Ultimate Guide on Dual SIMs with eSIM
Dual-SIM phones were first introduced more than two decades ago. At that time their features were somewhat underdeveloped. The very first dual SIM was introduced in 2000, by Benefon Twin+. Because it had only two SIMs to switch between, the user had to do so manually using a clunky adapter. eSIM technology has made dual-SIM phones much more flexible and convenient.
What is Dual-SIM?
A dual SIM will provide two active SIMs in one device. It helps you keep a work number and a personal number. Dual SIMS are perfect for people who travel a lot and wish to stay in contact without losing their home network. The dual-SIM feature has been in use for a very long time. The real potential of the feature is only explored with an eSIM. Users now have the possibility of a traditional nano-SIM or eSIM.
How Does Dual SIM with eSIM work?
Dual SIM phones are quite easy to use since two SIM cards work on the same device. With new technology, such as eSIM, this setup has become easier than ever. New dual SIM phones come with both kinds of dual SIM technology. They have a physical nano-SIM card also to an eSIM that is embedded into the phone's hardware.
Configuring the dual-SIM feature is pretty easy. Insert the SIM in a real device inside the SIM slot. The eSIM can be bought online where you can scan the given QR code. You can get information on how to configure the eSIM by your mobile carrier. After activating, it allows two SIMs to use two active lines of the phone. Users can use whatever they want for calls, texts, and data. Dual-SIM with eSIM has seamless integration of two networks in one device. If you need two numbers for personal and professional work or need better coverage while traveling eSIMS is the solution.
The Three Modes of Dual-SIM
Not all dual-SIM phones work the same. The way you manage your SIMs will depend on which mode your device supports. Here are three major modes of dual-SIM:
1. Dual-SIM Standby (DSS):
This is the oldest and most limited form of dual-SIM. Under DSS mode, only one SIM is active at any given time, and to call or use data, you must manually switch between them.
2. Dual-SIM Active (DSA):
In this mode, both the SIMs are active at one time. You can take a call on one SIM even while talking on the other. The drawback of this mode is that it consumes much power since both the SIMs are active at one time.
3. Dual-SIM Dual Standby (DSDS):
Most of the dual-SIM phones these days have DSDS technology. In this mode, both SIMs can be on standby unless there is a call, text, or data going through one of them. It means the other SIM is on standby till it's required.
Benefits of Dual-SIM with eSIM
Dual-SIM phones, especially the eSIM version, have a lot to offer. Here are five key benefits:
1. Two Numbers in One Device
With the dual-sim feature, you can have two phone numbers, work, and a personal number, in one single device. You carry both of them around at the same time while keeping your communications in order. You can search for eSIM-compatible mobile phones before buying an eSIM.
2. Range of Network Choices
The dual-SIM phones are not network-locked. Thus making it easy for you to choose a network provider according to your needs. That's pretty handy when traveling since you may use the local eSIM while keeping one at home. Most importantly, dual-SIM with eSIM can allow combining different plans. For example, on one SIM, you would be using a plan with higher rates for data. On the other SIM, you would want to get a plan offering cheap rates for voice and SMS.
3. Lower Roaming Costs
For frequent travelers to any country, you get the opportunity to save roaming rates by availing of the local eSIM. You can place it in the second slot. This will save expensive international roaming rates on calls made or received. The best place to buy an eSIM is eSimmer. Travel eSIMs by eSimmer are packed with the data you need to roam hassle-free.
4. Greater Network Coverage
With dual SIM, you can enjoy wider coverage since you can opt for different SIM providers. In some areas, in case the signal by a single network is weak, you can remain connected due to a stronger signal from the other network.
Do Dual-SIM Phones Use Different Networks?
Yes, of course, with the dual-SIM, you can use two totally different mobile networks at the same time. If your mobile carrier sells you a new phone that is locked to their network, you need to ask them to unlock it for you.
In case your phone is unlocked, you would be able to take advantage of using a different network on each SIM. For instance, you can place your main SIM on a domestic network and a prepaid eSIM in case you travel abroad. There are so many benefits of having multiple eSIMs on Your iPhone.
How to Set Up Dual-SIM on iPhone and Android
The process to enable dual SIM is quite different in iPhones and Android devices. Here is a quick step-by-step guide on both:
Setup Dual-SIM on iPhone (eSIM + nano-SIM)
- Purchase an eSIM data plan or receive the QR code from your carrier
- Open the Camera app and scan the QR code
- When the notification appears stating "Cellular Plan Detected".
- Tap "Continue" at the bottom of the screen
- Choose "Add Cellular Plan" and follow the on-screen instructions
- Activate eSIM using the app by your carrier or directly by your carrier inputting details. You can also activate an eSIM on your iPhone.
Setting Up Dual-SIM on Android (eSIM with nano SIM or two nano SIMs)
Add an eSIM as a Second SIM
- Tap "Settings" and then on "Network & Internet."
- Tap "Mobile Network" and then tap "Add."
- If you're setting up an eSIM, tap on "Download a SIM instead?" and activate it.
Add SIM Card as Second SIM
- For a physical SIM you can insert the second SIM card. Your smartphone should detect it automatically.
- Once enabled in the phone, it also has preferences to enable or not use the SIM for calls, messages, or mobile data.
Dual-SIM technology with eSIM has revolutionized smartphones to a great extent. Now you know How Dual SIM Phones Work for Travellers?
How eSimmer Can Help?
eSimmer is the best solution for travelers who are fed up with these data roaming charges affecting the perfect holiday. You do not need to go through the hassle of Sims swaps and recharges in usual service characteristics. Now we have fast and efficient data roaming with the help of inexpensive travel eSIMs. This would mean places like Europe & UK, the USA, Canada, Japan, Asia, New Zealand, South America, the Middle East, and Africa come in prepaid travel eSIMs, with prices starting at just 1 day of travel. eSimmer enables the 'eSIM' on your phone and allows you to choose your data provider and reduce costs, staying connected uninterrupted while one travels.
