The concept of SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) cards has been around since 1991. Since then, SIM cards have been upgraded and modernized to fit the needs of today’s technology. As adaptations are made to our devices, necessary technology is required to maintain seamless connectivity.
The eSIM (embedded SIM) was introduced to the market in the 2010’s more notably established in 2017 when Apple launched eSIM with the Apple Watch Series 3, the first LTE-capable Apple Watch. Over the coming years, a substantial shift occurred towards eSIM adoption with GSMA Intelligence predicting 850 million eSIM smartphone connections globally by 2025 and growing to 6.7 billion by 2030.
However, there are a few types of SIM card solutions on the market, such as the iSIM, and it’s important to know the difference. So, what’s the difference between the eSIM and iSIM?
A SIM card is a physical, removable chip that is used to connect a device to a mobile network. It’s what pairs that device to the specific carrier. eSIM leverages the SIM card into a universally compatible card that can connect to any cellular carrier or technology.
Typically, SIM cards cannot be replaced remotely, and a physical switch is required to change network carriers. The device would need a different SIM card for each carrier it connects to – the carrier profile is unique to each SIM. With eSIM, you have a carrier-agnostic approach because profiles are downloadable, meaning when you switch from one carrier to another, it occurs digitally, instead of physically as is the case with traditional SIMs.
An iSIM (integrated SIM) is a small chip that can be embedded in a device to store the user's SIM card data. The user's SIM card is not required to be inserted into the device, but rather it transmits data via iSIM. Similar to eSIMs, iSIMs replace the need for a physical SIM card. iSIMs have been available since 2016 and have remained uncommon in the market; although, the iSIM is positioned to be a next step in the evolution of SIM cards.
iSIM offers great connectivity for specific solutions. However, it is not projected to take over the eSIM market. Some of the main benefits of iSIM can be seen in more consumer-facing products, such as small wearable devices.
Because eSIM technology can support multiple carrier profiles, the result is future-proofed and reliable. The impact of eSIM for IoT is comprehensive and benefits can look like:
KORE offers simple eSIM solutions to best fit your connectivity needs. Our OmniSIM Rush and OmniSIM Reach options take the complexity out of global deployments. KORE provides comprehensive solutions and eSIM technology that give you all of the flexibility you need to get started today. Learn more about our offerings and eSIM solutions here.
Not sure if you’re ready for the next step? Take our eSIM Readiness Assessment now and talk to an expert about getting started.