Travel eSIM Adoption Expected to Quadruple by 2030 Amid Declining Roaming Revenues for Mobile Operators
The global eSIM market is poised for significant growth, with 1.3 billion people currently owning smartphones that support this technology. Analysts predict that this number will soar to over 3 billion by 2030, driven largely by the rising popularity of travel eSIMs. A recent report from CCS Insight indicates that the number of travel eSIMs provisioned worldwide is expected to jump from 70 million in 2024 to 280 million by the end of the decade, reflecting a shift in how travelers connect while abroad.
Growth of the eSIM Market
The eSIM market is experiencing a remarkable expansion, fueled by increasing international travel and a growing familiarity with eSIM technology. Current estimates suggest that the market value could exceed $4.4 billion as more consumers adopt eSIM-compatible devices. The rise in travel eSIM provisioning is a key driver of this growth, with CCS Insight forecasting a significant increase in the number of users over the next several years. This trend indicates a shift in consumer behavior, as travelers seek more cost-effective and flexible options for mobile connectivity while abroad.
Challenges for Traditional Operators
Specialist providers like Airalo and Holafly are making significant inroads into the market by offering lower-cost alternatives to traditional roaming plans. Airalo, for instance, reported reaching 20 million customers in April 2025, effectively doubling its user base in less than a year. This surge in popularity poses a challenge to established mobile operators, who have historically relied on roaming fees for revenue. While some companies, including Vodafone and Orange, have begun to offer their own eSIM options, many operators are still grappling with how to adapt to this rapidly changing landscape.
Regional Adoption Trends
North America currently leads the adoption of travel eSIMs, with nearly 20% of international trips utilizing this technology. Analysts predict that this figure will rise to 41% by 2030, driven by the widespread availability of eSIM-capable devices, including the eSIM-only iPhones launched since 2022. As eSIM usage expands, the best options for travelers in Europe and Asia—two of the largest markets—will likely influence global purchasing decisions. However, as the market matures, the initial advantages held by travel eSIM specialists may begin to diminish, leading to increased competition and potential commoditization.
Future Outlook and Industry Implications
The decline in roaming fees presents both a challenge and an opportunity for global mobile operators. While reduced revenues from traditional roaming services are a concern, this shift also encourages operators to rethink their business models and explore new service offerings. Kester Mann, director of consumer and connectivity at CCS Insight, notes that travel eSIMs are fundamentally altering the traditional roaming market. The influx of new competitors, coupled with falling prices and the move toward remote provisioning, is changing how consumers approach mobile connectivity during their travels. As the market evolves, consolidation and diversification within the sector are anticipated, as companies seek to adapt to the new realities of mobile connectivity.
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