eSIM vs physical SIM — what's the difference?

One is plastic you slot in and out. The other is a chip soldered into the phone. The eSIM is smaller, activates in minutes, and lets you swap plans without a shop visit or waiting on the post.

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More eSIM Basics questions

How do I delete an eSIM from my phone? Can I keep my normal SIM active alongside the eSIM? Does my phone have to be unlocked for an eSIM? Will an eSIM work anywhere in the world? Can I use an eSIM on an iPad? How do I install an eSIM? How do eSIMs actually work? How many eSIMs can one phone hold? Does my iPhone support eSIM? What's an eSIM? Which phones work with eSIM?

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How much is an eSIM? Do these eSIMs include calls and texts? Are there hidden fees or roaming charges? How do I get in touch with support? How will I get my eSIM after I pay? How do I activate my eSIM?

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eSIM vs physical SIM — what's the difference?

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