iSIM versus eSIM: What is the Difference?

Patrick Mutabazi
3 min readJun 29, 2023

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Mobile devices can connect to cellular networks via little chips called SIM cards, sometimes known as subscriber identity modules. They save data regarding the user’s account, including their phone number and IMSI number (International Mobile Subscriber Identity).

iSIMs and eSIMs are two new types of SIM cards that have appeared in recent years. While iSIMs are integrated SIM cards, eSIMs are embedded SIM cards. Both sorts of cards provide benefits over conventional SIM cards, but they also differ significantly in some important ways.

What is an iSIM?

An even more recent version of SIM card is the iSIM, which is built right into the device’s processor. This indicates that the iSIM card is not only integrated into the hardware of the smartphone but also linked to the processor and other parts of the device. Because of this, iSIM cards are even more effective and secure than eSIMs.

What features do eSIMs and iSIMs have in common?

Both eSIMs and iSIMs have several benefits over conventional SIM cards. Compared to standard SIM cards, they are more compact and smaller, which might free up space in gadgets. In order to make it simpler for users to activate their devices and add new cellular plans, they can also be provided over-the-air.

What distinctions may be made between eSIMs and iSIMs?

The location of the SIM card is the primary distinction between eSIMs and iSIMs. The hardware of the device contains eSIMs, but they are not wired to the processor. Since iSIMs are built right into the device’s processor, they are even safer and more effective.

The provisioning process is another distinction between eSIMs and iSIMs. While iSIMs need to be provisioned by the device maker, eSIMs can be provisioned over-the-air. This indicates that carriers do not support iSIMs as broadly as they do eSIMs.

Which one is better, eSIM or iSIM?

Your specific requirements and preferences will determine which SIM card type is ideal for you. An eSIM is an excellent choice if you’re searching for a tiny, small SIM card that can be provisioned over-the-air. An iSIM is a great option if you’re seeking for a SIM card that is even more effective and secure.

Key differences between eSIMs and iSIMs:

eSIM

Location — Embedded in the device’s hardware

Provisioning — Over-the-air

Security —More secure than traditional SIM cards

Efficiency — More efficient than traditional SIM cards

Availability — More widely supported by carriers

iSIM

Location — Integrated into the device’s processor

Provisioning — By the device manufacturer

Security — Even more secure than eSIMs

Efficiency —Even more efficient than eSIMs

Availability —Less widely supported by carriers

The future of SIM cards

Although eSIMs and iSIMs are still fairly new technology, they are rapidly gaining acceptance. The classic SIM card will probably be phased out in favour of eSIMs and iSIMs in the future. This is due to their many benefits over conventional SIM cards, including their tiny size, capacity for over-the-air provisioning, better security, and effectiveness.

Conclusion

The new SIM card varieties known as iSIMs and eSIMs both have benefits over conventional SIM cards. Even though iSIMs are more effective and secure than eSIMs, carriers do not support them as broadly. The finest SIM card for you will ultimately depend on your unique demands and preferences.

Additional information about iSIMs and eSIMs:

  • Since iSIMs are built into the device’s processor, they are more secure than eSIMs. As a result, it is more challenging for hackers to access the iSIM card or its data.
  • Due to its ability to connect directly with the device’s processor, iSIMs are also more effective than eSIMs. By doing this, less power is required to run the iSIM card.

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Patrick Mutabazi
Patrick Mutabazi

Written by Patrick Mutabazi

For more exclusive detailed content, join my Patreon - www.patreon.com/pmadvisory SMARTCards & Emerging Technology Advisory/Consulting.

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