The end of physical cell phone chips is near! Operators such as Claro, Vivo and TIM have already adopted eSIM, a technology that promises more security, flexibility and global connectivity
The telecommunications industry is undergoing a major transformation with the replacement of physical chips by eSIM (embedded SIM), a technology that is already being adopted globally. In Brazil, operators Claro, Vivo and TIM have already started to implement this innovation, allowing users to activate lines without the need for a physical chip. According to a survey by Juniper Research, it is expected that by 2025, around 3,4 billion people in the world will use eSIM as standard. The end of physical cell phone chips is getting closer and closer, as device manufacturers embrace this new technology.
The eSIM is a chip integrated directly into the device’s motherboard, eliminating the need for a removable physical card. This allows users to store multiple carrier profiles on a single device and switch between plans and services without having to change SIM cards. This technology also offers greater security against cloning and data loss, according to industry experts. The transition to this new model is already underway in several countries, including Brazil, where major operators already provide support for eSIM activation on compatible devices.
How does eSIM impact users?
The main advantage of eSIM is its ease and convenience. With it, users can activate a new plan or switch carriers without having to visit a physical store. The elimination of physical SIM cards eliminates the need for removable cards, simplifying the user experience and reducing the risk of loss or damage to the SIM.
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In Brazil, Claro was one of the first operators to adopt eSIM, allowing its customers to activate the service via QR Code. Vivo and TIM have expanded their operations to include the technology, offering support on latest-generation smartphones and IoT devices. eSIM activation can be done directly in the operators' apps, streamlining the process and modernizing the consumer experience.
The future of telephony with eSIM and goodbye to traditional chips
According to GSMA Intelligence, eSIM is set to become the global standard in the coming years as manufacturers of smartphones, tablets and wearable devices adopt the technology. Newer models from Apple, Samsung and Google already do not have a physical SIM slot in some versions, hastening the end of physical SIM cards as we know them today.
eSIM also is being implemented in the sector automotive, enabling 5G connectivity in smart cars, as well as facilitating the management of telephone services for companies that need to manage multiple lines. This evolution could represent a revolution in the way we deal with mobile connectivity in our daily lives.
Challenges and concerns
Despite the advantages, the transition to eSIM also raises some concerns. For users who use two physical chips (dual SIM), the change can be a problem, as some manufacturers still do not offer full support for the use of two eSIMs simultaneously. In cases of device failure, recovering the number can be more bureaucratic, requiring direct contact with the operator.
Another issue involves the cost of migration, as not all current devices are compatible with eSIM. This may lead some consumers to delay the transition. until the technology becomes more accessible. Still, experts believe that, in the medium term, the trend is for eSIM to become a universal standard, making the need for physical chips obsolete.