Apple and Samsung Company are teaming up to release e-SIM Card

Big cell phone makers are trying to develop a software based alternative to Sim card. Apple Samsung Company is working on this solution. According to a statement in the Financial Times, the two rivals are engaged in negotiations with various mobile service providers to implement a new type of SIM card.

The report claims that the new product, called an e-SIM, would remain inside your phone—unlocked—and allow you to change network service providers through your cell phone OS.

That sounds like it would save a lot of headaches, but don't hold your breath just yet. SIM locking is an advantageous feature for wireless service providers, as it discourages—or at least complicates—casual network swapping.

Regardless, a number of major service providers have apparently already shown some degree of interest in switching to e-SIM, including AT&T, T-Mobile, Vodafone, and Orange. Still, don't expect to see one of this next-gen SIM cards in a cell phone anytime this year.

The FT claims they won't emerge until 2016. In the meantime, apple iPhone customers may have another option: apple SIM. This technology, which allows people to switch between a few major service providers from within iOS, is currently available in the apple iPad Air 2 and iPad Mini 3, and a similar version may appear in future versions of the iPhone.