Android DSDS (Dual SIM Dual Standby) is a feature available on many modern Android smartphones that allows the device to support two SIM cards simultaneously. This means you can use two different phone numbers or networks on a single device, making it particularly useful for users who want to separate personal and work phone numbers or who travel frequently and need to use local SIM cards while keeping their home network active.

What is DSDS?

Dual SIM Dual Standby (DSDS) is a mobile technology that allows two SIM cards to be used at the same time, but with a key distinction: both SIM cards are on standby and can receive calls and messages. This differs from other dual SIM technologies, such as Dual SIM Dual Active (DSDA), where both SIM cards can actively make and receive calls simultaneously.

With DSDS, while both SIM cards are on standby, only one SIM can be used for an active call or data connection at a time. If you’re on a call on one SIM, the other SIM will not be able to make or receive calls. However, the non-active SIM remains connected to the network and can still receive text messages, notifications, or calls, but the call will be routed to voicemail.

How Does DSDS Work on Android?

On Android devices that support DSDS, you can insert two different SIM cards into the phone's SIM tray. The phone will then allow you to manage both SIM cards independently. Typically, you can configure which SIM card will be used for specific tasks like:

  • Calls: You can choose which SIM card is used for making and receiving calls.
  • Data: You can choose which SIM card will be used for mobile data, while the other is still connected to the network for calls and texts.
  • SMS: Text messages can be sent from either SIM, and you can select which one is the default messaging SIM.
  • Roaming: When traveling abroad, you can configure which SIM card is used for roaming, and choose the most cost-effective option.

Benefits of DSDS on Android Devices

  1. Separation of Work and Personal Life: One of the most popular reasons for using a Dual SIM phone with DSDS is to separate work and personal communication. With DSDS, you can easily manage calls, texts, and data on two different networks, making it easier to keep your work and personal life separate without needing two devices.

  2. International Travel Convenience: When traveling abroad, you can use a local SIM card for cheaper data rates and calls while still keeping your home network active on the other SIM card. This eliminates the need for constantly swapping SIM cards, and you don't have to carry multiple devices.

  3. Better Coverage and Network Flexibility: If you live in an area with poor coverage from one carrier, you can opt to have two SIM cards from different network providers. This gives you access to better signal coverage, as you can switch between networks if needed.

  4. Cost Efficiency: With DSDS, you can choose the best carrier based on your needs. For example, you can use one SIM card for data, which might offer cheaper data plans, while using another for calls, which could offer better call rates or a more reliable signal.

  5. No Need for Extra Devices: Instead of carrying multiple phones for work and personal use, DSDS allows you to manage both on a single device, making your life simpler and more efficient.

How to Set Up DSDS on Android Devices

Setting up DSDS on Android is typically straightforward, but the steps might vary slightly depending on the manufacturer and model of the device. Here's a general guide on how to set it up:

  1. Insert Two SIM Cards:

    • Begin by inserting two SIM cards into your Android phone. Most phones with DSDS functionality will have a dual-SIM tray, and some phones allow for two SIM cards and a microSD card simultaneously.

  2. Activate Both SIM Cards:

    • Once the SIM cards are inserted, the phone will recognize both cards. Go to Settings > Network & Internet > SIM cards (or Mobile Network depending on your device) to activate both SIM cards.
    • You can enable or disable each SIM card from this menu.

  3. Configure Default SIM for Calls, SMS, and Data:

    • After activating both SIM cards, you can choose which SIM card you want to use for calls, text messages, and mobile data. In the SIM cards settings, you'll be able to select the default SIM for each service.
    • For example, you can choose SIM 1 for mobile data and SIM 2 for calls and SMS, or vice versa.

  4. Managing Dual SIM Settings:

    • Android phones with DSDS also allow you to assign different ringtones to each SIM card, making it easier to know which line is being called.
    • Some Android phones also offer a feature where you can prioritize one SIM card for certain contacts, or set it to automatically use the preferred SIM card for specific services (such as mobile data or international roaming).

  5. Making Calls and Sending SMS:

    • When you make a call or send a message, Android will prompt you to select which SIM card you’d like to use (unless you've set a default SIM for each function).
    • You can change the active SIM at any time by going into the SIM cards settings and swapping which one is active for calls, messages, and data.

Limitations of DSDS on Android

  1. No Simultaneous Calls:

    • DSDS only allows one SIM to be active at a time for making and receiving calls. If you're on a call with one SIM, the other SIM cannot make or receive calls until the call ends.

  2. Battery Drain:

    • Although DSDS allows both SIMs to be on standby, it can drain the battery more quickly than a single-SIM device, especially if both SIM cards are actively searching for a network. It's important to keep an eye on battery usage when using DSDS.

  3. Data and Roaming Restrictions:

    • Some devices may only support one SIM card for mobile data at a time, meaning you cannot use both SIM cards simultaneously for internet access. Additionally, the phone may not automatically switch to the best SIM for roaming, depending on the configuration.

  4. Compatibility Issues:

    • Some older Android devices or budget models might not support DSDS, limiting your ability to take advantage of this feature. It is essential to check if your device explicitly supports dual SIM functionality.

  5. Carrier Limitations:

    • Not all carriers support dual SIM functionality, so it’s important to verify with your carrier that they support DSDS if you plan to use two different carriers in one phone.

Devices with DSDS Support

Many modern Android smartphones come with DSDS support, including flagship and mid-range devices. Popular brands such as Samsung, OnePlus, Xiaomi, Huawei, and Oppo have been incorporating DSDS into their devices for years.

Here are some devices that support DSDS functionality:

  • Samsung Galaxy S21, S20, and Note Series
  • OnePlus 9, 8T, and Nord Series
  • Xiaomi Mi 11 and Mi 10 Series
  • Oppo Find X3 and Reno Series
  • Huawei P40, P30, and Mate Series

Conclusion

Android DSDS is a useful feature that allows users to manage two SIM cards simultaneously on one device. Whether for business and personal use, international travel, or better network coverage, DSDS offers flexibility and convenience. While there are some limitations to consider, such as the inability to make simultaneous calls from both SIM cards, the overall benefits make it a desirable feature for many users.

If you're interested in using two SIM cards in one device, it’s worth exploring Android devices that support DSDS, as it can make managing multiple phone numbers easier and more efficient.