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eSIM Usage: High expectations were held regarding the eSIM—the digital counterpart to the physical SIM card. However, recent statistics indicate that people are not yet ready to embrace the eSIM.

eSIM Usage: Over the past while, the enthusiasm for eSIMs appears to be waning. In many parts of the world, people remain unwilling to switch from their physical SIM cards. Despite the numerous advantages offered by eSIMs, convincing people to make the switch is becoming increasingly difficult. Recent data emerging from South Korea has drawn everyone's attention to this reality. In South Korea, the number of people adopting eSIMs is remarkably low; even in the U.S.—where the situation is slightly better—people are often purchasing these SIMs out of device-related necessity rather than choice. Let's take a look at the story the latest data on eSIMs has to tell.

South Korean Data Shocks Everyone

According to a report, only 5 percent of mobile users in South Korea are currently utilizing eSIMs. The country is home to approximately 57 million phone users, yet only about 3 million of them are using eSIMs. This figure actually represents an increase, driven largely by a network-related scandal that prompted many users to abandon their physical SIM cards and switch to eSIMs. Last year, this figure stood at a mere 3 percent. The report attributes this persistent situation to a lack of public awareness. The government is also concerned about this issue and is now preparing to take measures to address it.

A Different Story in the U.S.—But for a Different Reason

The narrative regarding eSIM usage is quite different in the United States, where approximately 38 percent of mobile users are currently utilizing them. However, the underlying reason for this is distinct. In fact, many smartphone models sold in the U.S. come equipped solely with eSIM support; consequently, customers are left with no option to purchase a physical SIM card and are compelled to use an eSIM instead. Turning to the UK, roughly 40 percent of people surveyed stated that they had never even heard of an eSIM, while another 41 percent admitted they were unsure whether or not their phones supported the technology.

High Hopes for eSIMs

In 2024, a GSMA report projected that by 2028, approximately 50 percent of new connections would be provisioned via eSIMs, and by 2030, this figure would reach 88 percent. However, looking at the latest data, it appears highly unlikely that these projections will materialize by 2028.