What Is eSIM Card & How It Works?

• An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card built directly into a mobile device. Unlike traditional physical SIM cards, the chip is already integrated into the smartphone.

• To use an embedded SIM, you install it on your device instead of inserting a physical card into the tray. The process is simple and typically takes no more than a few minutes.

• Most mobile devices allow you to use an eSIM alongside a traditional SIM card, or even use two eSIMs simultaneously.

• eSIMs usually work with smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches.

  Key eSIM Benefits at a Glance

• No physical SIM card hassle: avoid the inconvenience of hunting for local carriers or swapping plastic SIM cards.

• Cost-effective: Save money by avoiding data roaming charges with prepaid data plans.

• Global connectivity: Stay connected in over 190 destinations worldwide.

• Instant setup: Purchase online and start using your data plan within minutes.

• Environmentally friendly: Reduce plastic waste with eSIM technology.

• Security: Enjoy a reliable internet connection without compromising safety.

Learn more about eSIM benefits for travelers.

An eSIM card works through a small programmable chip that's built into your device.

When you purchase an eSIM plan:

• The provider sends you a QR code or activation codes (a combination of numbers and letters)

• You scan or enter these codes in your phone's settings

• The code acts as a message to the embedded SIM saying: connect to this network provider. It programs the chip to receive signals from specific carriers included in your eSIM plan.

• You can always remove an eSIM from your device settings, similar to uninstalling an app, and install new eSIMs as needed.

Your phone can store multiple eSIMs simultaneously, like having several SIM cards ready to use without physically swapping them.

This digital approach makes changing carriers as simple as toggling a switch in your settings menu, offering greater flexibility for staying connected anywhere in the world.

Quick Comparison of Plastic SIM Card and eSIM

Before using eSIM card, you'll need to confirm two key requirements for your smartphone:

• eSIM support: Your device must have built-in eSIM hardware—a digital chip that replaces traditional physical SIM cards.

• Network unlocking: Your phone must be network-unlocked, meaning it can connect to different mobile networks.

How to Check if My Phone Supports eSIM?

To verify eSIM compatibility, start by reviewing the list of eSIM-compatible devices for your specific phone model. Many modern smartphones, such as the latest iPhone models, Samsung, and Google Pixel devices, support eSIMs. However, it's always best to confirm your device's specific capabilities.

If your device isn’t listed, you can explore alternative methods to check eSIM compatibility. For example, consult your device's settings or contact your phone's manufacturer or carrier for confirmation.

Additionally, eSIM support extends beyond smartphones to other mobile devices like tablets and smartwatches.

What Does Network-Unlocked Mean?

A network-unlocked phone is a device that isn’t restricted to a single carrier’s network. It gives you more flexibility, allowing you to:

• Use SIM cards from different mobile networks

• Easily switch carriers without replacing your device

• Use eSIM to connect with local networks when traveling internationally


In the past, phones purchased through a carrier at a reduced price were often “locked” to that carrier’s network. While this practice is now less common—and even banned in some countries like Canada—it’s still important to confirm your phone’s status. If you're unsure whether your device is unlocked, check with your carrier for clarification.

Convenience on the Go

Purchase your eSIM before your trip and set everything up at home—even weeks in advance. Once you land, simply activate your eSIM. You’ll be online in minutes without:

• Searching for local SIM cards

• Dealing with confusing carrier deals

• Relying on public Wi-Fi

WonderConnect offers eSIMs for over 190 destinations, keeping you connected with instant and secure mobile internet. Access your data plan in just a few taps, giving you freedom and peace of mind while traveling.

Affordable Pricing, No Roaming Fees

Avoid unexpected roaming charges with eSIM data plans by:

• Using an eSIM card for your mobile data connection

• Easily switching between lines in your phone’s settings

• Choosing whether to use your primary SIM card for phone calls or sending messages

Prepaid mobile internet ensures complete transparency. You’ll know exactly what you’re paying upfront, eliminating the risk of bill shock while traveling.

eSIM Hotspot Capabilities

• Sharing data across multiple devices using the smartphone’s hotspot feature

• Stay connected for remote work and ensure seamless laptop connectivity

The hotspot feature is included with all WonderConnect eSIM plans.

