A mobile network plan can be activated using the "electronic SIM," or "E-SIM,"

technology, which eliminates the need for a physical SIM card. E-SIM technology was
introduced to Bangladesh in 2020 by Grameenphone, one of the top mobile service
providers there. Nonetheless, there have been several discussions and conflicts
surrounding the implementation of E-SIM technology by Grameenphone, which are
covered below:

Compatibility Issues: Compatibility with E-SIM technology is one of the primary topics
of debate. For users who want to switch to an E-SIM plan, the fact that not all mobile
devices accept E-SIM technology has created some inconvenience. Those who do not
own suitable smartphones have complained about Grameenphone's decision to restrict
the E-SIM service to a few certain smartphone models.

Security Concerns: Security is another issue that has been raised in relation to E-SIM
technology. There are worries that the user data stored by E-SIM technology could be
hacked or compromised because it is stored on a digital platform. Although
Grameenphone has taken steps to safeguard the security of user information, some
users continue to have reservations about the security of their data.

Technical Issues: The activation of E-SIM plans in Bangladesh has run into some
technical difficulties. Frustration and inconvenience have resulted from several
consumers' reports of issues activating their E-SIM plans. Grameenphone has
acknowledged these problems and is attempting to fix them.

Cost: Another contentious topic is the price of E-SIM technology. Users have
complained that they are being overcharged for the convenience of E-SIM technology
as a result of the fact that E-SIM plans are typically more expensive than traditional SIM
plans.

Lack of Awareness: Last but not least, users in Bangladesh do not seem to be familiar
with E-SIM technology. Many users lack technical knowledge and lack an
understanding of how it operates. The decision to move to an E-SIM plan or continue
with a physical SIM plan has been complicated by this, and people are unsure of which
option to choose.

Competition: The question of whether eSIM technology would increase competition

and result in lower customer prices is one of the major issues surrounding it. According
to proponents, eSIM will make it simpler for customers to switch providers, increasing
competition and resulting in lower rates. But, detractors contend that eSIM would
actually reduce competition since carriers will be able to force customers into lengthy
contracts by programming their eSIMs with unique network configurations.

Market: With eSIM, there is also debate regarding how it might affect the market for
conventional SIM cards. According to some analysts, physical SIM cards could
eventually be completely replaced by eSIM, which might have substantial ramifications
for SIM card producers and distributors.

Regulations: Regarding eSIM issues, Grameenphone, the biggest mobile network

provider in Bangladesh, came under fire in 2019 when it was alleged that it had forcibly
activated eSIMs on consumers' handsets without their permission. Grameenphone was
instructed to suspend offering eSIM services by the Bangladesh Telecommunication
Regulatory Commission (BTRC) until it could confirm that all eSIMs had been activated
with customers' permission. This incident served as a reminder of how crucial it is to
make sure that eSIM technology is implemented responsibly and in accordance with
applicable laws.

In conclusion, there have been discussions and controversies surrounding the adoption
of E-SIM technology by Grameenphone in Bangladesh. These discussions and
controversies have been centered around compatibility issues, security concerns,
technical issues, cost, and a lack of user awareness. In order to resolve these problems
and educate its clients about the advantages of E-SIM technology, Grameenphone
References
"Grameenphone introduces eSIM technology in Bangladesh." Dhaka Tribune.
October 20, 2020.
https://www.dhakatribune.com/business/2020/10/20/grameenphone-introduces-
esim-technology-in-bangladesh.
"eSIM technology: revolutionizing the world of mobile communication." The
Financial Express. February 21, 2022.
https://thefinancialexpress.com.bd/views/esim-technology-revolutionizing-the-
world-of-mobile-communication-1645447947.
"Grameenphone ordered to stop eSIM service." The Daily Star. September 11,
2019. https://www.thedailystar.net/business/news/grameenphone-ordered-stop-
esim-service-1793336.