What is an eSIM?
An eSIM, short for embedded SIM, is a SIM integrated into the device. Unlike a traditional SIM card, it is not a physical card to insert into your phone, but a digital profile that can be downloaded and installed on a compatible smartphone.
Although the expression eSIM card is often used online, an eSIM is not actually a physical card. It performs the same function as a traditional SIM, allowing the device to connect to a mobile network and use a data plan, but it is managed digitally.
The main difference between a SIM card and an eSIM is therefore the format and activation process: a physical SIM must be inserted into the phone, while an eSIM is installed through a digital procedure.
How does an eSIM work?
Understanding how an eSIM works is simple. After choosing a data plan, the user receives a QR code or follows a guided process through a website or app. The smartphone then downloads the eSIM profile and adds it to the device’s mobile network settings.
Once installed, the eSIM can be used as a primary or secondary data line. In many cases, users can keep their usual SIM active and use the eSIM only for mobile data, for example during an international trip.
This means you can keep using your regular number for calls, text messages or messaging apps, while using a dedicated data plan for your travel destination.
How to activate an eSIM
The process for activating an eSIM may vary depending on the provider and smartphone model, but it usually involves a few simple steps:
- check that your phone supports eSIM technology;
- choose your destination, duration and data package;
- scan the QR code or follow the instructions provided;
- install the eSIM profile on your device;
- select the eSIM as your mobile data line.
It is generally recommended to install the eSIM while you still have a stable Wi-Fi connection, for example before departure or at the airport. The eSIM can then be used according to the conditions of the data plan you purchased.
What is an eSIM used for?
An eSIM is used to access mobile data in a fast, flexible and digital way. It can be useful for travellers, for people who need a second line, or for anyone who wants to avoid buying a local physical SIM card.
A travel eSIM can be especially convenient when visiting another country, because it allows you to choose a data plan for a specific destination or group of destinations. An international eSIM or global eSIM can also be useful for longer trips, business travel or itineraries with multiple stops.
For travellers arriving in Rome from outside Europe, an eSIM can also be a practical way to stay connected in Italy without looking for a local phone shop immediately after landing.
Which smartphones support eSIM?
Not all smartphones support eSIM technology. Compatibility depends on the model, the country where the phone was purchased and, in some cases, operator settings.
Many recent smartphones are compatible with eSIM, including several iPhone models and latest-generation Android devices. Before purchasing a plan, it is always important to check your phone settings or the information provided by the manufacturer.
For example, if you are checking eSIM iPhone compatibility, make sure your model supports digital cellular plans and that the device is not locked to a specific operator. The same applies to eSIM Android compatibility, which should always be verified before purchase.
Benefits of using an eSIM when travelling
The main benefits of an eSIM are convenience, speed and flexibility. You do not need to collect or insert a physical card, you do not have to replace your main SIM, and activation can usually be completed in just a few minutes.
For travellers, this means being able to access mobile data on arrival, check maps and bookings, use transport apps and stay in touch without having to search for a local SIM card.
An eSIM is also useful for long-haul or multi-country trips, because it allows you to choose a data package based on destination, length of stay and browsing needs.
ADR eSIM: buy your travel data connection
With the ADR eSIM, you can purchase a digital solution designed to help you stay connected while travelling, without needing a physical SIM card. The service offers flexible data packages by duration and volume, with coverage available in over 200 destinations worldwide and digital activation in just a few minutes through a guided process and QR code.
You can buy your eSIM online from the dedicated landing page or use the airport touchpoints, including the ADR digital totems. From there, you can choose your destination, compare the available packages, enter the required details and complete the activation from your compatible smartphone.
If you buy or activate the eSIM at the airport, you can follow the dedicated totem flow: check your phone compatibility, choose the available data package or promotional offer, scan the QR code and continue on your device to complete installation and payment, where required. In some cases, travel information such as departure date or boarding pass may be requested to access the offer correctly.
The ADR eSIM is useful whether you are departing from Rome to travel abroad or arriving at Fiumicino and need a data connection ready to use in Italy. You can browse, check maps and bookings, use messaging apps and access digital travel services without looking for a local phone shop or buying a physical SIM card.
Buy your ADR eSIM
Choose your destination and data package, check your smartphone compatibility and activate your connection in just a few steps.
Before proceeding, always check the conditions of the selected offer: covered countries, data allowance, plan duration, device compatibility and usage rules.
FAQ
What is the difference between a SIM card and an eSIM?
A traditional SIM is a physical card that must be inserted into the smartphone. An eSIM is a digital profile integrated into the device and installed without changing cards.
How do I switch from a physical SIM to an eSIM?
To convert your main SIM into an eSIM, you need to contact your mobile operator. For a travel eSIM, however, you usually add a new digital profile to your compatible phone without replacing your main SIM.
How can I check if my phone supports eSIM?
You can check your smartphone settings, usually in the mobile network, SIM or cellular plan section. You can also consult the information provided by the phone manufacturer or eSIM provider.
Which smartphones are compatible with eSIM?
Many recent smartphones support eSIM, including several iPhone and Android models. Compatibility may vary depending on model, country and operator settings.
Where can I use an eSIM?
You can use an eSIM in the countries included in the data plan you purchase and in areas covered by the available mobile network. You cannot use it on non-compatible devices, operator-locked phones or in destinations not included in the selected offer.
