eSIM Glossary
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a programmable SIM card built directly into a device’s hardware, which allows users to activate mobile network plans over the air (OTA), without a physical SIM card. This means users can remotely download network profiles, instantly switch carriers, and connect to mobile data services on the go.
This removes the need for shipping, inserting, or replacing a physical SIM. eSIMs are ideal for scenarios such as international roaming for travelers or managing large-scale IoT deployments like connected vehicles, wearables, and logistics trackers.
The key advantage of eSIMs lies in their convenience and flexibility for both operators and customers alike. eSIM enables near-instant network changes without downtime, supports scalable management of thousands of devices through a single platform, and allows businesses to launch new connectivity services without being tied to a specific carrier’s physical card distribution
How Does an eSIM Work?
eSIM technology relies on the eUICC (embedded Universal Integrated Circuit Card) standard, which allows for mobile network profiles to be securely downloaded and activated over the air (OTA). Using remote provisioning architecture, an eSIM profile can be prepared by a remote server, known as a Subscription Manager Data Preparation (SM-DP+) system, delivered to the device, and then managed by a Subscription Manager Secure Routing (SM-SR) function for activation, suspension, or deletion.
Because this technology works without physically accessing the SIM or device, connectivity providers can update profiles, change carriers, and optimize coverage without any extra hardware costs or changes. The ability to switch networks remotely also means that devices can automatically connect to the best carrier for their location or service requirements.
How Are eSIMs Changing Connectivity for Providers?
eSIM adoption has been accelerating, as it directly addresses the limitations and challenges of the traditional SIM. This is no more evident than in the travel eSIM market, in which retail spend is expected to increase 500% by 2028. For global operators, the logistics of shipping, replacing, and manually swapping out physical SIMs are a challenge of the past, as well as reducing environmental impact and carbon footprint. eSIM also removes the delays, costs, and operational friction that come with physical SIM cards. Using remote provisioning, changes can be made to eSIMs instantly from anywhere in the world.
This shift has happened in tandem with the growing market for connected devices, from smart cars and wearables to large-scale industrial IoT deployments, all of which need reliable connectivity. For providers and operators, dynamic network selection means eSIMs have the flexibility to ensure the best available service without being locked into a single carrier relationship.
What Are the Top Trends in Wholesale eSIM?
The wholesale eSIM market is being driven by technological advances, including growing global demand for connected services and the need for more flexible, scalable solutions. For connectivity providers, keeping pace with these developments is essential to staying competitive.
Multi-IMSI allows a single eSIM to have the ability to store and manage multiple IMSIs (International Mobile Subscriber Identity). This enables eSIMs to seamless switch between carriers as devices move between countries or operate in different industry-specific networks. Combined with eUICC interoperability, this ensures that devices can connect to the most optimal network without any downtime, improving coverage and operational flexibility.
Is eSIM Secure?
As eSIM profiles can be downloaded and managed remotely, security is paramount. Providers must use GSMA-certified SM-DP+ and SM-SR systems to ensure that every profile transaction is authenticated and encrypted end-to-end. These systems manage both the secure creation and distribution of profiles and their lifecycle on the device, preventing unauthorized use or tampering.
Beyond technical safeguards, eSIM security depends on strict adherence to regulatory frameworks. The GSMA’s eSIM specifications establish global standards for secure remote provisioning, ensuring interoperability and trust across devices and operators. Privacy regulations such as GDPR also require that personal data is protected, anonymized where possible, and only stored for as long as necessary.
Additionally, many regions enforce data residency requirements, requiring that sensitive subscriber data remain within national or regional borders. Wholesale eSIM platforms can route and store data in compliance with local laws, while still enabling global connectivity. Together, these regulatory considerations ensure that eSIM deployments not only remain technically secure but also legally compliant.
What Are the Benefits of a Managed eSIM Platform?
Partnering with a managed wholesale eSIM provider allows operators to simplify deployment, reduce infrastructure investment, and accelerate their time to market. Instead of building and maintaining their own connectivity management systems, operators can leverage an existing, fully managed platform to access global connectivity through a single interface.
Using a managed platform for eSIM, operators can access enhanced visibility into connectivity performance, data consumption, and device behavior. This allows for faster troubleshooting, optimized carrier selection, and better capacity planning, all from one centralized dashboard.
This insight also enables operators to improve the customer experience, offering personalized deals or bundles based on customer’s usage data and patterns.
How to Choose an eSIM Provider?
Selecting the right wholesale eSIM partner is critical for ensuring scalability, reliability, and compliance. Beyond basic connectivity, the right provider will offer global carrier coverage, robust compliance frameworks for target markets, and seamless interoperability across diverse devices. Features such as proven uptime, advanced APIs, and integrated analytics also play a key role in long-term success.
A provider’s support capabilities, including ensuring smooth onboarding, rapid troubleshooting, and the flexibility to adapt to future connectivity demands, are also something important to consider. The right partner delivers more than just a service, but an end-to-end ecosystem for managing and monetizing eSIM connectivity worldwide.
What Support Should eSIM Providers offer?
Ongoing support is a critical part of any eSIM partnership. Telecom providers should look for eSIM platform vendors who can provide 24/7 technical assistance for mission-critical services, along with dedicated account management to coordinate deployments and resolve issues quickly.
Training and onboarding resources are equally important, ensuring that in-house teams can fully utilise the platform’s capabilities. Clear, well-documented APIs and developer guides help speed up integrations and reduce the risk of errors. By choosing a vendor that offers both operational and technical support, providers can future-proof their eSIM strategy and focus on delivering the best possible connectivity experience to customers.
Powering the Next Generation of eSIM Connectivity With Telna
eSIMs are already being embraced as the future of connectivity, and MVNOs and CSPs have the opportunity to scale faster, reduce costs, and deliver better service to customers globally. But unlocking the full potential of eSIM requires more than just technology; it requires a partner with the infrastructure, expertise, and global reach to help it happen seamlessly.
Through Telna, enjoy data access in over 200 countries, all through a single API. With our end-to-end connectivity management platform, we help simplify worldwide connectivity and deliver instant connectivity, simplified billing, and real-time control. Find out what makes Telna your ideal eSIM partner by reaching out today.
- What is an iSIM?
- What is Multi-IMSI?
- What is eUICC?
FAQs About eSIM
An eSIM is embedded directly into a device’s hardware and can be programmed remotely, while a physical SIM card must be inserted and replaced manually. Unlike traditional SIMs, eSIMs allow instant carrier switching, remote provisioning, and easier global connectivity management.
- Airalo
- AIRSIMe
- aloSIM
- BetterRoaming
- BNESIM
- BreatheSIM
- CMLink eSIM
- DENT
- eSIM GO
- Eskimo
- Flexiroam
- GigSky
- GoMoWorld
- Holafly
- KnowRoaming
- Maya Mobile
- MTX Connect
- Nomad eSIM
- Numero
- Redtea Mobile
- Roamless
- Soracom Mobile
- UPeSIM
- Ubigi
- USIMS
- Voye
- Webbing
- Yesim
- And more
These apps allow travelers to compare local or regional data plans, instantly download an eSIM profile, and connect to mobile data without needing to buy a local SIM card.
Yes, travel eSIMs let users instantly download local data plans when abroad, avoiding expensive roaming charges. Many MVNOs, travel companies, and fintech brands now offer white-label travel eSIM solutions for global travelers.