSIM is still fairly new, so only more recent phones will work with it. It needs to be built into the phone in the factory so it’s not as simple as a software update.

As a quick guide, these phones support eSIM cards. You can even get some of them new or refurbished from giffgaff:

• iPhone XS or later
• Samsung Galaxy S20/Note 20, z Fold/Flip, or later
• Google Pixel 3 or later
• Plus more: Oppo Find X3/X5/N2, Honor Magic4 Pro 5G/Magic5, Sony Xperia 10 IV, Xiaomi Mi 12T Pro

If you’re still not sure about your phone, check with the manufacturer, or ask the tech whizzes in our friendly community.

Can I keep my old number when swapping to eSIM?

Yes, of course! You can transfer your number from a traditional SIM card to an eSIM in the same way you would when changing from one mobile network to another.

To port your number to an eSIM, contact your current mobile network and request a Porting Authorisation Code (PAC). This is a unique number that your new network can use to identify you. Once you have the PAC, you can give it to your new network and activate your eSIM using the same number.

If you’re switching from a traditional SIM to an eSIM with the same network, this process will be even easier! Just let your network provider know that you want to keep your old number.

giffgaff SIM recycling

Switching SIM cards? Our recycle scheme lets you recycle both your old phone and your unused SIM cards, so you can be certain your e-waste is all disposed of safely.

If you’ve got any old phones or SIM cards, head over to our recycle page and help make the planet greener.