What is an eSIM?
The eSIM is a revolutionary innovation that significantly simplifies the activation of phone plans, eliminating the need for physical manipulations.
Unlike traditional SIM cards, the eSIM, also known as an electronic SIM card, allows for easy activation of the plan directly from your device. This modern advancement facilitates the transition between phones and providers, ensuring a seamless phone experience.
The advantages and disadvantages of an eSIM card
The eSIM technology, or embedded SIM card, is redefining the mobile experience by eliminating the need for a physical SIM card. This allows users to manage multiple numbers and plans without having to insert or change SIM cards. However, like any emerging technology, eSIM comes with its advantages and disadvantages that should be considered before adopting it.
| Avantages | Inconvénients |
|---|---|
| Praticité : Pas besoin de carte physique, tout est géré directement via les paramètres de votre appareil. | Compatibilité limitée : Tous les appareils ou opérateurs ne supportent pas encore l’eSIM. |
| Gestion simplifiée : Vous pouvez ajouter plusieurs profils eSIM et changer de fournisseur facilement, idéal pour les voyageurs fréquents. | Activation complexe : Le processus d’activation peut être plus long et nécessite parfois des étapes supplémentaires comparé à une carte SIM traditionnelle. |
| Espace libéré : Libère de l’espace dans votre appareil, ce qui peut contribuer à des designs plus fins ou à des fonctionnalités supplémentaires. | Dépendance à la technologie : Si votre téléphone a un problème logiciel, vous risquez de perdre l’accès à votre numéro et vos forfaits. |
| Sécurité améliorée : La sécurité est renforcée car l’eSIM est directement intégrée au matériel de l’appareil, rendant le vol de carte SIM plus difficile. | Disponibilité des forfaits : Tous les forfaits mobiles ne sont pas disponibles en eSIM, particulièrement dans les régions où la technologie n’est pas encore largement déployée. |
How to get an eSIM?
To get an eSIM in Canada, you have several simple and quick options: contact providers directly such as Bell, Rogers, Fido, Fizz, or Telus, who offer eSIM plans.
You can also use our platform to compare different mobile plans. This is the best way for you to make an informed choice.
Activation is generally very simple: you just need to scan a QR code provided by the carrier in your smartphone’s settings (Settings > Cellular Network > Add an eSIM), ensuring that your device is compatible with this technology beforehand.
Find the plan that suits your needs and budget!
Bell
If you have a phone compatible with eSIM cards on the Bell network, you can activate it. You can activate the eSIM card by logging in online and selecting the dedicated option.
If you simply want to transfer your Bell Mobility service from a physical SIM card to an eSIM, visit a Bell store or access your MonBell account. In the latter case, choose the “Manage my SIM card and device” option on your account overview page.
You also have the option to visit a store to activate this feature. Whether activated online or in-store, the activation process takes only a few minutes.
If you are not a Bell customer, you will need to subscribe to one of their plans to benefit from this option.
Rogers
If you are a Rogers subscriber, you can switch to an eSIM through MyRogers app or MyRogers portal. This process takes only a few minutes with detailed instructions.
If you subscribe to a new plan, an eSIM activation voucher will be sent by mail to facilitate the activation process at home. For in-store pickup, the activation process will be handled there. For phone purchases, activation can be done using MyRogers app or MyRogers portal.
Public Mobile
When subscribing to a plan with Public Mobile, you have the option to choose between a physical SIM card or an eSIM.
The activation of the eSIM is quick, taking only a few minutes, whether done online or in-store. The eSIM offers instant activation.
If you want to switch from a physical SIM card to an eSIM, there’s one solution available. Through the Public Mobile app, you’ll find the necessary tutorial to activate the eSIM and make the payment. The eSIM will then install automatically, allowing you to remove the physical SIM card that is no longer needed.
Whether you are a new or existing customer, you can purchase an eSIM during the activation process or through the Public Mobile website.
Note that the price of an eSIM with Public Mobile is $5 + taxes.
Telus
Activating your eSIM card with TELUS is simple through the purchase of an eSim Voucher QR priced at $15 + taxes.
After completing the purchase and obtaining the eSim voucher, proceed by following the detailed steps to activate your phone. It’s essential to note that the activation process may differ based on the phone model you’re using. For accurate and personalized instructions, consult the TELUS website or their mobile app. There, you’ll discover instructions customized to your device, simplifying the eSIM activation process on your phone.
Virgin Plus
Virgin Plus offers its customers a convenient eSIM option through its various plans. The provider offers a solution that makes it easy to activate the eSIM via its website or mobile app.
It is important to note that the eSIM installation process depends on your phone’s operating system and the compatibility of your phone with the service. Nevertheless, Virgin Plus simplifies this installation by providing several detailed tutorials. These step-by-step guides streamline the eSIM activation process, allowing you to enjoy its benefits in just a few minutes.
Koodo
Koodo offers the eSIM option through its various plans and allows you to transition from a physical SIM to an eSIM. Indeed, you can easily activate this transition by obtaining an eSIM voucher included in Koodo’s plans. To make the transition to eSIM, simply purchase an eSIM voucher at a Koodo store and proceed with the transition through their Self Serve.
It’s a convenient solution to activate a cellular plan without requiring a physical SIM card. It provides the ability to use up to two phone numbers on various compatible phones.
The differences between eSIMs and travel eSIMs
A regular eSIM is your primary SIM card, linked to your usual carrier and used throughout the year with your standard personal plan. In contrast, a travel eSIM is a temporary pass specifically designed for your international travels, offering advantageous and flexible rates tailored to the needs of travelers.
The main difference lies in their usage: the regular eSIM handles your daily communication, while the travel eSIM allows you to stay connected abroad at a lower cost, with data and call plans designed for short-term stays. It’s like having a “digital travel pass” that activates only when you’re traveling internationally.
Phones compatible with eSIM
As of February 2025, several brands offer eSIM-compatible smartphones, primarily in their high-end and mid-range models.
Apple
All iPhones since the iPhone XR (2018) are eSIM compatible, including:
- iPhone 16 (Pro, Pro Max, Plus)
- iPhone 15 (Pro, Pro Max, Plus)
- iPhone 14 (Pro, Pro Max, Plus)
- iPhone 13 (Pro, Pro Max, mini)
- iPhone SE (2020 and 2022)
Samsung
- Galaxy S Series: S21, S22, S23, S24, S25
- Galaxy Z Series: Z Fold 4, Z Fold 5, Z Flip 4, Z Flip 5
- Galaxy A54, A55
Google Pixel
All recent models are compatible:
- Pixel 9 (Pro, Pro XL, Pro Fold)
- Pixel 8 and 8 Pro
- Pixel 7 and 7 Pro
- Older models: Pixel 6, 5, 4
Other Brands
- Honor: Magic 4, 5, and 6 Pro
- Xiaomi: 13T Pro, 14, 14 Ultra
- Vivo: X90 Pro, X100 Pro
- OnePlus: OnePlus 11, OnePlus 12
- Sony: Xperia 10 III, 10 IV, 1 IV
eSIM compatibility is gradually expanding to more models and brands.
