If future handhelds come with built-in cellular hardware and eSIM support, users may be able to connect directly to mobile networks when outdoors, eliminating the need to turn on their phone's hotspot. An analytical article by Tech4Gamers proposed this design concept, while emphasizing that the cloud gaming experience still depends on actual network quality.
The article suggests that improvements in handheld performance and cloud gaming services allow players to access more games while on the go. However, unstable public Wi-Fi and the hassle of using mobile hotspots can still affect multiplayer gaming, cloud gaming, remote play, as well as updates and save synchronization. Handhelds with eSIM support can connect to the internet via compatible data plans without needing a physical SIM card or relying on phone tethering.
However, eSIM itself does not make the network faster or more stable. Signal coverage, network congestion, data plans, and device hardware still determine connection quality. Switching base stations while on a moving train or passing through areas with weak signals can cause latency, reduced image quality, or even disconnections, which is particularly detrimental to competitive games.
Adding cellular connectivity also increases the hardware cost and power consumption of handheld consoles. Cloud gaming, which continuously streams audio and video, as well as downloading large updates, can also consume significant amounts of data. The article mentions the Steam Deck and ASUS ROG Ally to illustrate the usage scenarios of existing handhelds, not to claim that these devices have announced eSIM support.