eSIM is a technology that allows information relating to a mobile subscription to be stored on a chip integrated into a device, without the need for a physical SIM card.
The eSIM offers several advantages, such as the ability to easily switch operators, benefit from advantageous rates abroad, or have multiple numbers on the same device.
Indeed, eSIM allows you to manage multiple eSIM profiles on the same device , which can be useful for separating your professional and personal life, or for using different plans depending on your needs.
But how do you manage multiple eSIM profiles on the same device? Here are some tips to help you.
Check the compatibility of your device
First, you need to check that your device is compatible with eSIM. Not all devices are equipped with this technology, so you must ensure that your model is on the list of compatible devices.
For example, the iPhone XS Max or iPhone XR or later models are compatible with eSIM , as well as some models from Samsung, Huawei, Google or Motorola .
You should also check that your operator offers eSIM deals .
In France, the main operators (Orange, SFR, Bouygues Telecom and Free Mobile) offer eSIM plans, but there are also virtual operators (MVNOs) that offer this option, such as Prixtel or NRJ Mobile.
Subscribe to an eSIM plan
Once you've verified the compatibility of your device and your carrier, you need to subscribe to an eSIM . To do this, simply go to your carrier's website or mobile app and select the eSIM option when placing your order.
You will then receive a QR code by email or SMS, which you will need to scan with your device to activate the eSIM profile.
If you wish to subscribe to several eSIM plans with the same operator or with different operators, you will have to repeat the same operation for each plan.
You can have up to 10 eSIM profiles on the same device , but you can only use one at a time to make calls or connect to the internet.
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Change eSIM profile
To change the eSIM profile on your device, go to your mobile network settings and select the profile you want to use. You can then switch between profiles in seconds, without having to turn your device off or restart it.
You can also customize the name and color of each eSIM profile for easier identification. For example, you can name one profile “Pro” and assign it the color blue, and name another profile “Personal” and assign it the color green.
You can also choose which eSIM profile to use for each function of your device . For example, you can use one profile to make calls and send SMS messages, and another profile to connect to the internet.
You can also use one profile to receive calls and SMS messages from another profile. This allows you to optimize your plan usage according to your needs.
What are the advantages of eSIM compared to a traditional SIM card?
The eSIM offers several advantages over the traditional SIM card, such as:
- The ease of switching operators : simply scan a QR code to activate a new eSIM plan, without having to wait for a physical SIM card or visit a store.
- The possibility of benefiting from advantageous rates abroad : you can subscribe to local or international eSIM plans, without having to pay roaming charges or change your SIM card.
- The ability to have multiple numbers on the same device : you can manage several eSIM profiles on the same device, which allows you to separate your professional and personal life, or to use different plans according to your needs.
- Reducing environmental impact : eSIMs help avoid the plastic waste associated with the production and replacement of traditional SIM cards.
How do I cancel an eSIM plan?
To cancel an eSIM plan, you must contact your operator and inform them of your wish to terminate your subscription .
You also need to delete the corresponding eSIM profile on your device by going to your mobile network settings and choosing the “Delete cellular plan” option.
Can the eSIM be used on multiple devices?
No, you cannot use the same eSIM profile on multiple devices . Each eSIM profile is linked to a single device and cannot be transferred or shared.
If you wish to use another eSIM-compatible device, you must subscribe to a new eSIM plan and activate a new eSIM profile on that device.
Can the SIM card and eSIM be used at the same time?
Yes, if you have a device compatible with dual SIM (a physical SIM card and an eSIM), you can use both at the same time.
This allows you to take advantage of the benefits of SIM cards and eSIMs, such as having two different numbers, or using two different plans.
You can also choose which SIM card to use for each function of your device (calls, SMS, internet…).
