Years ago you needed a desktop computer and dial-up access to connect to the Internet. Then came mobile phones. Today, certain tablets, including the iPads of Apple , can connect to mobile services as standalone devices. And this is possible thanks to the iPad's eSIM technology. But how to use an eSIM on the iPad? Let's see it!
eSIM has already spread to cars and other electronic products, so there is no doubt that it is here to stay. The demand for integrated SIM technology is disrupting the mobile telecommunications industry as it is introducing consumers to a whole new world of flexibility and connectivity at home and abroad.
What is it and how to use an eSIM on the iPad?
Tech giants like Apple were the first to invest in this technology, and most new devices are being developed with the revolutionary smart card. Apple first introduced the eSIM in the Apple Watch, then on their phones, and finally on iPads.
Do all iPads have eSIM?
Not all. The first iPad was launched in 2010 and the eSIM was first introduced in 2016, so there are generations of iPads that do have and others that do not have eSIM.
However, the iPad eSIM landscape is more confusing because even some of the newer models do not support eSIM. Apple appears to be selective about which devices are released with an eSIM and which are not.
Let's see which models have eSIM
- iPad Pro 12,9-inch (3, 4, 5, and 6 generation): A2014, A1895, A2609, A2232, A2461, A2379, A2764, and A2437
- iPad Pro 11-inch (1st, 2nd, and 3rd generation): A2013, A1934, A2068, A2230, A2459, and A2301
- iPad mini 5 and 6 generation: A2124, A2126 and A2568
- iPad Air 3, 4 and 5 generation: A2123, A2153, A2324, A2325, A2072, A2589 and A2591
- iPad 7, 8, 9 and 10 generation: A2200, A2198, A2428, A2429 and A2430, A2604, A2603 and A2757
The plans available from eSIM providers in Spain are available at Movistar, Orange, Yoigo, Vodafone, Pepephone, O2 and Jazztel. Customers can choose between global roaming plans or data-only plans for specific countries. It all depends on how much data you want to buy, how long you want it to last, and how much you want to pay.
Normally the plan is purchased online and a QR code is sent to your email so you can activate data services immediately. At Vodafone, for example, the service is called OneNumber, and it currently has a price of 5 euros per month additional to your conventional rate. You can also go to physical stores, such as Movistar, and buy your virtual card on the spot.
Once you've signed up for the service, you'll need to add your new plan. These 3 steps will guide you through the process of adding a new mobile plan to your iPad eSIM:
- first go to Settings, click on Mobile data and now on Configure mobile data.
- If you're setting up a plan on iPad when you already have others, go to Settings, click on Mobile data and Add a new plan.
- Select an operator.
- Select a plan and create an account or add iPad to an existing plan.
- Toca RSVP.
The plan should be activated at that time. Restrictions on mobile data plans may apply in certain countries and regions.
Set up eSIM by scanning QR code
- first go to Settings and click on Mobile data.
- Now play Add mobile plan.
- Use your iPad to scan the QR code provided to you by your mobile operator.
If you are asked to enter a confirmation code to activate the eSIM, enter the number provided to you by your operator. The plan should be activated at that time. Restrictions on mobile data plans may apply in certain countries and regions.
What are the benefits of using an eSIM on the iPad?
With the option of being able to connect to local networks easily without needing a physical SIM card, the benefits of the eSIM are undeniable.
These are the four main benefits of the iPad eSIM:
- If you are traveling abroad and your regular SIM doesn't work, you can use the eSIM to connect to local networks. By doing this, you'll also pay near-local prices and avoid costly roaming charges. A global plan allows you to connect remotely to a wide range of local providers anywhere in the world. You'll never be out of touch or have to rely on Wi-Fi hotspots again.
- You can easily switch between networks if you need to for any reason, or even if you just find a better plan that suits your needs. The process is simple and can be done completely remotely using remote provisioning.
- More telecom providers are opening their networks to eSIM technology, which means more coverage.
- Si If a thief manages to get his hands on your iPad, he won't be able to get rid of the SIM card, so it will be possible to track and recover it.
What is the difference between an iPad with WiFi and cellular?
Hay two types of iPads: WiFi only and WiFi + cellular.
The WiFi-only iPad connects to the Internet using wireless access. Because it's the only option for this particular iPad, you'll only be able to connect to the Internet when you're within range of a WiFi hotspot. None of the WiFi-only iPads support eSIM technology.
The LTE-connected iPad has WiFi and mobile access so you can use it whenever and wherever you want. However, you must activate with a plan to access mobile services. Although the iPad can't make calls, it supports apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime and Skype, and you can send messages.
How to know if your iPad has a mobile connection?
The quickest and easiest way to know if your iPad has a mobile connection is by looking at it on the device itself. For this you must go Settings then click on General and Information. In this section you should look for the "Model Name", since there you will find the exact version of the device and check the exact model of your iPad.
As always, I hope that this article on how to use an eSIM on the iPad has been useful to you, and helps you decide which iPad to buy based on your needs, and learn how to differentiate them.