I am currently using a physical SIM with Graphene. However, I am going to get a new unlocked device and once again flash Graphene. I'd like to use this opportunity to switch from a physical SIM to an eSIM because physical SIMs seem to be getting sunsetted and I'd rather just make the move to be up to date with modern tech.

  1. In a general privacy sense (agnostic of Graphene), are physical SIMs or eSIMs recommended? Are there any downsides to using an eSIM?
  2. What is the workflow? For example, when I get the new phone, can I install Graphene, then activate the eSIM with my carrier? Or do I need to activate the eSIM before flashing Graphene?
  3. It's my understanding that I'll need to enable Google Play Services in order to activate the eSIM. Is that correct? If so, can I temporarily enable GPS, activate the eSIM, then disable/uninstall GPS?

Any and all help is much appreciated!

    I don't think #3 is true any longer. I don't believe you need Google Play Services to activate eSim.
    You would have to install GoS, then activate eSim. With either sim there are downsides. You are exposing yourself to a cellular network, however with GoS, you can shut off 2g,3g, and 5g as well, to reduce your attack surface. Your best option is to be on a WiFi hot spot, on airplane mode.

    tjr6bdza 1. In a general privacy sense (agnostic of Graphene), are physical SIMs or eSIMs recommended? Are there any downsides to using an eSIM?

    Only downside I can think of is the hassle that people seem to have transferring between devices which you don't have with physical SIM. At the end of the day, I don't really see any benefits compared to physical SIMs.

    1. What is the workflow? For example, when I get the new phone, can I install Graphene, then activate the eSIM with my carrier? Or do I need to activate the eSIM before flashing Graphene?
    2. It's my understanding that I'll need to enable Google Play Services in order to activate the eSIM. Is that correct? If so, can I temporarily enable GPS, activate the eSIM, then disable/uninstall GPS?

    https://grapheneos.org/usage#esim-support

    Well, if someone steals your phone and it's locked, a physical sim becomes a risk, they can always take it out, and try to use it on another phone. I know you can lock them, but it's a hassle, and not actually that secure. This is where eSim is better.