Do eSIMs have better signal than a physical SIM?

No, there is actually no difference in signal strengths between an eSIM and physical SIM card. Instead the strength of your signal will depend on factors such as network coverage, quality of the device's antenna, others on the network and what is in the way of the signal path.

Are eSIMs free in Australia?

It doesn't cost you any extra to select the option of an eSIM in Australia. Just make sure your device is eSIM compatible before you sign up.

Do eSIMs come with a phone number?

Some eSIMs come with a phone number, but it may not be instantly available when you activate it. This means you're able to have 2 phone numbers working on the on device if you have 2 eSIMs or 1 eSIM and a physical SIM loaded into your phone.

Can I convert my current SIM card to an eSIM?

Yes, you should be able to convert your current physical SIM card to an eSIM so long as your mobile provider offers an eSIM option.

How many eSIMs can be stored on an iPhone?

An iPhone can store eight separate eSIM profiles, but only two can be active simultaneously. To use two different service providers, your iPhone must be unlocked. Otherwise, both plans must be from the same carrier.

How many eSIMs can be stored on an Android?

Most Android phones can store multiple eSIM profiles but the number depends on the phone model. For example, some Samsung Galaxy phones allow you to manage up to 20 eSIMs. This allows you to use multiple phone numbers or plans on a single device.

Can eSIMs work without the internet?

When it comes to your initial activation, you will be required to download your carrier's profile, meaning you will need an internet connection. But after the eSIM has been activated, it acts in the same way as a physical SIM card.

Will an eSIM drain my phone battery?

No, an eSIM will not drain the battery of your device. It consumes the same as a physical SIM card.

Can I use eSIMs for smartwatches?

You can use an eSIM for your smartwatch but there's a limited selection of providers in Australia offering this feature. As it currently stands, only the big 3 telcos (Telstra, Optus and Vodafone) allow you to add a smartwatch to your plans via an eSIM, but it will usually cost $5 or so extra a month as a second device on your phone plan.

Will iPhone eventually be eSIM only?

While nothing has been confirmed in Australia just yet, mobile makers seem to be moving away from traditional physical SIMs. Since the iPhone 14 launch, Apple has only sold smartphones with eSIM support in the US. This means the phone is not compatible with SIM cards. We'll might get there eventually, but for now most iPhones still come with both a physical SIM slot and eSIM. The only exception is the new iPhone Air , which is eSIM-only - mostly because of its slimmer design.