That sounds pretty useful. Is this “tool” just software that could also be rolled out to other pixels or is there something physically different on the hardware level?
as far as I can see, pixel 7 pro at least has it as well! moved from 7 pro to 8 pro recently
It’s a really important feature, but I’m not sure I’d call it ‘beloved’.
Can you use the conversion tool on networks that don’t offer eSIMs directly? There are still many networks, especially smaller or cheaper ones, that only offer physical SIMs.
From the TL;DR portion at the top of the article (handy things, you should try reading them on occasion):
- eSIM transfers are finally here, letting you easily migrate your eSIM from an old Android phone to the new Pixel 8 series.
- You will also be able to convert a physical SIM to an eSIM, which will be required for dual-SIM functionality.
- However, these features will not work on all phones across all carriers, so discretion is advised.
I did read it and, just like your reply, it doesn’t answer my question.
What I’m asking about is a special case that is not directly addressed in the article. If the carrier supports eSIMs, i.e. you can buy one from them directly instead of a physical SIM, then maybe this transfer tool will work, with the disclaimer that it may not work in some cases. But if the carrier only offers physical SIMs, there is no information whether this new Pixel feature will let you create a usable eSIM.
Yes, it does answer that under point 2: “You will also be able to convert a physical SIM to an eSIM,” with the caveat disclaimer of point 3: “these features will not work on all phones across all carriers.”
It really doesn’t matter if the carrier supports eSIMs or not. If it’s the Pixel can convert the physical to an electronic, and still transmit all the relevant identifiers. So the carrier might see the eSIM as a physical. You’re kinda asking “what if I buy it on Tuesday? The article doesn’t mention Tuesday purchases.” It’s irrelevant. Again, might not work everywhere.
