eSIM Market to Be Worth Over $4 Billion in 2023

The value of the global eSIM market will increase from $4.7 billion in 2023 to $16.3 billion by 2027, according to a new study by Juniper Research. Increasing by an impressive 249%, the market will be driven by the adoption of eSIM-enabled consumer devices, as seen in Apple’s recent release of the eSIM-only iPhone 14, triggering accelerated operator support.

The research predicts that Apple will expand the deployment of eSIM-only devices to Europe during 2023, with eSIM technology key to minimizing the time-consuming establishment of roaming agreements within the fragmented European telecommunications market. The total number of smartphones leveraging eSIM connectivity will increase from 986 million in 2023 to 3.5 billion by 2027, with manufacturers developing an equivalent eSIM-only Android device to compete with Apple and maintain their global market positioning.

“Despite operator concerns regarding the disruptive impact of eSIMs on existing business models, growing support from smartphone manufacturers will place additional pressure on operators. In response, service providers must support eSIM connectivity to avoid subscriber attrition as technology awareness increases,“ said research author Scarlett Woodford.

The report found that the total number of eSIM-connected smartphones in China will increase from 103 million in 2023 to 385 million by 2027, assuming country-specific standards are implemented; allowing eSIM use in smartphones. It noted that current regulations prevent Chinese-based device manufacturers from selling to their home market, limiting investment and innovation. In response, the report urges industry bodies to work closely with the Chinese government to develop specifications that allow eSIM support whilst addressing requirements for device monitoring and tracking.