The emerging tech revolutionizing SIM cards

With the advancements in technology, the mobile devices we use are becoming smarter and more powerful every day. However, one component that has largely remained the same over the years is the SIM card. The SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) card is what allows your device to connect to mobile networks and make calls/use data. While the traditional SIM card has served us well so far, a new technology is emerging that promises to enhance the mobile experience - the eSIM.

What is an eSIM?
An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is an integrated circuit that securely stores your network credentials like your phone number and subscription information. Unlike a physical nano or micro SIM card, an eSIM is embedded directly into the device during manufacturing. This embedded chip allows users to remotely activate and switch mobile plans without having to physically insert or change a SIM card.

Benefits of eSIM

Convenience of remote activations and switching plans
One of the biggest advantages of an eSIM is the convenience it provides to users. With an eSIM, users can remotely activate a new mobile plan or switch carriers entirely from the comfort of their home using just their device and a mobile app. No more waiting at carrier stores or dealing with physical SIM cards.

Multiple profiles on a single device
Another notable benefit of eSIM is the ability to have multiple mobile network profiles active on a single device simultaneously. For example, users can have their personal cellular plan activated as the primary profile while also having a work or international roaming profile available on the same device. This allows seamless switching between profiles depending on the scenario.

End of lost or damaged SIM cards
One hassle that plagues traditional SIM users is dealing with lost, damaged or stolen SIM cards. With an eSIM embedded into the device, this issue does not arise. Users can rest easy knowing their mobile connectivity is safely stored within their phone and not as a separate physical card that can get misplaced. Say goodbye to retrival fees or having to get replacement SIMs.

Supports new IoT services and connectivity
As eSIMs do away with the need for physical SIM cards, they are opening up new opportunities for Internet of Things (IoT) services and devices. More and connected objects from headphones to home appliances can now easily get online cellular connectivity through eSIMs without the hassle of physical cards. This will further accelerate the growth of IoT technology.

How does eSIM work?
The embedded SIM works very similar to a traditional SIM card in terms of functionality like allowing data, calls, texts etc. However, instead of a removable chip, the eSIM is a dedicated embedded computer chip soldered directly onto the motherboard during manufacturing.

Profile Management & Activation
Like physical SIM cards which are activated by carriers upon purchase, eSIM profiles also need to be configured and activated before use. This is done remotely via an eSIM profile management system. Using a mobile app provided by carriers or device manufacturers, users can browse available plans, select one, and initiate the activation process. The profile is then remotely downloaded and provisioned directly to the embedded chip.

Security Features
Given the eSIM resides within the device system, strong security features have been implemented to preserve privacy and prevent fraudulent activity. Each eSIM comes with its own Integrated Circuit Card ID (ICCID) just like physical SIM cards for identification. The profile activation process involves encryption keys and authentication to securely tie a particular eSIM to a user's subscribed mobile plan. Protections are also in place to not allow multiple active connections simultaneously for the same number.

Adoption and future of eSIM

- Growing adoption

The eSIM technology has seen an uptick in adoption globally over the past few years. Major phone brands like Apple, Samsung and Google have started including the capability in their flagship devices. An increasing number of carriers too now offer eSIM services. Areas that have led the way include US, Western Europe and Asia regions. As the benefits become more apparent to consumers and businesses, the deployment of eSIM is expected to rise significantly in the coming years.

- Industry push

Major industry alliances like GSMA that fosters mobile technology advancement have been actively promoting the use of eSIM globally. Their efforts aim to standardize eSIM requirements for implementation across markets and accelerate the transition from physical SIM cards. Manufacturers and carriers recognize the advantages eSIM brings and have been working closely to optimize the user experience around activations, availability and interoperability of profiles.

- Future potential

As 5G networks begin rollout and IoT/connected devices see larger adoption internationally, the role of eSIM is poised to rise substantially. Being embedded directly will allow seamless cellular connectivity in smaller form factor devices without the hassle of physical cards. Advances in eSIM technology could even make it a replacement for all SIM card variants going forward. With further innovations and mass deployments, eSIM clearly represents the future of SIM cards and will transform how we experience mobile connectivity.