9 reasons why eSIMs are catching on

 Innovation m2m Internet Of Things eSIM Mobile Mobile Innovation

​The subscriber identity module (SIM) was central to the rapid spread of the mobile phone, securely storing the subscriber's identity when the device was connected to the network.

But as machine to machine (M2M) communications developed and enabled all kinds of devices to be connected, from energy meters to cars, the limitations of the SIM became apparent. 

It needed to be accessible, was not sturdy enough to withstand extreme temperatures or shocks, and was too large for some intended uses.

Here comes the eSIM.

The embedded SIM (eSIM) solves all these problems and creates new opportunities for manufacturers and mobile network operators (MNOs).

1. eSIMs are rugged

The eSIM can be soldered inside a device and then sealed, making it water- and temperature-resistant. This makes it more robust and ideal for use in a connected car, for example, which may well be driven in extreme heat and bumpy roads.

2. They can be connected remotely

Multiple mobile operators' profiles can be generated and securely downloaded and provisioned over the air onto an eSIM, based upon the Remote SIM Provisioning specifications set out by the mobile operators' trade body, the GSMA.

As well as industrial uses, this has major benefits for manufacturers of consumer devices.

 In a survey presented by Telefonica at the World eSIM Summit 2018, 60% of respondents said they want effortless device activation. The eSIM provides that; when buying a wearable, a tablet, or a smartphone containing an eSIM, a consumer can activate connectivity at the point of sale.

3. eSIMs are small

According to Jean-Christophe Tisseuil, Head of SIM Technology at the GSMA, "the space saved by embedding a SIM can be as much as 90% on a physical card." 

Thanks to this, the reach of the eSIM extends to new consumer devices like smartwatches, wristbands, and rings, increasing the number of mobile connections and thus the size of the potential market for MNOs.

4. They are interoperable

The GSMA brought together 40 players from across the eSIM ecosystem to agree on a standard that enables users to switch between any available network easily.

5. They are secure

An eSIM is not software, but sending profiles over the air could, in theory, introduce a risk of hacking. To combat this, the GSMA has worked with MNOs and other stakeholders to guarantee the secure encryption and transportation of operator credentials. 

6. eSIM streamline logistics for MNOs

MNOs used to have to deal with the logistics of handling millions of SIM cards. With the availability of eSIMs, they can develop truly digital experiences for their subscribers while reducing the burden on their supply chain and gaining customer loyalty.

7. Consumer brands are adopting them

The consumer IoT market is increasingly adopting eSIMs in devices from computers to wearables. Notable products with eSIMs include Apple's SmartWatch, the Google Pixel 2 phone, and the Microsoft Surface Pro tablet. This again creates exciting new opportunities for MNOs.

2018 iPhone generation (i.e. iPhone 9, iPhone X(s) and iPhone X(s) Plus) is rumored to bear eSIM.

With almost 1.25 billion units sold since 2007​, Apple's flagship smartphone represents a fantastic, widely-spread platform for new usage education and massive eSIM awareness among consumers worldwide.

8. eSIM are still improving

The third phase of the Remote SIM Provisioning specifications, which are expected to be released in the second half of 2018, promises to create an even better user experience.

9. They will power the future

With 5G connectivity set to alter mobile services radically, the eSIM will play an integral role. When 5G becomes standard, devices containing them will possess incredibly robust processing power and rely on the eSIM to manage their connection.​

10. Contents related to eSIM

 

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