Last Updated on: 9th September 2024, 03:18 pm
The development of digital technologies expands the capabilities of various devices, making use more comfortable and safe. Today, one of the most popular devices is the smartphone. Its capabilities are constantly expanding, so that just a few years ago, functions that seemed fantastic to ordinary users are now real. In fact, a modern smartphone, not only a premium one but also a cheaper model, is a pocket mini-computer for work, study, and entertainment.
Of course, everyone knows that in order to make calls, write SMS, connect to the mobile Internet, etc., you need to insert a SIM card into a special slot mobile phones. It’s interesting that this small and very necessary thing has been improved over several decades in conjunction with mobile phones and today is reaching a fundamentally new level of capabilities, functionality, and use.
In fact, new technologies, despite all their advantages, do not immediately win the minds and hearts of the majority of developers who do not want to adapt quickly. Implementing them in practice takes quite a long time, although it could be significantly shorter. SIM cards are no exception to this list since manufacturers introduced their new standards much more slowly than was possible: micro-SIM, nano-SIM, and eSIM.
Now, the eSIM standard allows you to completely abandon the physical card and replace it with a built-in one. Manufacturers are in no hurry to introduce this technology into new smartphone models and are so far limited to using eSIM cards only in flagships. However, you don’t need to be a great forecaster to foresee that the next important step in the development of technology is the widespread use of eSIM cards in new models of not only the expensive but also the mid-price segment, which are used by the majority of buyers. Thus, this technology will very quickly become widely used.
How eSIM works
First of all, it will be interesting to know that the first letter “e” in the name is an abbreviation for the word “embedded”. Its main difference from a traditional SIM card is that it is soldered onto the smartphone board. It was this step that allowed the developers to solve one of the important and complex design problems. Without it, it would be impossible to continue making smartphones more compact and, at the same time, placing new components in the body that allow expanding functionality and increasing capabilities. If you consider that in the foreseeable future, all smartphones will have wireless charging and headphones, and everything is moving towards this, then no connectors will be needed. In this case, the holes will only be needed for the speakers, which will make it possible to ensure the tightness of the case without great expense. It turns out that the widespread introduction of eSIM technology is a decisive step towards creating a completely monolithic, waterproof smartphone without connectors, which will not require additional investments.
The principle of operation of eSIM is very similar to the functioning of the NFC chip, which stores bank card data and allows you to pay for goods and services using a smartphone. The built-in SIM card works the same way. The chip stores all the necessary information that the user needs: mobile operator, phone number, tariffs, etc.
The built-in SIM card has everything necessary for reliable operation: a microprocessor, non-volatile memory, controllers, and even a simple operating system with which phone numbers can be recorded and, if necessary, tariffs and mobile operators can be easily changed. New technology makes using smartphones and other devices much more convenient than using traditional SIM cards.
Capabilities and applications of technology
There is no doubt that the new technology, which is already offered by all major mobile operators, opens up new opportunities. To make it easier to navigate all the nuances of built-in SIM cards, the advantages they provide, and how to use them in different situations, let’s take a closer look at these and other questions.
The main advantage of the built-in SIM card is probably its miniature size, which is half the size of the smallest traditional nano-SIM. This frees up significant space in the case, which allows it to be used for other purposes, which is especially important for such small devices as fitness bracelets or smart watches. Now, an eSIM card in the presence of a wireless headset significantly expands the functionality of these devices because you can make calls from them without a smartphone, which is very convenient while walking or exercising.
A traditional SIM card is designed for only one number, which many subscribers are no longer happy with, especially when they need to make many calls between different operators. That’s why most smartphone models have had two SIM card slots for many years. However, when using the built-in SIM card, you can simultaneously store 5 numbers in the device’s memory.
This makes it possible to connect to two or more mobile operators without replacing the SIM card. Those who decide to purchase a smartphone with a built-in SIM card no longer need to buy and insert it into the slot in order to start using the services of a mobile operator. To do this, just activate the eSIM card and enter all the information that is needed to start using it. Many users are not limited to just one device. Every year, the number of those who, in addition to a smartphone, immediately or after some time also buy a tablet, or smart watches also with built-in SIM cards is increasing. The developers of these devices provided this option in advance. Therefore, for those users who want to make calls, write messages, and access the Internet from all their devices from one number, this opportunity is provided.
Another useful function of such devices is integration into the IoT (Internet of Things) ecosystem with fast access to mobile communications. Any device equipped with an eSIM starts working immediately after installation, and settings can be changed remotely. The manufacturer is now able to collect and analyze information about the operation of each device with an eSIM card to solve emerging problems and improve performance in real time.
