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# What is an eSim and how does it work?


# What is an eSIM and how is it different from a regular SIM?

Need mobile data on a phone, tablet, or laptop but don’t want to fiddle with a tiny plastic card?  
That’s where **eSIM** comes in.
---

## 1. eSIM in one sentence
An **eSIM** (“embedded SIM”) is a small chip that’s built into your device and can be programmed — over the air — with a new mobile plan at any time.

> *Think of it as a downloadable SIM card.*
---

## 2. eSIM vs. classic (plastic) SIM

|   | **Regular SIM** | **eSIM** |
| ---- |
| **Where it is located** | Removable plastic card you insert into a slot | Soldered inside the device |
| **How you activate** | Pop the card in → phone connects | Scan a QR code or tap “Add eSIM” → profile downloads |
| **Switching plans** | Physically swap cards | Add / delete profiles in the settings menu |
| **Multi-SIM** | Dual-SIM only if device has two slots | Store several profiles at once; switch instantly |
---

## 3. Key benefits of eSIM

- **Instant setup**  
  Buy a plan online, scan a code, and you’re connected in minutes — no shops, no shipping.

- **Space & durability**  
  No SIM tray means fewer moving parts, better water resistance, and more room for battery.

- **Multiple numbers, one device**  
  Keep your home line active while adding a local data plan for travel.

- **Eco-friendly**  
  No plastic card, no packaging, no international shipping.

- **Great for short trips**  
  Perfect match for **MTX Connect**’s travel data packages — download before you fly.
---

## 4. Any downsides?

- **Device compatibility**  
  Only newer phones, tablets, and laptops support eSIM. (iPhone XS / XR or later, most flagship Android phones, recent iPads, Surface Pro X, etc.)
    [Devices that support eSIM](https://faq.mtxc.eu/en-us/article/devices-that-support-esim-1ghns1n/)

- **Operator support**  
  While 260+ carriers now offer eSIM, some local operators still provide plastic SIMs only.

- **Profile limit**  
  Most phones can store 5–8 eSIM profiles, with up to two active at the same time.
---

## 5. How do I install an MTX Connect eSIM?

1. **Check your device** supports eSIM.
2. **Purchase** the MTX Connect plan you want.
3. You’ll receive a **QR code / activation code** (it contains the SM-DP+ address).
4. On your device, open **Settings › Mobile / Cellular › Add eSIM** and follow the instructions on screen.
5. Assign the new profile for data, calls, or both — you can rename it (e.g. “MTX Travel EU”).
6. Add / switch / delete profiles anytime in the same menu.

A more detailed instructions on the installation process can be found here:
[How to install and configure the MTX eSIM on iPhone](https://faq.mtxc.eu/en-us/article/how-to-install-and-configure-the-mtx-esim-on-iphone-1sexrkz/)
[How to install and configure the MTX eSIM on Android](https://faq.mtxc.eu/en-us/article/how-to-install-and-configure-the-mtx-esim-on-android-bbz2di/)
---

### Quick FAQ

- **Can I keep my physical SIM and add an eSIM?**  
  Yes — most modern phones let you use one physical SIM and one eSIM simultaneously *.*

**- Can I convert my MTX physical SIM to an eSIM? **
  No. You can convert a physical SIM card to an eSIM

- **Is eSIM more secure?**  
  Yes. The chip is soldered in, and all profile downloads are encrypted and verified.

**- What if I deleted the eSIM from my phone settings? **
  You can reinstall the eSIM back __to the same device__, by simply re-scanning the QR code of your eSIM.

**- Can I move my eSIM profile to another phone?  **  
  In short, yes, you can. But some conditions apply, please consult this article: [Can I transfer my eSIM to a new device?](https://faq.mtxc.eu/en-us/article/can-i-transfer-my-esim-to-a-new-device-2ie1ai/)