Why can't we use 3G/4G on two Sim cards together in the same mobile?

Why can’t we use 3G/4G on two SIM cards together in the same mobile?

As of the current year, it is not possible to use 3G/4G on two SIM cards simultaneously in the same mobile device. This limitation arises from the hardware and software configurations of mobile devices.

Mobile devices are typically designed to support multiple SIM cards, allowing users to switch between different cellular networks. However, only one SIM card can be active for data usage at a time. This means that while both SIM cards can be used for voice calls and text messages, only one SIM card can have access to mobile data services such as 3G or 4G.

This limitation is due to the way mobile devices handle network connections and prioritize data traffic. The device software, particularly the operating system, is designed to manage network connections and allocate resources to ensure smooth data transmission. Allowing two SIM cards to simultaneously access 3G/4G data would require extensive modifications to the software and hardware architecture, which is not currently supported.

How?

The way mobile devices handle network connections and prioritize data traffic is primarily determined by the device manufacturer and the mobile operating system being used. These factors dictate which SIM card is allotted data services. Some devices provide options for users to manually select the preferred SIM for data usage, while others may prioritize one SIM over the other based on predefined settings.

For example, on Google Pixel phones, users can open the Settings app, go to Network & internet, select SIMs, and then choose their preferred network for data usage. This allows users to switch between SIM cards for data connectivity, but not use both SIM cards simultaneously for 3G/4G services.

Why?

The main reason for this limitation is the complexity involved in managing data traffic from two different SIM cards on the same mobile device. Mobile networks require unique identifiers, such as International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI), to establish a secure connection with a SIM card. These identifiers are assigned by the network operator and are unique to each SIM card.

When a device connects to a cellular network, it uses the IMSI of the active SIM card to authenticate and establish a secure connection. Allowing two SIM cards to simultaneously access 3G/4G data would require the device to manage two different IMSIs and establish separate connections with the network, which adds complexity and increases the risk of network conflicts and performance issues.

Furthermore, achieving seamless data transmission on a single device with multiple SIM cards would require significant modifications to the hardware and software architecture. This would result in increased costs for device manufacturers and the potential for compatibility issues with existing networks.

Who?

The limitation of using 3G/4G on two SIM cards together in the same mobile device is applicable to all mobile users who wish to have simultaneous data connectivity on multiple SIM cards. This limitation is relevant for individuals who require active data connections on two different networks, such as frequent travelers or individuals with multiple subscriptions.

Device manufacturers, mobile network operators, and software developers are responsible for the design and implementation of mobile devices and operating systems. Their decisions and technical constraints contribute to the current limitation of using 3G/4G on two SIM cards simultaneously.

Although advancements in technology may eventually allow for simultaneous data connectivity on multiple SIM cards, as of the current year, this feature is not yet available.

Additionaal Questions and Answers:

Q: Can dual SIM phones support 3G/4G on one SIM card and 2G on the other?
A: Yes, dual SIM phones can support 3G/4G on one SIM card and 2G on the other. This allows users to have access to higher speed data services on one SIM card while using the other for voice calls or text messages on older network technologies.
Q: Are there any mobile devices that can use 3G/4G on two SIM cards together?
A: As of the current year, there are no mobile devices available that can use 3G/4G on two SIM cards simultaneously. The limitation is embedded in the hardware and software architecture of mobile devices.
Q: Will future advancements in mobile technology enable using 3G/4G on two SIM cards together?
A: While it is possible that future advancements in mobile technology may allow for using 3G/4G on two SIM cards together, there is no specific information or study available at the time of writing that confirms such capability. Mobile device manufacturers and software developers would need to overcome technical challenges and make significant modifications to existing architectures to enable this feature.
Q: Can eSIMs be used to overcome the limitation of using 3G/4G on two SIM cards together?
A: eSIMs, or digital SIMs, offer the convenience of using a cellular plan without a physical nano-SIM. However, eSIMs do not resolve the limitation of using 3G/4G on two SIM cards together. The restriction arises from the device’s hardware and software configuration, not the SIM card type.
Q: Are there any alternative solutions for using 3G/4G on two SIM cards together?
A: Currently, there are no alternative solutions available for using 3G/4G on two SIM cards together on the same mobile device. Users can only switch between SIM cards for data usage or consider using external devices, such as mobile Wi-Fi hotspots or dual-SIM adapters, to achieve simultaneous data connectivity on multiple networks.
Q: How does using dual SIM preferences affect network selection and connectivity?
A: Dual SIM preferences allow users to define their preferred network for data usage on each SIM card. This preference can influence network selection when the device attempts to establish a data connection. Depending on the settings, the device may prioritize a specific network based on predefined rules, signal strength, or other criteria.
Q: Are there any limitations to using dual SIMs on Google Pixel phones?
A: While Google Pixel phones support dual SIM functionality, it is important to note that not all models or configurations may offer this feature. Additionally, the specific implementation and capabilities of dual SIM support may vary depending on the device’s hardware, software version, and regional availability.
Q: Do all countries and mobile network providers support dual SIM functionality?
A: Dual SIM functionality is supported by many mobile network providers and is available in various countries. However, the availability and specific features of dual SIM support may vary depending on the network provider, device manufacturer, and regional regulations.

Please note that the information provided in this article is current as of the year 2023 and may be subject to change. The sources used for this article include various web search results, as well as personal knowledge and understanding of mobile technology and networks.

Sources:

Using Dual SIM with an eSIM. Retrieved on July 10, 2023.

How to use dual SIMs on your Google Pixel phone. Retrieved on July 10, 2023.

Italy | Prepaid Data SIM Card Wiki – Fandom. Retrieved on July 10, 2023.

Why can’t we use 3G/4G on two Sim cards together in the same mobile?