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Today, the transition from physical carriers to electronic ones is the main task of IT specialists around the world. The main reason for that is unsafeness of the the first data storage devices: they can be lost, stolen, or damaged. So, we are moving forward to electronic versions that are protected from many life factors and store information with several levels of protection. The process of transition to virtual electronic technologies also took place in the field of cellular communications. For example, the release of eSIM has opened up new opportunities for convenient use of modern devices.
Embedded SIM was first introduced to the high-tech market and new gadgets in 2016. Since it is a relatively new feature, many people are not well familiar with it and wonder how to use eSIM, especially with a SIM card at the same time. This is relevant for many owners of new mobile phones as nowadays most of them have inside them form factor that provides the ability to physical and electronic slots at once.
It’s also worth remembering about territorial restrictions. For example, the use of eSIM is not fully available in China, Hong Kong, and Macao. Moreover, there are currently limitations on smartphones that can simultaneously use two types of SIM cards from different carriers. But most likely you are reading this article on a phone that supports this feature as all the industry favorites have been releasing devices with eSIM for several years now.
Related: “Can I use iMessage with e-SIM without a physical SIM?“
Can I Use eSIM and Physical SIM at the Same Time?
Simultaneous use of a physical and virtual SIM is the first thought in the case of any modern smartphone. Data transmission over the internet and voice communication features make it a potentially feasible idea. Because on business trips and vacations, travel, you always apply for services to a local telecom operator, in a hurry looking for the most favorable price in mobile communication shops. However, now there is no need to waste time and experience anxiety. You can make your life more simple and convenient by using eSIM.
This is a perfect solution when it is necessary to make calls without overpaying for roaming, while for messaging you can use your own SIM card. In this case, there is also an opportunity to set up forwarding to two SIMs at once, so you won’t miss any calls incoming to the phone with eSIM. This way you will be able to manage 2 phone numbers on one phone. If one of the cards for some reason is not active, you will receive incoming calls to the second one.
Using two cards at once is not a problem either unless a smartphone doesn’t provide such an opportunity. Some of them even allow using two eSIMs at the same time. For example, this option is available on the 13th generation iPhone and higher. Modifications below the thirteenth version as well as XS and XR allow users to operate only one physical and one virtual SIM each at a time.
Things to know:
- Receiving calls to one number while talking on another one requires activating the Wi-Fi Calls feature. It’s also important to note that if the wireless connection is disabled, calls will be made according to the tariff plan of the mobile provider.
- If for some reason both eSIM and physical SIM cannot be called, the call will be forwarded to an answering machine. But if it is not available too, the call will be missed without receiving any appropriate notification.
- You also won’t be able to take a call incoming to another number in case of ongoing conversation via SMS or MMS. To do this, it is necessary to end the text conversation.
Add Up to 10 MFF2: M2M Form Factor, Use Two Active eSIMs
This may sound impossible, but the latest smartphones allow you to activate and use up to ten eSIMs. This option is especially convenient for people who need to operate several cell phone numbers and tariff plans for various tasks. Here is a guide on how to use eSIM and switch between multiple of them on iPhone:
1. Open the settings menu.
2. Proceed to the second section and search for the icon with the receiving point on a green background called “Cellular”.
3. There will be an opportunity to work with basic SIM configurations as well as the option to add multiple MFF2: M2M Form Factor.
4. Configure proper settings.
In addition, when using eSIM, there is often the opportunity to use services from various cellular carriers. You only need to check that your iPhone is not locked to do this:
1. Open the settings menu once again.
2. Scroll the opened page to the third section and click on “Main”.
3. Find a tab with information about the device and look at the status in the blocked by operator column. There it should say that there are no restrictions on SIM. In this case, using multiple eSIMs from different carriers won’t be a problem.
Pros and Cons of Using Two Numbers at Once
Often those who are searching for ways how to use eSIM along with SIM card at the same time wonder about the advantages and disadvantages of such an approach. The relevance of this question is high among current mobile phone users around the world. Let’s start with cons.
First of all, using a physical SIM card and eSIM at the same time helps to delineate personal life and work. Doing this is necessary to achieve an optimal balance of life values. For example, you can use a dedicated number with an appropriate employer-provided plan for work-related tasks and use another number to communicate with friends and family. This will help you to distinguish between numbers and and keep a balance between work and family.
Secondly, having everything in one place is convenient. You only need any of the latest smartphones to simultaneously use a SIM card and eSIM. There is no more need to have multiple devices that are difficult to carry everywhere. Once you figure out how to use eSIM, you will see that life can be way simpler and more convenient than before. Finally, it’s about the removal of restrictions on roaming in frequent visits to other countries. It is not difficult to take advantage of solutions from a local mobile provider on eSIM. Everything there to do to activate services is to fill out an online application before departure.
As for the disadvantages, there is only one point to emphasize. It refers to the ability to use a SIM card and eSIM at the same time as such. MFF2: M2M Form Factor technology is supported only on new models of mobile phones. Therefore, we recommend checking if certain smartphone has this feature before buying it.
Using eSIM from ESIM-Man
Looking for high-quality and affordable eSIM plans? ESIM-Man is a reliable company that offers solutions in more than 150 different countries around the world. With our service, you no longer have to worry about paying outrageous roaming fees. Take advantage of the new eSIM capabilities and improve personal efficiency and effectiveness today!
