An eSIM is a SIM built into your phone. Which operators support it in India, what to check before switching, and how to avoid SIM swap fraud.
Table of contents
An eSIM is a SIM that is built into your phone instead of a plastic card in a tray. Your operator sends you a QR code, you scan it, and your number starts working. Jio, Airtel and Vi all offer eSIM in India.
How it works
The eSIM chip is fixed inside the phone. When you scan the QR code, the phone downloads a profile from your operator. After that it works like any other SIM, with the same number, calls, SMS and data.
Why people switch
- A thief cannot simply pull it out of the phone
- You can run two numbers even on a phone with one SIM slot, one on the eSIM and one on a physical SIM
- Changing plans or operators can often be done without a store visit
- No tiny card to lose
Check these first
Does your phone support it? Most recent iPhones, Google Pixels and Samsung Galaxy flagships do. On Android, look in Settings → Network & internet → SIMs (on Samsung, Connections → SIM manager) for an option to add an eSIM.
Changing phones takes a little effort. You have to ask your operator for a new eSIM for the new phone.
Do the setup on Wi-Fi, with enough battery.
How to get an eSIM
The steps are similar for every operator:
- Make sure the number is in your name and your email ID is registered with the operator.
- Request an eSIM through the operator's app, website, SMS service or a store.
- Confirm the request. Operators usually add a short waiting period for security.
- Scan the QR code you receive, or follow the steps in the operator's app, using Add eSIM on your phone.
- Restart if asked. Your old physical SIM stops working once the eSIM is active.
The exact process changes from time to time, so follow the current steps on your operator's official website or app.
Watch out for SIM swap fraud
Fraudsters try to get an eSIM issued on your number so that your bank OTPs reach them. Never share an eSIM QR code, OTP or confirmation message with anyone, and no operator will call you to ask for one. If your phone suddenly loses network for no reason, call your operator and your bank right away.
