eSIM
Technology & Computing abbreviation · Telecom
| Stands for | Embedded SIM |
|---|---|
| Categories | Technology & Computing |
eSIM stands for Embedded SIM, a telecom abbreviation.
SIM chip built into a phone, watch, tablet or laptop that can be programmed remotely with a carrier profile, replacing the removable plastic card. Users activate it by scanning a QR code or through a carrier app.
Example: I bought a travel eSIM online and had data the moment the plane landed.
Usage notes
The GSMA published the consumer remote SIM provisioning specification in 2016; the Google Pixel 2 (2017) and iPhone XS (2018) were early adopters. Apple's US iPhone 14 models (2022) dropped the physical SIM tray entirely. A device can store several eSIM profiles, making travel plans and dual numbers easy. The next step, iSIM, integrates the SIM into the main processor.
Related abbreviations
More telecom abbreviations
- DSL – Digital subscriber line
- DTMF – Dual-tone multi-frequency
- E911 – Enhanced 911
- EDGE – Enhanced Data rates for GSM Evolution
- EE – EE Limited
- eNB – Evolved Node B
- EV-DO – Evolution-Data Optimized
- FDD – Frequency-division duplex
- FM – Frequency modulation
- FTTC – Fiber to the cabinet
- FTTH – Fiber to the home
- FTTP – Fiber to the premises