- eSIMs will grow from 27% in 2023 to 56% by 2028, revolutionizing mobile subscriptions.
- Apple’s eSIM-only devices drive adoption, with North America leading.
- Benefits include cost-effective roaming and reduced environmental impact.
The mobile industry is on the brink of a significant transformation, thanks to the rise of eSIM technology. Recent research highlights how eSIMs are set to empower consumers and revolutionize their interactions with network providers.
According to analyst firm CCS Insight, the shift from physical SIM cards to eSIMs will fundamentally change how customers manage their mobile subscriptions.
Currently, eSIM users represent a small fraction of the global market—150 million out of 8.9 billion cellular subscriptions. However, this number is expected to soar by the end of the decade.
Empowering Consumers with eSIM Technology
eSIMs, or embedded SIMs, offer digital-only network connections, giving customers greater control over their subscriptions. CCS Insight forecasts that the percentage of eSIM-supported phones will more than double, increasing from 27% in 2023 to 56% by 2028.
North America is leading the way in eSIM adoption, with over half of the 150 million users based there. This surge is largely due to Apple’s decision to release eSIM-only devices, starting with the iPhone 14 series in September 2022.
Globally, there are over 200 devices that support eSIMs and around 800 operators that provide eSIM services. The technology is praised for its ability to enhance digital customer experiences, attract new users, and offer environmental benefits by eliminating the need for physical SIM cards.
Kester Mann, CCS Insight’s Director of Consumer and Connectivity, noted a positive shift in the attitude of network operators towards eSIM technology, highlighting new opportunities and greater acceptance.
Roaming Made Easy with eSIMs
One significant advantage of eSIMs is the ability to sign up for cost-effective roaming plans before traveling. This flexibility can save customers money and simplify the process of staying connected abroad.
Despite these benefits, there are challenges to overcome. Awareness of eSIM technology remains low; a survey of over 5,000 people from the UK, the US, Germany, Spain, and Australia found that only 40% had heard of eSIMs.
The Future of eSIMs
As more consumers become educated about eSIMs, their adoption is expected to rise. The transition to eSIM technology is not just a change in hardware; it represents a new way of interacting with mobile networks.
With the potential to streamline services and reduce environmental impact, eSIMs are poised to become a standard feature in the mobile industry.
The rise of eSIM technology marks a significant shift in the mobile industry. As awareness grows and more devices support eSIMs, consumers will enjoy greater control over their mobile subscriptions and benefit from new, cost-effective services.
The eSIM revolution is just beginning, and its impact will be felt across the globe in the coming years.
