What is an eSIM? How do you switch to using an eSIM?

If you're curious about what an eSIM is and how eSIM technology is applied in life, read on to understand more about eSIMs.

I. What is an eSIM?

An eSIM is an embedded SIM that is smaller and used to replace the current physical SIMs. It is soldered onto the device's circuit board during manufacturing and is not removable like a physical SIM, yet it still functions fully like a regular SIM card.

II. Benefits of eSIM

Using an eSIM provides numerous benefits to users, such as:

• eSIMs are very small, with dimensions under 5x5mm, allowing devices to be more modern and compact.
• It is integrated into the device, so you cannot remove it, which reduces the likelihood of loss or damage. It also helps to keep dust and debris from penetrating the SIM slot.
• Network carriers can be easily switched through software, enhancing user experience.

III. Products in Vietnam that support eSIM

In Vietnam, there are many devices that support eSIM, such as:

• iPhones supporting eSIM: iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max, iPhone 12 (iOS version 12.1 beta or later), except for models from China which only support two physical SIMs and do not support eSIM. Therefore, users need to check the device's specifications before registering for an eSIM.
• Android phones that support eSIM: Google Pixel 2XL, Google Pixel 2, Nuu Mobile X5, Google Pixel 3, Nexus 6P, Nexus 6, Nexus 5X, Samsung Galaxy S20, Samsung Galaxy S20+ (Plus), LG v35 ThinQ, Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra,

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip, Moto G6, Moto X4, LG G7 ThinQ, Mi Max 3 (Chinese version), Mi Note 3 (Chinese version).

• Smart Watches supporting eSIM: Apple Watch series 5, Apple Watch series 3 LTE, Apple Watch series 4, Samsung Gear S2, Samsung Gear S3, Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2, Samsung Galaxy Watch LTE.
• Tablets supporting eSIM: Apple iPad Pro.

IV. Considerations when switching from a regular SIM to an eSIM from Vietnamese carriers

1. Viettel

Since February 1, 2019, Viettel has provided eSIMs through its direct store system. Customers who wish to use an eSIM can contact the nearest Viettel Transaction Point.

• For new customers: A valid ID card or citizen identification is required.
• For customers switching from physical SIM to eSIM: ID card + the physical SIM that needs to be exchanged is required.

After completing the necessary procedures, that Viettel staff will provide you with a QR code containing the phone number information, and activation can be done through the camera app (or a QR code scanning app available on the device).

2. MobiFone

• Documents to prepare: Identification card or citizen identity card + SIM currently in use.
• Location for SIM exchange: At MobiFone stores nationwide.
• Fee for changing from a regular SIM to eSIM: 25,000 VND per SIM.

After completing all procedures, the store staff will support you in scanning the eSIM QR code into your device for use.

3. Vinaphone

Customers can switch to a Vinaphone eSIM at home or at the chain of Vinaphone stores. Documents and procedures required when converting a physical SIM to eSIM:

• Identification card or citizen identity card
• The physical SIM currently in use.