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eSIM, Physical SIM - What Are They?
The iPhone 12 Pro 2 SIM offers users two choices: the iPhone 12 Pro 2 with a physical SIM and the iPhone 12 Pro 2 with one physical SIM and one eSIM. But what exactly are physical SIMs and eSIMs?
Physical SIM
A physical SIM is a type of smart card capable of storing basic information such as network ID, phone number, PIN, and more. Simply put, it's what most Vietnamese people commonly refer to as a phone SIM card.
Physical SIM cards pave the way for future innovations, characterized by their durability, small size, and long lifespan. The majority of Vietnamese individuals currently utilize physical SIM cards.
Activating a physical SIM card is as simple as sending a predefined message using the network provider's specified format. Within a few minutes of sending the message, you can activate the SIM card and start using it.
eSIM
eSIM is not a new concept internationally, but it gained significant attention in the Vietnamese market with the release of the iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR.
eSIM stands for electronic SIM, representing an innovative advancement over physical SIM cards. Unlike physical SIM cards, which can be easily removed from the SIM tray, eSIM is integrated into the iPhone 12 Pro Max, preventing dust and bacteria from infiltrating the hardware.
To activate an eSIM, you need to visit the service provider directly for registration and activation, rather than just sitting at home and sending a text message.
Pros and Cons of eSIM and Physical SIM
Physical SIM
Advantages of having a 2-SIM physical phone include:
- Users can easily remove and insert the SIM card when switching phones.
- Activation process is easy and quick.
A drawback is that SIM trays can create gaps where dust can accumulate. However, this isn't a significant weakness for the iPhone 12 Pro 2 physical SIM.
eSIM: Revolutionizing Connectivity
eSIM brings numerous conveniences to people's lives:
- eSIM supports network roaming in various countries and territories when traveling abroad.
- Convenient and doesn't require removal, hence better device cleanliness.
- eSIM facilitates SIM upgrades in many cases without the need for physical SIM replacement.
However, eSIM also has its own limitations:
- Activation process is more complex than physical SIM.
- eSIM's signal reception capability is inferior to physical SIM.
- Due to its fixed nature, removing eSIM requires intervention from authorized parties rather than being a user-performed task.
Should you choose the iPhone 12 Pro 2 with physical SIM or 1 physical SIM and 1 eSIM?
In reality, each type of SIM comes with its own advantages and disadvantages, but at present, eSIM has gained more recognition, yet it doesn't necessarily mean it's become prevalent. Most users still tend to opt for the physical SIM version of the iPhone 12 Pro 2 instead of choosing eSIM. However, there are some customers who want to experience something new, so they have opted for the iPhone 12 Pro 2 version with 1 physical SIM and 1 eSIM.
Overall, the final decision still rests with you, but nonetheless, Apple introducing dual-SIM devices like the iPhone 12 Pro 2 SIM is a positive indication that enhances user experience.
