ST4SIM: SIM & eSIM cellular connectivity portfolio
What is an eSIM?
A SIM (subscriber identity module) is essential to authenticate a device within a telecom operator’s network. SIMs are available in various packages. Over time, their sizes have shrunk to meet device manufacturers’ requirements for smaller components. As technology advanced, the market demanded even more compact solutions. This led to the development of the embedded SIM (eSIM), also known as eUICC. Unlike traditional SIMs, eSIMs are soldered directly into the device, providing enhanced reliability and flexibility.
While industry insiders may refer to the eSIM as a SIM in a solderable package, the GSMA specification defines an eSIM as a SIM with remote provisioning capabilities.
eSIM for IoT - What is an eSIM?
A SIM (subscriber identity module) is essential to authenticate a device within a telecom operator’s network. SIMs are available in various packages. Over time, their sizes have shrunk to meet device manufacturers’ requirements for smaller components. As technology advanced, the market demanded even more compact solutions. This led to the development of the embedded SIM (eSIM), also known as eUICC. Unlike traditional SIMs, eSIMs are soldered directly into the device, providing enhanced reliability and flexibility.
While industry insiders may refer to the eSIM as a SIM in a solderable package, the GSMA specification defines an eSIM as a SIM with remote provisioning capabilities.
eSIM or iSIM?
An eSIM and an iSIM are not to be confused. The iSIM provides the same functionality as the eSIM. The key difference between the two is that the eSIM implements the remote SIM provisioning (RSP) functions in a standalone secure electronic component, while the iSIM implements the RSP functionality in a secure area of one electronic component that provides many diverse features. This area is called a secure enclave.
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What is remote SIM provisioning?
eSIM for IoT - Why switch to GSMA eSIM?
What is remote SIM provisioning?
Remote SIM provisioning (RSP) is an over-the-air protocol defined by GSMA. The protocol enables the remote management of SIM profiles. It simplifies the process of adding or replacing a mobile subscription on a connected device. Remote SIM provisioning can be managed securely by an eSIM that complies with the GSMA RSP specification. An eSIM is typically soldered and, in compliance with the GSMA RSP specification, end users are no longer bound to one single provider. They can easily and securely switch between telecom operators.
Which eSIM solution for your needs?
Which eSIM solution for your needs?
From consumer devices to Machine-to-Machine (M2M) applications and the Internet of Things (IoT), each market has unique requirements and expectations. To address these specific needs, GSMA has developed three eSIM specifications for each market segment.
eSIM for IoT - Why switch to GSMA eSIM?
From consumer devices to Machine-to-Machine (M2M) applications and the Internet of Things (IoT), each market has unique requirements and expectations. To address these specific needs, GSMA has developed three eSIM specifications for each market segment.
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M2M eSIM
The Machine-to-Machine (M2M) specification addresses the needs of telecom operators while serving primarily automotive OEMs. Service providers can remotely and securely manage their eSIMs and connected devices through app servers that push profiles to devices. This M2M specification does not require devices to implement specific remote SIM provisioning features.
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Consumer eSIM
The consumer eSIM specification targets feature-rich devices like smartphones that require a superior user experience. To download a new eSIM profile from their mobile network operator (MNO), users only need to scan the QR code. This process is managed by the local profile assistant (LPA).
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eSIM for IoT
The eSIM for IoT specification has been designed for IoT devices that face technological and network connectivity constraints, like NB-IoT. Because IoT devices typically work without human intervention, they require profiles to be pushed to them. The eSIM IoT remote manager (eIM) remotely manages eSIMs, removing the need for a user interface. The eIM interacts with the IoT profile assistant (IPA) on the device, acting as a proxy to the eSIM.
To know more about eSIM for IoT? Watch our videos.
eSIM for IoT - Why are there 3 GSMA specifications for eSIMs?
eSIM for IoT - Why are there 3 GSMA specifications for eSIMs?
Why is GSMA certification a must?
The GSMA ensures functional compliance with the specifications, guaranteeing that the eSIM product is secure and that the profile download is safe –without any risk of keys and data being stolen. GSMA certification is not just mandatory, it also brings several benefits:
- Interoperability: tests are conducted among all eSIM vendors to ensure that the products’ behavior is aligned, therefore guaranteeing the first level of interoperability
- Adoption: The standardized solution and associated ecosystem encourage the adoption of this new technology.
- Consumer trust: GSMA certification is a mark of quality and reliability, which helps to increase consumer trust in eSIM solutions.
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