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3 Challenges of eSIMs That Shouldn’t Be Overlooked and Their Solutions

Emerging trends are slowly taking over traditional technology. For example, AI-based predictive analytics changes how businesses market their products, perform risk analysis, and offer customer service. 

Apart from that, one innovation set to transform how we communicate through mobile devices is eSIM. According to the Federal Communications Commission, eSIM is a type of embedded tech that’s hardwired to the phone. 

The first commercial deployment happened only 12 years ago. In a short period, eSIM took over the telecommunications industry. For instance, in 2023, the eSIM market was valued at USD 1.22 billion. It’s also expected to grow at a twenty percent CAGR, reaching USD 6.29 billion by the end of 2032.

Even though eSIM offers flexibility and convenience, it’s not devoid of some obstacles. In this blog post, we’ll delve deeper into the challenges and their solutions.

#1. Compatibility With Mobile Devices

According to Is My Phone eSIM Compatible, not all phones are compatible with the eSIM features, limiting its widespread use. There are only a handful of recent smartphones or wearable devices supporting this.

These compatibility disparities can pose a significant challenge for eSIM adoption. The Pew Research Center reports that 97% of all Americans own some kind of cellphone. However, you can’t expect all of them to have the newer models, right? 

As a result, it can create a barrier for users who want to transition but are constrained by older models.

Beyond the hardware issues, people will also face software integration challenges. For instance, there needs to be seamless cooperation between mobile carriers, technology providers, and device manufacturers.

Is There a Solution?

Addressing these eSIM compatibility challenges is essential. That’s the only way the industry can ensure an inclusive and smooth transition. 

For now, users can look at the eSIM compatible phones as a solution to the compatibility issue. Thankfully, there are a few compatibility checkers online. Here, all you have to do is enter your smartphone model to understand whether you require a device upgrade to use eSIM. 

Technically, Apple’s iPhone XS, XR, XS Max, and anything beyond 2018 is eSIM compatible. Samsung’s Galaxy Fold, S20 series, and Z Flip can also have this technology. Moreover, you can use eSIM in Google’s phones onwards of Pixel 2. 

#2. Lack of Network Coverage

Industry leaders believe that an eSIM cannot function without stable network connections. Let’s say you’re in a remote area. In that case, there’s a high possibility that you’ll face poor cellular coverage and connectivity issues. In some regions, there can also be network restrictions that will hinder the eSIM’s performance. 

Similarly, eSIM adoption needs to be a well-thought-out process if you travel a lot. This technology allows users to switch carriers seamlessly. However, the reliability or availability of compatible network connections in different regions can be an issue.

eSIM support might also be limited. This issue can hinder your ability to fully utilize the connection capabilities. Sometimes, network quality disparities and infrastructure can also affect the user experience. Examples include dropped calls, connectivity problems, low data speeds, etc.

Solution for This Issue

eSIM is continuing to evolve. Hence, addressing these network coverage gaps becomes important. As a user, you can do the following things to verify network coverage and gain insights:

  • Check the current status of eSIM availability by visiting official websites.
  • Contact customer support to gain real-time clarifications.
  • Follow technology news outlets to gain insight into eSIM adoption.

Major companies like AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile offer eSIM coverage in America. But if you’re traveling to Europe, you’ll have to shift to Orange, EE, or Vodafone.

#3. There’s a Wide Range of Security Concerns

Like with any other ‘online’ technology, eSIMs are also not safe from a diverse pool of security concerns. The potential vulnerability involves risks associated with the following:

  • Storing sensitive data online
  • Digitization of personal information

An article by NordVPN states that eSIMs work on connected devices, making them vulnerable to phishing attacks, malware, and social hacking. Hackers will target this to gain access to your personal data and disrupt the services. Moreover, if they have access to your number, they can hack into your investments, bank accounts, etc. 

The interconnectedness also heightens the risks of cyberattacks and data breaches. For instance, you might have your personal pictures leaked from your devices if a hacker got into your eSIM. 

Is There a Solution?

Addressing these security challenges becomes paramount. The industry needs to offer the following upgrades to ensure safety:

  • Robust authentication protocols
  • Encryption of user data
  • Regular software updates
  • Multi-factor authentication

Implementing these will protect sensitive data stored on your eSIM. It’ll also help verify the identity of the users for safe access. 

In summary, we’re venturing into a new connectivity era where eSIM rules the market. Statista reports that by 2030, approximately 82% of all smartphones will be eSIM-capable.

Even then, every user must acknowledge the challenges and address them to better navigate the eSIM landscape. Examples include network coverage limitations, compatibility issues, and security concerns. Staying informed about the solutions will help you proactively manage these issues and eventually be able to adopt this technology.

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