eSIMs, Explained: your ultimate guide to connect smart

Curious about eSIMs? Here's a Q&A so you can travel light and connect smart

8/27/2025
eSIMs, Explained: your ultimate guide to connect smart

So you’ve heard about eSIMs, but you’re not quite sure what the hype is about?

Maybe someone mentioned it on TikTok. Maybe you saw it on your phone settings. Or maybe you’re just tired of swapping SIM cards every time you travel.

Whatever brought you here — welcome.

This post will walk you through everything you need to know about eSIMs, especially if you’re a traveler looking to stay connected without stress (or surprise roaming charges).

Let’s answer your biggest eSIM questions in simple words.

1. What exactly is an eSIM?

An eSIM (short for embedded SIM) is a digital version of your traditional SIM card but instead of being a small plastic chip, it’s built directly into your phone.

  • You don’t have to insert anything.
  • You don’t need a pin tool.
  • You just scan a QR code or download a profile, and you’re good to go.

2. How is an eSIM different from a physical SIM?

Here’s the main difference:

  • A physical SIM is a removable chip.
  • An eSIM is a software-based SIM already built into your device.

The best part? You can store multiple eSIM profiles on your phone and switch between them when traveling all without touching your SIM tray.

3. Can I still use my regular SIM card?

Yes, and this is where it gets exciting:

Most eSIM-compatible phones support dual SIM mode, meaning:

  • Your physical SIM can stay in for local calls or WhatsApp.
  • Your eSIM can handle your travel data abroad.

It’s perfect for students, remote workers, and travellers who want to keep their local number active while using affordable international data.

4. Is my phone eSIM-compatible?

Most recent smartphones support eSIMs. Here are a few examples:

iPhones

  • iPhone XR, XS, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 and newer
  • Samsung
  • Galaxy S20, S21, S22, Z Flip, Z Fold series and newer
  • Google Pixel
  • Pixel 3 and above

You can also check the [compatibility guide] on our website

5. Do I need to remove my SIM card to use an eSIM?

Nope. You can use both at once.

eSIMs are designed to co-exist with your current SIM. Your eSIM gives you local or international data, while your SIM card keeps you reachable.

6. Can I use an eSIM in any country?

With Yatelo — yes.

We offer:

  • Country-specific plans (e.g. France, Kenya, UAE)
  • Regional bundles (e.g. East Africa, Europe, West Africa)
  • Global plans if you’re doing a multi-stop adventure

And you can switch between plans as you travel. Seamlessly.

7. How do I install an eSIM?

Installing your Yatelo eSIM is easy:

  1. Choose your plan on our website or app
  2. Scan the QR code we send you
  3. Activate it in your phone’s settings
  4. Done. You’re connected!

8. Can I delete or replace my eSIM?

Yes. You can delete an eSIM profile from your phone at any time.

And if you’re switching countries or topping up, Yatelo lets you add new plans just as easily, no SIM swapping required.

9. Can I still use WhatsApp?

Absolutely.

Your WhatsApp stays linked to your original number, whether you’re using mobile data from your SIM or your eSIM.

So you can still chat with family, friends, or clients, even while using international data on your eSIM.

10. Is using an eSIM safe?

Yes. eSIMs use the same secure authentication as physical SIM cards.

Your Yatelo profile is encrypted, and your data is protected just like it would be with any mobile network. In fact, it’s arguably safer since there’s no physical chip to lose.

11. What if I need help installing it?

That’s what we’re here for.

Yatelo offers real human support (not bots) via:

  • Twitter
  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • Email

Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, we’ll guide you through setup, step-by-step. With Yatelo, you get to “Travel Light. Connect Smart.”