Explore our guide to selecting the best eSIM for remote work.

Enhanced Security

Public Wi-Fi networks are often unsecured, putting your passwords and personal data at risk. With an eSIM, you can skip using public Wi-Fi entirely, ensuring a safer and more secure internet connection.

Most travel eSIM providers offer three types of eSIM cards, each with various data packages and validity periods to suit your travel needs:

Connecting to a mobile network abroad with an eSIM involves two simple steps: installation and activation.

The WonderConnect eSIM app for iPhone and Android provides detailed visuals and step-by-step instructions for installing and activating eSIMs.

eSIM Installation Process

eSIM installation is the digital equivalent of inserting a traditional SIM card into your phone. Instead of physically inserting a card, you input data into your phone’s settings to program the embedded eSIM chip for receiving signals from the local network provider.

Here’s how to get started:

1. Choose an eSIM provider.

2. Select your data plan.

3. Purchase the eSIM.

4. Install the eSIM using the method recommended for your phone model:

   1. Manual installation

   2. Automatic installation

   3. QR code scanning.

With WonderConnect eSIM, you can install your eSIM weeks before your trip. The installation process doesn’t affect your data plan’s validity period—the plan only starts when you first connect to mobile internet at your destination.

View the detailed eSIM installation guide for smartphones.

Mobile Data Activation Process

To use your eSIM for mobile internet, enable data roaming upon arrival at your destination. Some smartphones allow you to manage data roaming settings separately for each eSIM and SIM card.

How to enable data roaming:

• Open your phone’s settings.

• Go to the Cellular Data settings.*

• Enable data roaming for your eSIM.

• If needed, disable data roaming for your primary SIM card.

*Note: The name of this section may vary by device. Look for options like Network Settings, Mobile Data, or Network & Internet.

How to activate eSIM on iPhone
How to activate eSIM on Samsung
How to activate eSIM on Google Pixel

eSIM technology offers various options for staying connected while traveling. These range from data-heavy plans for frequent internet use to smaller packages ideal for short getaways. Factors to consider when choosing a data plan include your expected data usage, trip duration, and the number of destinations you plan to visit.

Key Factors to Consider When Selecting a Cellular Plan for International Travel

• Destination: Will you be visiting one country or multiple countries? For example, are you taking a week-long trip to Spain or going to explore Southeast Asia and visit Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam? This will help determine whether you need a single-country eSIM or one that works in several countries.

• Trip Duration: Different plans offer varying validity periods, typically ranging from a few days to a month.

• Data Usage: Consider how you’ll use mobile internet. For example, will you need data for work, or just for maps and messaging? For guidance, check our simple guide: How much data do I need for my trip?

• Top-Up Options: Verify if your eSIM plan allows top-ups. This feature lets you add data or extend the plan’s validity as needed.

• Budget: Decide how much you’re willing to spend on your eSIM data plan.

Carefully evaluating these factors will help you select an eSIM plan that suits your travel needs and keeps you connected throughout your trip.

eSIMs are a more eco-friendly option compared to traditional SIM cards. Regular SIM cards are made from a mix of materials like silicon, gold, and plastic, which makes them hard to recycle. On top of that, their packaging and shipping add to their environmental impact. eSIMs are a better, greener choice because they don’t require any physical materials or shipping.

Choosing the right eSIM provider is essential for seamless travel connectivity. At WonderConnect, our mission is to make eSIM technology simple for everyone. Our founders designed the platform to guide users through every step, from selecting the right plan to installation and activation. Here’s what we offer:

• Coverage in over 190 destinations worldwide: explore our eSIM plans for your next destination

• Prepaid eSIMs for single-country, regional, and global travel

• Instant delivery - your eSIM is ready to use seconds after purchase

• Competitive rates with transparent pricing

• User-friendly app for easy eSIM management and data usage tracking

• Discounts for family and friends: your unique referral code gives them $3 off their first purchase

Whether you’re new to eSIMs or looking for a better provider, WonderConnect is here for you. Download our app today and enjoy hassle-free travel connectivity. Let us be your trusted travel partner!