eSIM for M2M

What is the GSMA Embedded SIM Specification?

The GSMA’s Embedded SIM Specification provides a single, de-facto standard mechanism for the remote provisioning and management of machine to machine (M2M) connections, allowing the “over the air” provisioning of an initial operator subscription, and the subsequent change of subscription from one operator to another. GSMA Embedded SIM is a vital enabler for Machine to Machine (M2M) connections including the simple and seamless mobile connection of all types of connected machines.

M2M offers a huge market opportunity

Mobile networks are being used to connect all sorts of devices; automated reading of utility meters, intelligent connectivity of cars and commercial vehicles to enable drivers to access navigation, infotainment or breakdown services, traffic lights, home security and assisted living. The number of mobile connected devices is expected to be 10.5 billion by 2020, resulting in a huge new market opportunity, predominantly in the machine to machine (M2M) and consumer electronics sectors. All parties in the M2M ecosystem will struggle if we remain solely dependent upon the traditional SIM card, which is predicated on only associating with one network operator.

This is because changing SIM cards is problematical for many business-to-business (B2B) customers. For the industry, optimising manufacturing process is a key challenge that GSMA Embedded SIM solves by providing a global product for a global manufacturing process with local provisioning when the product is deployed in the field. It also solves the challenge of managing those devices in the field when many M2M devices are remotely located, often hermetically sealed, their after sale location is not known during production and furthermore their product life cycles are lengthy. Many of the interfaces and processes needed to make the remote provisioning of SIMs work are virtually identical to current SIM personalisation processes and interfaces used by mobile operators today.

The latest version of the GSMA specification now includes Profile Interoperability that will simplify the process of connecting M2M devices and enhance the flexibility for how mobile network operators and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) do business in the future.

The GSMA Embedded SIM Specification has been backed by over twenty operators, two leading M2M Alliances and a host of OEMs. The full array of documents pertaining to the GSMA Embedded SIM Specification can be found below, or alternatively in our resources, along with other Connected Living case studies, documents, reports and guidelines.

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