Why phone brands still refrain from using eSIM as the primary SIM

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Ngày cập nhật gần nhất: 15/4/2026

Content

1. Understanding traditional phone SIMs

2. The evolution of eSIM

3. Major Challenges of eSIM

Why phone brands still refrain from using eSIM as the primary SIM

1. Understanding traditional phone SIMs

Currently, there are two main types of phones on the market: GSM and CDMA. In the simplest terms, GSM phones use SIM cards while CDMA phones do not require them.

For SIM cards, this is a small device containing a chip. When users insert this SIM card into a GSM phone, it allows the device to access one of the mobile networks supported by the SIM.

Regular SIM cards are small in size and enable phones to access mobile networks

Each SIM card is distinguished from others based on a series of numbers called a phone number.

2. The evolution of eSIM

With the advancement of science and technology, eSIM has emerged as an essentiality. It is a type of SIM card embedded by phone manufacturers into the motherboard of the device and activated remotely by network providers.

eSIM emerges as an essentiality

Currently, eSIM technology in the Vietnamese market has been applied as a secondary SIM (second SIM) on certain specific phone models such as iPhone X (XS, XS Max), Samsung Galaxy S10, Apple iPhone 11, and Google Pixel 3,...

eSIM is recognized as a technology for the future, so it is not difficult to understand that at the present time, this SIM technology still has some minor drawbacks alongside a host of significant advantages.

eSIM technology still has some minor drawbacks

However, at the current time, we can still observe the gradual development of this technology as the sales of traditional SIM cards show signs of decline and high-end flagship models are gradually being equipped with this eSIM technology by manufacturers.

Most new generation flagship models are equipped with eSIM technology as a secondary SIM

3. Major Challenges of eSIM

Users have raised numerous questions regarding eSIM, such as: 'What is the cost of eSIM?', 'If using eSIM, can I only use one network?', 'What security features does eSIM have compared to traditional SIM cards?', 'If the phone breaks, what happens? Is it easy to transfer eSIM from one phone to another?',...

One of the survey statistics indicates the reason eSIM hasn't truly exploded in development is that only 44% of respondents believe eSIM is as safe as traditional SIM cards, and 40% of users are concerned about being tied to a specific network.

Many users worry about being 'isolated' with a specific network

Another reason major phone manufacturers haven't really prioritized and invested in this technology is the cost. Adding an additional $5 to $10 capital on a smartphone would seriously reduce manufacturers' profits, especially when current SIM cards are still operating very stably, and investment costs are relatively low.

Cost is also one of the issues causing eSIM to be 'constrained'

Therefore, despite being hailed as a technology of the future and poised to surpass traditional SIM cards to become the primary SIM on smartphones, another question arises: how long do we have to wait?

What is vSIM? How to activate vSIM to receive free 4G data for 18 months?

Distinguishing between Regular SIM, Micro SIM, and Nano SIM

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main differences between traditional SIM cards and eSIM technology?

Traditional SIM cards are physical devices that users insert into their GSM phones, while eSIMs are embedded in the phone's motherboard and activated remotely. This evolution allows for more convenience but presents new challenges.

Why are phone manufacturers hesitant to adopt eSIM as the primary SIM option?

Phone manufacturers are cautious about adopting eSIM as the primary SIM due to concerns about costs and user safety. The additional expense of integrating eSIM technology could cut into profits, especially since traditional SIM cards are still functioning well.

How does the cost of eSIM impact its widespread adoption among smartphone users?

The cost of implementing eSIM technology, estimated to add $5 to $10 per device, is a significant barrier to widespread adoption. Manufacturers prioritize cost-effectiveness, especially when traditional SIM cards remain stable and inexpensive.

What are the security concerns users have regarding eSIM compared to traditional SIM cards?

Users are concerned about the security of eSIM technology, with only 44% believing it is as secure as traditional SIM cards. Many fear being tied to a specific network and the potential risks associated with remote activation.

How can users activate vSIM to receive free 4G data for 18 months?

To activate vSIM for free 4G data for 18 months, users must follow specific guidelines provided by their network operator. This typically involves downloading an app and completing the activation process via their device settings.

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