eSIM technology has made headlines all over the world, and even more so with the release of the new Apple Watch 3. A lot has been said about this technology and many questions have been raised regarding it. What is an eSIM? How does it work? How will it affect my iPhone and my network provider?
Although Vodacom has confirmed that they will be supporting this exciting tech, it is not yet available for the South African market.
Here are some answers to the questions you might have about the eSIM:
What is an eSIM?
The eSIM is an electronic SIM card that completely replaces the plastic SIM card in mobile devices. It is an embedded SIM that cannot be removed from the device, and is only a small fraction of the size of the current Nano SIM cards used in smart phones and other devices. The ultra-small size of the eSIM is a well-suited option to independently connect compact devices (like smart watches) to networks, without connecting it to other devices via Bluetooth or other existing technology.
The eSIM and my Apple Watch 3 vs. my iPhone
We already know that the eSIM cannot be removed, as it is embedded into a device, like with the new Apple Watch 3. . The Apple Watch 3’s eSIM will be able to function independently from your iPhone, while using the same number. The two devices can be seen as two parts of the same connection. Simply put, it means that you will be able to make phone calls directly from your Apple Watch 3, without being in range of your iPhone. The eSIM technology will ensure that you stay connected, regardless of whether your iPhone is out of range, or even turned off. Your iPhone and Apple Watch 3 will, however, need use the same network provider for the connection to work.
Vodacom has confirmed that they will support the eSIM technology in South Africa, however the launch date of the Apple Watch 3 (cellular version) has not been confirmed as yet.