eSIM Adoption – 2026 Report

In 2026, eSIM adoption is moving along two different paths. Most modern gadgets support the technology, yet only a minority of users actually utilize it. Despite this development in telecommunications, the introduction of new features and the tourism services market are creating strong momentum. According to forecasts, by 2030, there will be up to 6.7 billion connections to smartphones with embedded SIMs worldwide. It is projected to account for approximately 70% of the total number of connections.

For most users, their first encounter with this technology happens abroad, and services such as Ohayu global subscription play an educational role and provide practical experience without immediately abandoning physical SIM cards.

Current Status of eSIM Adoption Worldwide

There is some difference in the application of technology between countries, the use of devices with embedded SIM cards, and active users. Many people are confused about this issue, so we’ll take a closer look at it below. 

General Overview

According to GSMA, global eSIM connections in 2025 already amounted to about 850 million connections, only on smartphones. By 2030, this number could increase by 7 times

In 2022, there were about 150 million, and by 2024, there were already 600 million active users. This indicates a gradual process.

Strategy statistics also indicate that by 2028, 73% of smartphones are expected to use exclusively virtual SIMs.

Juniper Research estimated 1.4 billion connections by 2026. This is 30% more than in 2025. 

eSIM Devices vs. Active Connections

A growing number of manufacturers are incorporating eSIMs into their smartphones and other devices. Counterpoint estimates that by 2030, device compatibility will reach 72%. 

Actual usage (activation on devices) lags behind compatibility, but is growing rapidly as support from operators increases. 

eSIM Adoption – Regional Stats

USA

This country is a leader in the implementation of tech in gadgets. Statista predicts that by 2029, 98% of devices are going to be compatible with digital SIMs.

EU

Growth in the region is rapid due to increasing digitization and shifting regulatory standards. Based on MRA research, France is expected to be the fastest-growing digital SIM market in the world in the next few years.

Asia

GSMA predicts that the Asia-Pacific region should be the largest in terms of total number of electronic profiles over the next five years, thanks to large markets such as China and India. 

Below is a summary of current and projected adoption rates for embedded SIMs worldwide, including device penetration, activation rates, market support, and key regional factors.

Device Compatibility as the Primary eSIM Adoption Lever

Now that we have clear figures and an understanding of the whole situation, we can move on to the next stage. Let’s analyze the main reason for the widespread introduction of the new subscriber identification system.

From Flagships to Budget Models

Only flagship models with hardware support for digital SIM cards were included in the first batch in 2018. This was considered their unique selling point. The situation changed in 2022-2023, when manufacturers began to massively integrate the eUICC module into their mid-range and even budget platforms. According to GSMA estimates, as of early 2025, more than 65% of all smartphones already had this feature. 

Hardware Strategy

The turning point was Apple’s strategy to make the iPhone 14 line exclusively compatible with virtual SIM cards for the US market. In other markets, this solution remains an option. This engineering compromise frees up valuable internal space in the gadget. It can be used to increase battery capacity or reduce the thickness of the case. 

Regional Dynamics Shaping Adoption

The picture of innovation acceptance varies greatly depending on the geographical location of the regions. In some places, active measures were taken immediately, while in others, there were problems with this.

United States

A significant portion of new phones come with embedded SIM support by default. Some lines do not have physical SIM cards at all, which speeds up users’ initial acquaintance with the technology.

This is the first market where major carriers began operating immediately in 2018. They offer simplified remote activation and switching between tariffs.

China

The mass launch of smartphone support by major operators took place only in October 2025, following a decision by the regulator.

Thanks to giants such as Xiaomi, Honor, and Oppo, eSIM adoption can quickly scale up due to the size of the domestic market.

Emerging Markets 

Budget and mid-range devices dominate in Africa and Southeast Asia. Penetration here will follow the decline in chipset prices.

The SIM + eSIM configuration is a practical transitional step. It is useful for maintaining flexibility and reducing risk for the user.

eSIM Adoption Through Travel

According to the GSMA data, more than 51% of all electronic profile activations are related to international travel. This is quite logical, because abroad, users get fast access to mobile data without roaming, visits to the operator’s office, or replacing the physical card. However, it is important to understand that this is a temporary solution for the duration of the trip, not a complete replacement for a standard SIM card. Because of this, the virtual equivalent doesn’t always become a permanent solution for the home network. 

eSIM Travel Providers 

Services such as Ohayu, Airalo, and Nomad have formed a separate segment. Here, everything is tied to online capabilities and convenience. You need to purchase a package and activate it via a QR code, and then you can manage it. This allows you to stay connected while traveling in different countries without replacing your SIM card. This is a kind of alternative to standard roaming. This option is also useful for spreading your virtual profile. This is thanks to features such as ticket purchases and hotel reservations. In this case, eSIM is not perceived as just a technology that exists in a smartphone.

Objective Limitations That May Delay Mass Usage

Insufficient knowledge. Some people have yet to discover digital SIM. They either associate it exclusively with travel or dismiss this technology, deeming it too complicated. 

Multiple and complex activation methods. The installation process is not standardized. We are used to the standard QR code, but there is also manual code entry, SMS sending, or activation via a branded app. This variety creates confusion.

The operator ecosystem is not ready. It should be noted that one of the current problems is outdated backend systems (legacy systems). They were simply not designed for remote service. Their customer identification (eKYC) processes are either underdeveloped or not recognized by the regulator.

Digital model while maintaining offline procedures. The paradox is that with remote activation, in some cases, you still need to go to the office with your passport for verification. This inconsistency with company procedures remains one of the main obstacles to progress.

Conclusion

eSIM adoption is not as quick a process as it may seem at first glance. Although the number of compatible devices and active users is growing, the transition from physical analogues is still incomplete. But the problem is not with the technology itself, but with the capabilities of operators, who are not yet able to fully prepare their infrastructure. 

For now, segments related to travel and the release of new phones are developing dynamically. Unfortunately, the mass market for subscription services is adapting much more slowly.