Recently, eSIM phones have become a hot topic. As we know, the physical phone cards we commonly used in the past are called SIM cards, while eSIM cards are virtual electronic phone cards. Currently, China’s three major telecom operators – China Unicom, China Mobile, and China Telecom – have all received approval from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology for commercial trials of eSIM phones.

What is eSIM?

eSIM phones use electronic data files to replace physical cards, allowing users to access mobile communication network services without inserting a physical card. Without physical card slots, devices like phones can be thinner and have more expandable internal space.

Previously, eSIM technology was already used domestically in areas like IoT and smart wearables. This approval marks the official entry into a new phase of commercial use for mobile phones.

eSIM Not Available for Online Registration – Requires Visiting Service Centers

According to reports, China Unicom, China Mobile, and China Telecom all announced that they have officially received approval to conduct commercial trials of eSIM phone services.

China Unicom stated they have currently adapted to 75 device models (including phones, smart watches, tablets, etc.) and serve millions of users.

China Mobile stated they will provide comprehensive eSIM product support, covering not only phones but also extending to smart watches, tablets, vehicle-mounted devices, and other forms.

China Telecom confirmed that eSIM phone services are officially available for sale in all 31 provincial-level regions across the country.

During the commercial trial period, the three companies will not offer online registration. Users can bring their eSIM phones to service centers to activate the service.

Which Phones Support eSIM?

Currently supported models include eSIM phones from manufacturers like Apple, Huawei, OPPO, and others, which will gradually become available on the market.

China Unicom

China Unicom (China United Network Communications Group Co., Ltd.) is a major state-owned telecommunications operator in China. It was established in 1994 as a competitor to the former monopoly, China Telecom, to help develop the country’s telecommunications market. Today, it is one of the largest mobile service providers in the world, offering a wide range of services including 5G, broadband, and cloud computing.

China Mobile

China Mobile is a major state-owned telecommunications provider in China, founded in 1997. It has grown to become one of the world’s largest mobile phone operators by subscriber base, playing a crucial role in the country’s telecommunications infrastructure development. The company has been instrumental in expanding network coverage across China and pioneering technological advancements like 5G services.

China Telecom

China Telecom is a major state-owned telecommunications company in China, founded in 2002 after a restructuring of the former monopoly provider. It provides fixed-line, mobile, and broadband services and has played a central role in the country’s rapid digital infrastructure development. As a key player, it has been instrumental in expanding internet and communication access across China.

Ministry of Industry and Information Technology

The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) is a cabinet-level executive agency of the People’s Republic of China, established in 2008. It was formed by merging several previous commissions and ministries to oversee China’s industrial policy, technological development, and the information technology sector. The ministry plays a central role in regulating and guiding the country’s strategic push towards advanced manufacturing and a digital economy.

Apple

Apple Inc. is an American multinational technology company founded in 1976 by Steve Jobs, Steve Wozniak, and Ronald Wayne. It revolutionized personal computing, music, and mobile communications with iconic products like the Macintosh, iPod, and iPhone. Today, it is one of the world’s most valuable companies, known for its ecosystem of consumer electronics, software, and services.

Huawei

Huawei is a Chinese multinational technology corporation founded in 1987 by Ren Zhengfei. It has grown from a small sales agent for telephone exchange equipment into one of the world’s largest telecommunications and consumer electronics companies. While not a historical site, it is a significant part of modern global technology culture and business history.

OPPO

OPPO is a Chinese consumer electronics and mobile communications company, not a physical place or cultural site. Founded in 2004, it initially specialized in producing MP3 players and DVD/Blu-ray players before becoming a major global manufacturer of smartphones. The company is known for its focus on camera technology and innovative features in the mobile phone market.