eSIM

An embedded-SIM (eSIM) or embedded universal integrated circuit card (eUICC) is a form of programmable SIM card that is embedded directly into a device.

In machine-to-machine (M2M) applications, where there is no requirement to change the SIM card, this avoids the requirement for a connector. This improves reliability, network security and security, while also reducing space requirements, since a relatively bulky connector is no longer needed, increasing design flexibility. An eSIM can be provisioned remotely; end-users can add or remove operators without the need to physically swap a SIM from the device.[1]

eSIM is a global specification by the GSMA which enables remote SIM provisioning of any mobile device. GSMA defines eSIM as the SIM for the next generation of connected consumer device. Networking solutions using eSIM technology can be widely applicable to various Internet of Things (IoT) scenarios, including connected cars (smart rearview mirrors, on-board diagnostics (OBD), vehicle Wi-Fi hotspots), as well as artificial intelligence translators, MiFi devices, smart earphones, smart metering, GPS tracking units, DTU, bike-sharing, advertising players, video surveillance devices, etc.

The surface mount format provides the same electrical interface as the full size, 2FF, 3FF and 4FF SIM cards, but is soldered to a circuit board as part of the manufacturing process. The eSIM format is commonly designated as MFF2.[2]

History

Since 2010, the GSMA had been discussing the possibility of a software-based SIM card.[3]

While Motorola noted that eUICC is geared at industrial devices, Apple "disagreed that there is any statement forbidding the use of an embedded UICC in a consumer product."

A first version of the standard was published in March 2016, followed by a second version in November 2016.

In 2015, the Samsung Gear S2 smart watch was the first device to implement an eSIM.

In 2017, during Mobile World Congress, Qualcomm introduced a technical solution, with a live demonstration, within its Snapdragon hardware chip associated with related software (secured Java applications).

Implementations

The European Commission selected in 2012[4] the embedded UICC format for its in-vehicle emergency call service, known as eCall. All new car models in the EU must have one by 2018 to instantly connect the car to emergency services in case of an accident.

Russia has a similar plan with the GLONASS (national satellite positioning system) called ERA-GLONASS.[5]

Singapore is seeking public opinions on introducing eSIM as a new standard, as more compatible devices enter the market.[6]

Apple implemented eSIM support in its Apple Watch Series 3 and later,[7][8] in addition to every iPad they've released since the iPad Pro (2018). Apple also included eSIM support with the iPhone XS and later. eSIM support on iPhone requires iOS 12.1 or later. Not all iPhones sold worldwide have eSIM support; Apple removed this feature from models intended for mainland China.[9] Apple has seven worldwide service providers that offer eSIM service: GigSky, MTX Connect, Redtea Mobile, Soracom Mobile, Truphone, Ubigi, and Webbing.[10]

Google unveiled the Pixel 2 in October 2017, which added eSIM support for use with its Google Fi service.[11] In 2018, Google released the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL, and subsequently in May 2019, the Pixel 3a and Pixel 3a XL, with eSIM support for carriers other than Google Fi.[12][13][14] In October that same year, Google released the Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL with eSIM support.

Motorola released the 2020 version of the Motorola Razr, a foldable smartphone that has no physical SIM slot as it only supports eSIM.

Plintron implemented the eSIM4Things Internet of things product, based on eSIM support for the devices and available in 28 countries.[15]

Microsoft introduced eSIM to the Windows 10 operating system in 2018,[16] and launched its first eSIM-enabled device, Surface Pro LTE, in 2017.[17]

Extreme International founders of the Extreme Sports Channel announced they will launch ExtremeConnect on 15th January 2020 a mobile network that is only using esim technology and a complex technical routing network giving it faster data speeds for consumers. It includes voice, data and text service in 140 countries with local numbers in the following territories USA, UK, France, Hong Kong, Australia, Spain, Germany, Netherlands and Poland.

References
  1. "eUICC – The Future for SIM Technology". PodM2M. 2019-07-05.
  2. "Clearing up the term "eSIM"". Hologram. Retrieved 2019-11-23.
  3. Diana ben-Aaron (2010-11-18). "GSMA Explores Software-Based Replacement for Mobile SIM Cards". Bloomberg. p. 1. Retrieved 2014-10-17.
  4. Ziegler, Chris (2012-06-01). "Embedded SIMs: they're happening, and Apple thinks they could be in consumer products". The Verge. Vox Media. Retrieved 2014-10-25.
  5. Bruno, Duarte (2014-09-27). "eUICC – embedded Universal Integrated Circuit Card". Coswitched.com. Retrieved 2014-10-25.
  6. "Switch mobile operator without changing SIM cards? IMDA wants feedback on eSIM tech". CNA. Retrieved 2019-05-30.
  7. Evans, Jonny. "Apple Watch Series 4: A review". Computerworld. Retrieved 2018-11-09.
  8. Martin, Jim. "Until now, all iPhones have been single SIM, but with eSIM you can have two phone numbers". Macworld UK. Retrieved 2018-11-09.
  9. "Which iPhone models have eSIM support?". eSIM Reviews. Retrieved 2020-09-07.
  10. "Find wireless carriers that offer eSIM service". Apple Support. Retrieved 2020-06-26.
  11. "Google's Pixel 2 phones are the first to use built-in eSIM technology". The Verge. Retrieved 2018-11-09.
  12. "Set up and manage eSIM - Google Fi Help". support.google.com. Retrieved 2019-07-01.
  13. "Google Pixel 3a hands-on: a cheaper Pixel with stunning camera". xda-developers. 2019-05-07. Retrieved 2019-07-01.
  14. Wiggers, Kyle (2019-05-07). "Google unveils the Pixel 3a and Pixel 3a XL". VentureBeat.
  15. "eSIM for Internet Of Things: A review". telecompaper. Retrieved 2018-07-26.
  16. "Use an eSIM to get a cellular data connection on your Windows 10 PC". Retrieved 2019-12-24.
  17. Warren, Tom (2017-10-31). "Microsoft's Surface Pro with LTE launches on December 1st". The Verge. Retrieved 2020-08-30.
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