The humble SIM card has survived for quite a while, but it now finally looks like it’s on its way out. Why? Well, the eSIM, a much smarter technology, is here to save the day.
The mini, micro and nano SIM, consumer IoT is now gearing up for eSIM. Initially introduced by giants Apple, Samsung and Google, the technology is now ready to enter the mainstream consumer market
Defining E-sim :it’s an embedded SIM card (hence the “e”) that is permanently built into your mobile device. It also forms the basis of GSMA’s global specifications that will eventually enable remote SIM provisioning to the entire spectrum of mobile devices.
eSIM provides the freedom to switch between devices (and also service providers) with unprecedented ease, without the need to go and purchase a physical SIM card. The technology means the entire experience of switching between devices and carriers can become seamless if deployed with a high focus on customer experience.
Other manufacturers of connected devices usually devices are also using eSIM It just makes sense it’s less hassle for the customer, more connection options for the manufacturer. And for those types of applications, it really is a win-win. When we start talking about bringing this tech to smartphones, however, its gets a little fuzzier.
Also, this could be a game changer for international travelers who have to swap SIM cards, services, or even carry more than one phone to stay connected. Instead of having to pop into a local cellular provider store to get a new SIM card when travelling abroad, imagine just being able to make a quick phone call (or, like I suggested earlier, open an app) and boom coverage. All without having to jump through hoops or change phones.
Considering we’ve already seen two flagship devices the Apple Watch 3 and Google Pixel 2 ship with eSIMs just this year, I have a feeling this little chip is about to get a lot bigger.
More manufacturers will start including this in their handsets over the next year or so, and carriers will also begin adopting compatibility for their networks. We’ll likely still see traditional SIM setups (at least on phones) for the next little while, but I have no doubt that eSIMs will eventually take over completely.