All iPhone 14 models come without a SIM card tray: What is an eSIM?

Apple's iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, and iPhone 14 Pro Max cannot be used with physical SIM cards. Instead, dual eSIM support allows users to activate multiple cellular plans on the same device.

It has been quite some time since eSIMs became available in India. There are already eSIM services available for iPhones from Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone Idea. India is not a stranger to eSIMs, but most smartphone users are unaware of the technology. Interestingly, not all Indian iPhone users activate eSIM. eSIM has again become the focus with Apple offering an eSIM-only model in the US for the iPhone 14 series.

eSIM stands for Embedded Subscriber Identity Module. It is a virtual SIM card embedded in a device that is activated on a supported device.

An eSIM works similarly to the internal memory of a smartphone. Data from the Subscriber Identity Module or SIM card is digitally transferred or activated by operators like Jio, Airtel or Vi.

eSIM does not improve internet speeds or cellular reception. Basically, it's a digital copy of your SIM card. You cannot have a physical SIM and an eSIM on the same mobile number.

Unlike traditional SIMs, eSIMs cannot be physically replaced. To swap an eSIM, you will need to contact your telecom operator.

eSIM support will be available for iPhone 14 series. As of now, it is compatible with iPhone 13 series, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone XR, iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone XS Max, iPhone SE (2020), iPhone 12 Pro Max, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max, iPhone 12 and iPhone XS.

It is recommended that you have an iOS 12.1 or higher phone before applying for an eSIM. Apple's use of eSIM technology in phones may accelerate adoption of the technology. As was the case with dual cameras, portrait cameras, notch displays, and Face ID.

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