eSIM stands for “Embedded SIM,” and that means it's a part of your device — not removable, like a traditional SIM card. 

What's the difference between a SIM and an eSIM?

A SIM card gives a device the ability to make calls and send texts. When you switch from one provider to another, they'll give you one of *their* SIM cards, and that's how you switch networks.

An eSIM also gives your device the ability to connect to a network, except it's using a software-based version of the old-fashioned physical cards.

So both eSIMs and SIM cards work the same way, except an eSIM can't be taken out, dropped, and crushed on the floor of a crowded airport. (Don't ask us how we know this.)

Once an eSIM has been installed on a compatible device, that eSIM can connect to different networks and provide affordable, flexible data.