Everything you need to know about the eSim

Interest in the eSIM chip in Egypt has skyrocketed, with many wondering when it is arriving and what phones support it.

The eSIM is an exciting new technology that and comes as part of the state’s efforts to achieve digital transformation and expand the provision of advanced services.

What is the eSIM chip?

The eSIM chip is a digital communication chip integrated into modern devices, allowing for the possibility of connecting to the network provider without the need to use a traditional SIM card.

This step comes within the directions of the Ministry of Communications and the National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority towards supporting the technological infrastructure and achieving sustainable development.

Features of the eSIM chip:

The eSIM chip technology provides many features:

It works in various devices such as tablets and laptops, smart devices such as watches and various medical devices, and in car and smart home systems.
Ease of activation without the need to replace the chip cards themselves to use them.
The ability to obtain multiple numbers (profiles) in one device.
The ability to subscribe and download profiles remotely without the need to visit the service provider.
The ability to switch from one service provider to another at any time, without needing to visit the branch.

What is the difference between eSIM chip and the standard SIM card?

The eSIM chip is built into the device and cannot be extracted, and does not require a dedicated slot for the chip, unlike a traditional SIM card.

What are the devices that support eSIM technology?

Many modern devices will include the eSIM feature, such as:

All new Apple devices: iPhone XS, XS Max, XR, 12, 13, and iPad Pro
Samsung Galaxy: S20, S20+, S20 Ultra
Apple Watch (3-4-5-6-7)
Smartwatches: Samsung Gear S2 and Gear S3

What is the size of the embedded chip?

The size of the eSIM chip is much smaller compared to the traditional SIM card, and is manufactured and integrated with the device itself.

How is it activated?

The eSIM chip is activated by scanning the QR Code on the voucher provided by the service provider, through the official application of the service provider, by installing a specific package or even by entering the information manually or when transferring the embedded chip (eSIM) from the old device.

It can be activated from any service provider at any time and place, without the need to visit the branch, and the eSIM chip is activated once all activation steps are completed.

Using the eSIM

To avoid any problems when using eSIM, mobile companies will provide a device inspection service in their branches, so that the customer can know the compatibility of his phone with the new chip before purchasing it.

When is it coming to Egypt?

The National Telecom Regulatory Authority and Telecom Egypt have not officially announced the specific date for launching the eSIM chip in Egypt.

Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Amr Talaat, witnessed the signing of the second batch of fifth-generation service licenses for mobile companies operating in Egypt back in October 7.

Edited translation from Al-Masry Al-Youm