eSIM vs eUICC: What’s the Difference?

When we refer to our smartphone's connectivity, it's quite normal to get confused when using certain terms, such as eSIM and eUICC. This situation occurs fairly frequently if we're not used to talking about these types of technologies.

One of the determining aspects that allow us to understand the differences is that while eSIM refers to the hardware, eUICC is the software that allows you to manage operator profiles remotely. In this article, we'll tell you everything you need to know about both concepts.

What is an eSIM?

Let's start at the beginning, explaining exactly what an eSIM is. It's a small chip soldered directly into the device's hardware. This is one of the main differences compared to traditional physical SIM cards, which offer the ability to remove and swap them for others at any time.

The virtual SIM card, also known as an eSIM, remains permanently integrated into the device, and there's no way to extract its data in order to use it. It's important to keep in mind that this technology isn't unique to mobile devices; it's also found in smartwatches and tablets.

The main benefit it offers is that it's not necessary to physically change SIM cards when switching carriers; the entire process is done remotely. Furthermore, configuration is much simpler and faster. And therefore, the security it offers is improved, as it avoids the classic SIM swaps that have become so popular in recent years.

What is eUICC?

Now that we've explained eSIM, let's move on to eUICC. This term refers to the operating system that allows the eSIM to remotely store and manage different operator profiles. In other words, it's the software platform that offers us the option of having multiple cards installed in our devices so we can use them interchangeably. This way, we can change operators without having to insert a new physical SIM card.

This technology is key for a large number of people and organizations. For example, frequent travelers can use different profiles depending on their needs. Companies and IoT device manufacturers also benefit from it to offer more options to their customers.

eSIM vs eUICC: What’s the Difference?

The first thing to keep in mind is that we are talking about completely different but closely related concepts. It's essential to understand their characteristics and main aspects in order to differentiate eSIM vs eUICC.

Why does this matter for users and businesses?

Although we don't always know what other technologies are present in our smartphones, the reality is that for many people and businesses, this type of technology is essential for meeting their customers' needs. Some of the main reasons for this growing popularity are the following:

• Much easier operator switching: Historically, switching operators required waiting for the new company to send us the SIM card, and then the portability process began. Now, we can switch operators much more quickly.
• A better experience when traveling: Frequent travelers are one of the main audiences targeted by this type of technology. With an eUICC, you can switch from a local profile to a service provider dedicated to offering eSIM cards for travel at any time.
  
  With Blink eSIM, for example, we offer you the opportunity to enjoy an eSIM card that allows you to travel in more than 190 countries and is also compatible with your primary SIM. That is, you can use both at the same time without any problems. This offers you great flexibility and also gives you the option of unlimited data worldwide.
  
• A technology adapted for IoT devices: The term IoT refers to the so-called Internet of Things. With this technology, devices can be managed remotely on a large scale, with all the benefits this can bring.
• Greater sustainability: Another benefit we don't always point out is the improvement it offers in terms of sustainability. By eliminating physical shipments of traditional SIM cards, the waste generated during manufacturing and shipping is reduced.

What are the benefits of an eSIM with eUICC?

An eSIM without eUICC technology wouldn't be able to exploit the full potential offered when both technologies are combined. Therefore, the experience would be quite limited. When we combine both technologies, we gain very interesting benefits – 

• We can manage different profiles from our smartphones. This way, it's possible to have different phone numbers installed on our smartphones and enable them based on our needs.
• Furthermore, we can also work with multiple carriers at the same time without having to add any additional processes to our smartphones.
• The travel experience is also completely renewed, as they can have their primary SIM enabled and, in addition, the eSIM. Both at the same time.
• Waste is considerably reduced as no physical device is required to operate.
• Any action we want to perform with our eSIM is practically instantaneous. All we need to do is scan the QR code on it and activate it. 

Are eSIM and eUICC the same thing?

Having read this far, it's probably clear to you that, indeed, both technologies are not the same. However, it's interesting to remember their main difference:

• The eSIM is the physical device that replaces the physical SIM we're all familiar with.
• The eUICC is the platform that allows us to remotely change carriers at any time.

As we've seen, eSIM and eUICC are two technologies with very different characteristics despite the fact that they are both interrelated. While the eSIM is the device that replaces the physical SIM, the eUICC is the operating system that helps manage it. 

It's important to keep in mind that both technologies are essential for both frequent travelers and businesses, so we should always keep them in mind.

Finally, at Blink eSIM, we offer a Flat rate eSIM that lets you enjoy unlimited data and 5G coverage in more than 190 countries. Best of all, the price is €3.50 + VAT, and the SIM is valid for two years, so you can use it on your next trips without any limitations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can a device have an eSIM but not be compatible with eUICC?

Yes, although it is not common, we can find devices that are compatible with the eSIM chip but do not allow remote management. Therefore, we should inform ourselves before making any type of purchase.

Is eUICC the same as a virtual SIM?

No, the term "virtual SIM" refers to any card that is not a physical one. eUICC refers to a specific standard that allows the management of an eSIM.

Which is more important: eSIM or eUICC?

If you want a 100% optimized experience, both technologies are essential. If our smartphone supports eUICC, we can now switch carriers remotely. However, it's essential to have both technologies at all times.