The eSIM revolution is stalling, as people refuse to quit their physical SIM
Efforts to promote eSIM adoption are facing resistance globally, with many users reluctant to switch from physical SIM cards despite technological advancements. In South Korea, eSIM usage remains low at just 5% of the market, highlighting a lack of awareness and voluntary uptake. While North America leads in adoption, much of it is driven by eSIM-only devices rather than consumer preference.
- ▪In South Korea, only 5% of mobile users have adopted eSIMs, with 2.9 million out of 57 million phone users utilizing them.
- ▪A network hacking incident in South Korea caused a temporary rise in eSIM adoption from 3% to 5%, but this was not considered voluntary uptake.
- ▪The South Korean government plans to implement policies to boost eSIM adoption, including reducing costs and improving public awareness.
- ▪In the US, eSIM adoption is higher but largely driven by eSIM-only smartphones like the iPhone 14 and later models, Google Pixel 10 series, and some Motorola devices.
- ▪A UK survey found that 40% of respondents had never heard of eSIMs, and 41% did not know if their phones supported the technology.
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