by What is an embedded SIM?
An embedded SIM is an eSIM or integrated circuit chip that is built directly into smartphones and other connected devices. The embedded SIM allows users to activate and switch cellular plans directly from the device settings without having to swap a physical SIM card. Rather than using a removable plastic SIM card, the embedded SIM contains the same functions as a traditional SIM but is permanently embedded in the device during manufacturing.
Evolution of the SIM Card
The SIM card was first introduced in the early 1990s as a way to identify mobile subscribers on GSM networks. Traditional eSIM cards are credit card sized plastic chips that contain a unique identifying number as well as storage for contacts, messages and other subscriber data. Over the past few decades, as mobile technology advanced, SIM card sizes decreased from full-size to mini and then micro SIM cards to accommodate the slimmer smartphone designs. However, the SIM card still remained a removable component that needed to be swapped between devices. The transition to embedded embedded SIM chips eliminates the need for a physical SIM slot and associated swapping process altogether.
Advantages of eSIM Technology
Convenience: With an embedded SIM, users no longer need to physically swap SIM cards between devices or when switching cellular plans. Plans and carrier information are downloaded remotely through an Over-The-Air (OTA) process for instant activation. This brings much more flexibility and convenience compared to traditional SIM cards.
Device Manufacturing: By embedding the SIM directly into the device circuitry, phone manufacturers save internal space by eliminating the SIM slot. This allows for slimmer industrial designs without compromising connectivity features.
Dual SIM Support: Some embedded SIM enabled devices support two integrated SIM profiles which can be actively used at the same time. This provides benefits like separate work and personal lines on a single device without using dual SIM dual standby (DSDS).
Remote Provisioning: Unlike physical SIM cards that require in-person activation, embedded SIM profiles can be set up or changed remotely via an online or OTA process. This provides better management capabilities for IoT and M2M solutions.
Security: With no external SIM card to lose or replace, embedded SIM configured devices have reduced risks of physical SIM swaps or theft of subscriber information from stolen cards.
Benefits for Carriers and Users
Carriers now also gain more efficient embedded SIM provisioning workflows as part of digital transformation initiatives. With the capability to remotely activate, suspend or transfer cellular plans, carriers have better control over the activation process. For users, embedded SIM enabled devices open up more flexible device usage models. Users are no longer tied down to specific carriers and can instantly switch providers through simple software changes. This promotes greater competition in the cellular market. Travelers also benefit from the ability to easily obtain temporary local connectivity while abroad without relying on physical SIM swaps or global roaming plans.
Future Applications of eSIM Technology
Wearables: As smartwatches and other wearable devices continue to evolve as mini computers in their own right, embedded SIM will play a crucial role in enabling their standalone cellular connectivity without the physical constraints of SIM card slots.
IoT Devices: From smart city infrastructure to connected vehicles, embedded embedded SIMs provide a scalable solution for remotely provisioning cellular connectivity across billions of IoT endpoints.
Dual SIM Smartphones: More flagship smartphones are embracing integrated embedded SIM + Nano SIM dual SIM functionality. This brings the convenience of separate work-personal lines without sacrificing device real estate.
Digital Transformation of MVNOs: Mobile virtual network operators are leveraging embedded SIM capabilities for fast provisioning into their networks as well as direct device level controls. This streamlines the MVNO business model.
In summary, the eSIM revolutionises the way cellular connectivity is delivered by removing the bottleneck of physical SIM cards. As a permanent embedded component, embedded SIMs play an instrumental role in enabling future applications across industries from IoT to consumer electronics. Over time, embedded SIM adoption will continue increasing led by major technological and market drivers across consumer and enterprise domains.
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1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public Source, Desk Research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it.
