The future of eSIM in smartphones: are we at a turning point?

This edition of the Industry Checkpoint series focuses on consumer eSIM, highlighting momentum behind travel eSIM; new players launching eSIM-only MVNO services; operator efforts to expand eSIM use cases beyond smartphones; and operators using eSIM to target inbound travellers, including enriching connectivity with benefits that improve the wider visitor experience.

With eSIM adoption finally accelerating, this tracker provides data that operators, OEMs, eSIM vendors and other companies involved in the eSIM value chain can use to formulate or adjust eSIM commercial strategies and offers. It covers three the commercialisation of eSIM consumer devices by OEM brand and type of device; countries and MNOs that have launched commercial eSIM service for smartphones; and a consumer adoption forecast for eSIM in the smartphone market to 2030.

GSMA Intelligence's Chart of the Month is a visual way of telling an important story in the mobile and broader tech ecosystem. From the shape and size of markets to trends in consumer behaviour, we aim to provide food for thought through informative visuals designed to bring colour and clarity to complex issues facing the industry. This edition looks at how adoption of travel eSIM continues to grow, but it remains a niche offering.