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Pixel 10 goes eSIM-only in the US — Are you ready to ditch your SIM card?
Google’s Pixel 10 in the US has removed its physical SIM tray. Discover why this matters, how to set up your Pixel 10 eSIM-only US, and tips for staying connected at home and abroad.
Google Pixel 10 phones sold in the US no longer have physical SIM cards.
That’s right, it’s eSIM-only. For Pixel 10, this only applies to phones sold in the US. Pixel 10 models sold outside of the US will still feature a physical SIM card slot.
If you’ve never set up an eSIM before, the idea may seem a little intimidating. After all, the last thing you want is to be left without data when you’re out and about.
But don’t panic. In this article, we’ll break down why Google made this bold move, what it actually means for you, and how to get your eSIM up and running without a hitch.
If you’re looking for an eSIM that’ll keep you connected wherever you go, Holafly offers both short-term and long-term plans with unlimited data and near-worldwide coverage.
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Why did Google decide to ditch the SIM tray and go eSIM-only?
There are several reasons why the likes of Google and Apple have decided to ditch physical SIMs and release eSIM-only phones.
- Space-saving design
Removing the physical SIM slot frees up internal space, allowing for mmWave 5G support, which results in faster download and upload speeds.
For context, mmWave 5G uses high-band frequencies, which allow for multi-gigabit speeds, ultra-low latency, and greater network capacity. This is particularly beneficial for anyone who frequently streams, games, or works on the go.
- Security and convenience
Unlike physical SIMs, eSIMs are embedded in your phone, so they can’t be lost or stolen, and they’re harder to clone.
The Pixel 10 eSIM-only US also makes switching carriers much smoother, as eSIM technology enables you to activate a new plan instantly with just a QR code.
Then, of course, there’s the travel convenience. You don’t have to waste time at airport SIM card kiosks or fumble with swapping SIMs on the go. Instead, you purchase an international data plan online and connect the moment you land.
- Industry shift
In 2022, Apple transitioned to eSIM-only in the US with the eSIM iPhone 14, sparking a new tech trend. So it was expected for Google to follow suit.
But Google’s decision was not just to copy Apple. Instead, it was due to the emerging trend of a more flexible, digital-first future for mobile connectivity. With both Apple and Google moving towards eSIM-compatible phones, physical SIM cards may be on their way out.
What Pixel 10 users gain (and lose) without SIM cards
Like most emerging tech trends, eSIM-only smartphones come with some exciting perks but also a few growing pains.
Pros of the Google Pixel 10 not having a SIM slot
- Instant activation: No need to wait for a physical SIM to arrive, you can activate an eSIM on Google Pixel within minutes, no matter where you are.
- The ability to store multiple eSIM profiles on one device: This is perfect for juggling work and personal numbers or switching between local and travel plans.
- A more eco-friendly choice: Physical sims may be tiny, but they often come with additional non-recyclable packaging. So switching to eSIMs helps to cut down on plastic waste.
Cons of the Google Pixel 10 not having a SIM slot
- Potential installation issues: Although eSIM technology is advancing every year, not all carriers support eSIM. So you could experience difficulties in setting it up or issues with cellular data on your Pixel phone.
Google Pixel 10 specifications
Switching to eSIM-only isn’t the only change that came with Google Pixel 10 series phones. They’re also more powerful and more capable than previous models. Let’s take a look at what the Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro have to offer.
| Pixel 10 | Pixel 10 Pro | |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.02 x 2.83 x 0.34 in with a 6.3 in screen | 6.02 x 2.83 x 0.33 in with a 6.3 in screen |
| Memory | 128 GB or 256 GB | 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB, or 1 TB |
| RAM | 12 GB | 16 GB |
| Cameras | Triple rear camera: 48 MP wide lens, 10.8 MP telephoto, and 13 MP UltrawideFront camera: 10.5 MP Ultrawide | Triple rear camera: 450 MP wide lens, 48 MP telephoto, and 48 MP UltrawideFront camera: 42 MP Ultrawide |
| Battery | Li-Ion 4970 mAh | Li-Ion 4870 mAh |
| Processor | Google Tensor G5 (3 nm) | Google Tensor G5 (3 nm) |
| CPU | Octa-core (1×3.78 GHz Cortex-X4 & 5×3.05 GHz Cortex-A725 & 2×2.25 GHz Cortex-A520) | Octa-core (1×3.78 GHz Cortex-X4 & 5×3.05 GHz Cortex-A725 & 2×2.25 GHz Cortex-A520) |
| GPU | PowerVR DXT-48-1536 | PowerVR DXT-48-1536 |
Notably, the Pixel 10 Pro has a much more capable camera and more memory options. However, if neither of these is a priority, Pixel 10 has the same exact processor, CPU, and GPU as the Pro version, so you can enjoy similar performance at a lower price.
How much does the Google Pixel 10 cost?
The regular Google Pixel 10 starts at $799 for the 128 GB option and goes up to $899 for the 256 GB option. The Google Pixel 10 Pro starts at $999 for the 128 GB option and goes up to $1,499 for the 1 TB option.
How does Google Pixel 10 compare to Google Pixel 9?
While both Google Pixel 9 and Pixel 10 models feature the same memory and RAM options, series 10 phones have a newer, more capable chipset and a new GPU for better performance. On top of that, Google Pixel 10 series phones have larger batteries, resulting in slightly longer battery life.
| Pixel 10 | Pixel 9 | |
|---|---|---|
| eSIM-only | Yes, for phones sold in the US | No, supports eSIM+physical SIM |
| Dual-eSIM capability | Yes, for phones sold in the US | No |
| Battery | Li-Ion 4970 mAh | Li-Ion 4700 mAh |
| Chipset | Google Tensor G5 (3 nm) | Google Tensor G4 (4 nm) |
Prepare for a world without SIM cards with Holafly
As we can see by Apple’s and now Google’s latest moves, physical SIMs are on the way out, and eSIMs are becoming the technology of the future.
Pixel 10 users may be the early adopters, but most smartphones now support eSIMs, offering more convenience, speed, and flexibility, especially when traveling.
That’s where Holafly makes things simple.
With travel eSIMs in over 270 destinations worldwide, you no longer need to hunt for local SIM cards (often at extortionate rates) the moment you land. Instead, you can connect instantly without the stress of patchy connections, roaming fees, or surprise bills when you get home.
If you need long-term coverage, Holafly has got your back with Holafly Plans — a pay-monthly eSIM subscription with coverage in 170+ destinations worldwide. Using it allows you to stay connected wherever you go, for as long as you need. When you no longer need it, cancel your plans and still enjoy Always On benefits until the next time you need more data.
Peace of mind before you fly
Set up your eSIM before travel and get unlimited data on arrival.
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Hey, I’m Mika! I’m an SEO specialist with 7+ years of experience and a passion for travel info that actually helps you explore smarter. I write travel guides and tips backed by SEO insights so you can spend less time searching and more time adventuring.
