What Is an eSIM?
The complete guide to the digital SIM card, explained simply.
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a SIM chip built into your smartphone that you activate digitally with a QR code, with no physical card at all. For travel, you simply download a local data plan, get online straight away and keep your German number alongside it. Almost all smartphones from the iPhone XS, Galaxy S20 and Pixel 3 onwards support eSIM.
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card that is built into your smartphone. Unlike a classic SIM card, you don't have to insert a tiny chip: a digital profile is downloaded straight to your device instead. This takes a few seconds with a QR code. eSIM technology has been supported by most major smartphone makers since 2018 and is the new standard for mobile connectivity.
How does an eSIM work?
An eSIM works just like a conventional SIM card, only without the physical chip. Your smartphone has a built-in eSIM chip onto which different mobile profiles can be loaded. After you buy, you receive a QR code by email, scan it with your smartphone, and the eSIM profile is installed automatically. As soon as you switch on data roaming, your phone connects to the local mobile network in the country you are visiting.
eSIM vs. physical SIM card: what's the difference?
The biggest difference: an eSIM is digital, a classic SIM is physical. With a normal SIM you have to buy the chip, insert it and swap it when needed. With an eSIM you simply download the profile: no tools, no swapping cards. You can store several eSIM profiles on your device and switch between them as needed. Your existing main SIM stays active throughout, so you keep your German phone number and use the eSIM only for data abroad.
eSIM vs. SIM card vs. Wi-Fi hotspot rental
| eSIM | Physical SIM | Wi-Fi hotspot rental | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Availability | Instant (digital) | Shipping or pick-up | Pick-up at the airport |
| Installation | Scan a QR code | Insert the card | Switch the device on |
| Extra device | No | No | Yes (pocket Wi-Fi) |
| Return required | No | No | Yes |
| Keep your phone number | Yes | No (second SIM) | Yes |
| Price | From €0.99 | From €10 | From €5 / day |
| Multiple countries | Yes (regional eSIM) | No (one per country) | No |
Which devices support eSIM?
Most smartphones from 2018 onwards support eSIM. Your device must not be SIM-locked.
Apple
iPhone XS, XR, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17 and newer. All SE models from the 2nd generation onwards.
Samsung
Galaxy S20, S21, S22, S23, S24, S25 and newer. Galaxy Z Flip/Fold, all generations. Galaxy A54, A55.
Pixel 3, 3a, 4, 4a, 5, 5a, 6, 6a, 7, 7a, 8, 8a, 9 and newer.
Others
Huawei P40 and newer, Motorola Razr, OnePlus 12, Xiaomi 13 and newer, OPPO Find X5 and newer.
Check under Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM to see whether your device supports eSIM.
How to install an eSIM, step by step
- 1
Buy an eSIM data plan
Choose your destination and a suitable data plan. After you buy, you receive an email with the QR code straight away.
- 2
Scan the QR code
Open the camera app or go to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM. Scan the QR code from the email.
- 3
Confirm the eSIM profile
Follow the on-screen instructions. The eSIM profile is installed on your device in a few seconds.
- 4
Switch on data roaming
Turn on data roaming for the eSIM in your settings. It is best to do this at home on Wi-Fi.
- 5
Connect at your destination
After you arrive, your smartphone connects to the local mobile network automatically. Start browsing straight away.
Benefits of an eSIM for travellers
Up to 90% cheaper than roaming
Save compared with the roaming packages from your mobile provider. Transparent prices with no hidden costs.
Available instantly
No waiting for delivery, no queuing at the airport. Your eSIM is ready to use in 2 minutes.
Keep your phone number
Your German number stays active. You can still be reached by call and SMS.
No contract, no cancellation
Buy only the data you need. No minimum term, no automatic renewal.
Eco-friendly
No plastic SIM card, no packaging waste, no shipping. Completely digital.
Frequently asked questions
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