The eSIM as we know it today is only the first generation. eSIM 2.0 and iSIM represent a qualitative leap: multiple simultaneous active profiles, instant activation without QR codes, direct integration into the device's processor. What exactly is eSIM 2.0? When will it arrive on your phone? What changes for travelers? This guide explains it with accessible technical data.
What is eSIM 2.0: The most important technical improvements
eSIM 2.0 is the colloquial name for GSMA SGP.32 (for IoT) and SGP.31 (for consumer devices) specifications. The most relevant improvements over the current eSIM 1.0 (SGP.22/23) are:
- Multiple simultaneous active profiles: eSIM 1.0 allows multiple profiles to be downloaded but only one active at a time. eSIM 2.0 allows up to 8 simultaneous active profiles on the same chip. This means a smartphone could have its personal line, work line, and a travel eSIM all active at the same time, receiving calls and data.
- QR-free activation (push provisioning): With eSIM 1.0, to activate a new plan, you need to scan a QR code or enter an activation code. With eSIM 2.0, activation can be push: the operator automatically sends the profile to the device when the user authorizes it. Faster, simpler.
- Better remote management: eSIM 2.0 improves security protocols for transferring profiles between devices (e.g., switching smartphones while keeping all your active eSIM profiles).
| Feature | eSIM 1.0 (SGP.22) | eSIM 2.0 (SGP.31/32) |
|---|---|---|
| Simultaneous active profiles | 1 | Up to 8 |
| Activation | QR / manual code | Automatic push + QR |
| Remote profile management | Basic | Advanced (device-to-device transfer) |
| Security | AES-128 | AES-256 + cryptographic enhancements |
| IoT compatibility | Limited | Optimized for low-power IoT |
| Device availability | Since 2017, massive since 2022 | 2025-2026 (premium), massive 2027-2028 |
Practical differences between eSIM 1.0 and eSIM 2.0 for the user
For the average user, the most noticeable difference with eSIM 2.0 is the ability to have multiple active lines at the same time. Today, with an iPhone with eSIM + physical SIM, you can have two active lines (your personal number on eSIM or physical SIM, and your active travel eSIM). With eSIM 2.0, you could have your personal number, your work number, and your travel eSIM all active without removing any card.
QR-free activation also greatly simplifies the process. Today, activating a travel eSIM requires: buying the plan → receiving the QR by email → opening settings → scanning the QR → confirming activation. With eSIM 2.0, the process could be: select destination country in the PuraSIM app → confirm → the profile is automatically installed in seconds.
iSIM: when the SIM is integrated directly into the processor
iSIM (integrated SIM) goes a step beyond eSIM: instead of being a separate chip soldered to the motherboard, iSIM is a module integrated directly into the System-on-Chip (SoC) of the device. This has important design advantages: more space for battery or components, greater resistance to bumps and liquids, and lower energy consumption.
The first devices with iSIM arrived on the market in 2022-2023 (Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4 in some markets uses iSIM). In 2026, iSIM is available in some IoT chips and smartwatches, but adoption in smartphones is still limited. By 2028-2030, iSIM is expected to be standard in smartwatches and wearables, with increasing adoption in premium smartphones.
eSIM 2.0 adoption timeline: when it will arrive on your phone
| Milestone | Estimated Date | Status |
|---|---|---|
| GSMA publishes SGP.32 specification (eSIM 2.0 IoT) | 2023 | ✅ Completed |
| First certified eSIM 2.0 chips | 2024 | ✅ In production |
| Consumer devices with eSIM 2.0 (premium iPhone/Samsung) | 2025-2026 | 🔶 Partial support |
| Operators update platforms to support eSIM 2.0 | 2026-2027 | 🔶 In progress |
| QR-free push activation commercially available | 2027 | 🔜 Expected |
| Multi-active profile available in mass-market iPhone/Samsung | 2027-2028 | 🔜 Expected |
| eSIM 2.0 standard in all premium smartphones | 2028-2030 | 📅 Projected |
Impact for the traveler: what changes in practice
Short term (2026-2027) — What's already here or coming: With current eSIM 1.0, you can already have your local line + a travel eSIM simultaneously. QR activation works in minutes. PuraSIM plans are already compatible with all current eSIM smartphones.
Medium term (2027-2028) — The most important practical improvement: With eSIM 2.0 and multi-active profiles, you will be able to have your active personal Spanish line (to receive calls and SMS from the bank, family, etc.) AND your travel eSIM active for data, without needing to keep the physical SIM. Currently, this is already possible with eSIM + physical SIM; with eSIM 2.0 it will be possible with eSIM only.
Long term (2029-2030) — The frictionless experience: You buy the travel eSIM, the profile automatically arrives on your phone, activates without intervention, and deactivates when you get home. No QR codes, no complicated menus, no waiting. Travel connectivity becomes as transparent as at home.
The future of roaming and travel eSIMs
The evolution of eSIM has direct implications for roaming prices. As eSIM adoption grows and competition among travel eSIM providers increases, prices continue to fall. The historical trend: from 50+ EUR/GB in 2015 to 1-2 EUR/GB in 2026. The projection for 2030: less than 0.5 EUR/GB in many destinations.
Traditional operators are also responding: some already offer their own "travel eSIM" as a service, although generally more expensive than specialized providers like PuraSIM. Market competition benefits the traveler.
Frequently asked questions about eSIM 2.0 and iSIM
Is my current iPhone compatible with eSIM 2.0?
eSIM 2.0 compatibility requires both hardware (updated eSIM chip) and software (updated iOS) and operator support. The iPhone 16 has partial support for some eSIM 2.0 features. For full eSIM 2.0 features (complete multi-active profile), you will likely need an iPhone 17 or later and for operators to update their platforms.
Will PuraSIM eSIMs be compatible with eSIM 2.0?
Yes. PuraSIM is updating its platform to be compatible with eSIM 2.0 when devices and operators massively support it. PuraSIM profiles will adapt automatically: if your device supports eSIM 2.0, you will get the benefits (like faster activation); if not, it will continue to work with eSIM 1.0 as it does now.
When will the physical SIM disappear?
The physical SIM will disappear gradually, not abruptly. Apple has already eliminated it in the US (iPhone 14, 2022) and is expected to do so globally by 2026-2028. Samsung and other Android manufacturers will follow between 2027-2030 in premium ranges. In economy ranges and markets with specific regulations (China, some African markets), the physical SIM may persist well into the next decade.
What is the difference between eSIM and iSIM?
An eSIM is a separate chip soldered to the device's motherboard (like ST Microelectronics or Infineon eSIM chips). An iSIM integrates that module directly within the SoC (the main processor chip). For the end user, the experience is identical; the difference is in internal engineering: iSIM allows for more compact and energy-efficient designs.
Will eSIM 2.0 improve coverage or just profile management?
eSIM 2.0 does not change network coverage (which depends on operators and physical infrastructure), but it does improve profile management. The main practical coverage improvement will be indirect: with multi-active profiles, you will be able to have profiles from several operators active at once and automatically switch to the one with the best signal at any given moment, which improves the effective coverage experience.
Conclusion
eSIM 2.0 and iSIM will bring significant changes, but the most important for travelers is already here: the current eSIM 1.0 already offers 75-90% savings compared to roaming and activation in minutes. The future of eSIM promises to make it even simpler. Take advantage of the benefits already available at PuraSIM.
