eSIM Card Market: Key Figures & Forecast 2025-2032
1. Introduction & Key figures
The eSIM (Embedded SIM) is redefining the way we access the mobile network, whether on smartphones, tablets or connected objects (IoT). Unlike the conventional SIM, which is usually inserted in a physical slot, the eSIM card is directly integrated into the device and can be activated in a matter of seconds via a simple QR code or an application.
According to Allied Market Research, the global eSIM market was valued at $3.4 billion in 2022 and is expected to reach $12.7 billion by 2032, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.3% over this period. (Source: Allied Market Research) In 2023, the number of eSIM-enabled devices reached 231 million, an increase of 45% on the previous year, with around 60% of these devices being smartphones. (Source: Statista)
According to Mobilise, the number of compatible smartphones has risen from 3 in 2017 to 169 in 2024.
Source : Mobilise
2. History: From the classic SIM to the eSIM card
Since the 1990s, the SIM card has undergone several format evolutions (credit card, micro, nano) without changing its primary function of authentication with operators. With the eSIM, we’re witnessing a real breakthrough. Standardized by the GSMA (Global System for Mobile Communications), this chip soldered directly into the device no longer requires a plastic card to be inserted. The first applications saw the light of day on connected watches (for example, the Apple Watch), before extending to high-end smartphones like the iPhone XS (Apple, 2018).
Today, eSIM cards are no longer confined to telephones. Connected vehicles, drones, industrial sensors and other IoT objects are already using this technology to deploy or adjust their plans remotely. This dematerialization brings both greater flexibility and a reduced ecological footprint, by limiting the production of plastic cards.
3. Current state of the eSIM card market
The market for eSIM cards is evolving rapidly, driven by several converging factors. Manufacturers such as Apple, Samsung, Google and Huawei are increasingly integrating eSIM cards into their flagship models, while incumbent operators (Orange, Vodafone, AT&T) are adapting their offers to allow 100% dematerialized activation.
In the IoT sector, the ability to manage a fleet of connected objects (sensors, machines, robots) via a single eSIM card is winning over businesses. They can switch from one operator to another according to geographical zone or network quality, without changing a single physical chip. Wearables (watches, sports bracelets, GPS trackers) take advantage of the absence of a SIM slot to optimize their design and autonomy. According to Statista, the global eSIM market generated $4.7 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach $16.3 billion by 2027 (Source: Statista).
Mobilise breaks down eSIM market share by region for the year 2024 in the chart below.
Source : Mobilise
4. Growth factors and outlook
Ease of use
There are several reasons why the eSIM card has taken off. From a practical point of view, travelers can now choose a package for their destination before they even arrive. They can buy and activate it directly from their phone. On the IoT side, the simplicity of deployment and the ability to change operators remotely are major advantages for manufacturers.
IoT growth
The rise of the IoT is a major driver for the adoption of eSIM cards. Projections indicate that the number of IoT connections via eSIM will increase by 43% per year, reflecting growing demand in various sectors such as automotive, healthcare and smart cities (Source: Light Reading).
Increased passenger demand
Travelers’ spending on eSIM services is expected to reach $3.3 billion by 2025, an increase of almost 165% on 2023. This trend underlines the growing appeal of eSIMs for avoiding high roaming charges and facilitating connectivity abroad (Source: kaleidointelligence).
According to Mobilise, 9 out of 10 travellers would use an eSIM card for travel if they could.
Source : eSIM for Travel Survey
Lower production costs
Switching to eSIMs reduces the use of plastic and the costs associated with the production and distribution of physical SIM cards. On average, a plastic SIM card costs around $2.5, while an eSIM costs just $0.5, generating significant savings for mobile operators.
Source : Mobilise
The automotive industry is rapidly adopting eSIMs to enhance vehicle connectivity. eSIMs facilitate remote management of telematics services, software updates and subscriptions, offering automakers increased flexibility and a better user experience (Source: Globenewswire).
In the graph below, ABI Research forecasts strong growth in exports of smartphones compatible with eSIM cards over the next few years.
Source : ABI Research
5. Mybestsim: the best way to start using eSIM cards
At MyBestSim, we’re convinced that eSIM cards are the most practical way to get internet abroad at the best price. That’s why we’ve decided to make as many people as possible aware of eSIM cards, and to create an eSIM card comparator, enabling you to quickly find an offer to suit every traveler’s needs. We work with the best eSIM card providers to negotiate advantageous rates in order to provide an independent, high-quality comparison. We also publish articles and practical guides to explain the specifics of eSIM and the latest practical travel information for travelers.
The eSIM card is emerging as one of the major revolutions in telephony and IoT, both for its ease of activation, its flexibility and its contribution to reducing plastic waste. Key figures and forecasts reveal a global craze, underpinned by the transition to 5G and heightened ecological awareness.
Allied Market Research forecasts very strong market growth for 2032
Source : Allied Market Research
To find out more about eSIM cards and how to use them, you can read our other articles on our Blog page. Take a look now at our eSIM card comparison for your next travel destination and find the best eSIM card for your needs!
Passionate about travel and tech, I have combined these two worlds to help travelers understand the numerous options to get Internet access abroad and identify the best option for them. As a software development engineer, I put my skills at the service of simple, practical and transparent content. My goal is to give you all the keys to stay connected easily and at the best price during your trips. 🌍📲