4 reasons you might need an eSIM in your life
You might be surprised at some of the benefits that come with an embedded SIM.
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Been thinking about switching to an eSIM? Wondering how they're different from standard SIMs? Or are you reading this wondering what on earth I'm talking about?
Whichever camp you're in, you've probably got room to learn a thing or two about eSIMs. Plus, you might be surprised at some of the ways they can help in everyday life.
So, what are they?
Unlike traditional SIM cards, eSIMs are already built into newer, compatible devices. The user doesn't have to insert anything. Instead, they just activate the eSIM within their chosen telco's app.
So, what's the big deal?
There are a few big benefits actually, including:
They're speedy to set up
Want a new number or keen to switch to a new phone plan and don't have time to wait? As long as your device is eSIM compatible, you could have one in just a few minutes.
According to mobile provider felix, most eSIM switches are done in as little as 15 minutes. You activate your service simply by ordering and downloading your digital eSIM – don't worry, it's at no extra cost.
You can even choose to port your number (that's telco-speak for keeping your existing number but switching it to the new service provider) if you don't want to go through the hassle of changing!
They're greener
Since eSIMs eliminate the need for a physical SIM card, they're more environmentally friendly.
Think about the last time you got a SIM card. There's the plastic, the packaging, the production. Yes, they're small but it all adds up.
In fact, we're seeing a number of providers offering eSIM connections in line with their own sustainability initiatives, including felix.
The business is already certified carbon neutral by the government-backed Climate Active initiative and plants 1 tree a month for every active customer, via its partnership with non-profit One Tree Planted.
Now, felix is encouraging Aussies to embrace eSIMs as the next step in its push towards sustainability. It's estimated it could cut almost 100 tonnes of carbon emissions from its supply chain annually if every member switched to an eSIM.
They let you have 2 numbers simultaneously
Like keeping your work life and private life separate but find it annoying to carry around 2 phones? If your phone is a dual-SIM device, you can keep your physical SIM card while also activating an eSIM to have 2 numbers on the same phone simultaneously.
Just go into your device settings to select which plan you want to use when calling, sending a text or using data.
Aside from being more convenient, this is also more environmentally friendly as it reduces or entirely removes the need for many people to have 2 phones.
You want to be on 2 different networks
Like the idea of having 2 numbers? Using an eSIM alongside a physical SIM can give you access to 2 different networks.
This might be a good option for anyone who wants to make sure they have the fullest coverage possible. One carrier experiencing a drop-out or a black spot? Switch to your other one.
This means you can also take advantage of perks from multiple providers, such as free or discounted access to streaming services.
