What is an eSIM?

At KORE, we’re at the forefront of connectivity innovation, and eSIM technology is central to our mission. This blog will walk you through what an eSIM is, its benefits, how it differs from traditional SIM technology, and how KORE OmniSIM™ can power your IoT connectivity.

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM, or embedded SIM, signifies a new approach to connectivity, specifically tailored for IoT’s unique demands. Unlike the standard consumer eSIM, which focuses on mobile device compatibility and flexibility, IoT eSIMs meet industry standards and requirements for secure, long-term, and resilient connectivity in diverse environments. KORE’s eSIM technology is built for IoT, ensuring reliability, scalability, and remote management across massive deployments.

Did you know? Even though the term “eSIM” stands for “embedded SIMs” - eSIMs are available in removable form factors as well. 

Key Features of eSIM:

While eSIM offers convenient connectivity for consumer devices, IoT eSIMs must withstand more complex conditions and meet higher standards for security and operational efficiency. Here are the key features that distinguish eSIM in IoT applications: 

• Remote Provisioning: IoT eSIMs, built on the eUICC standard, allow over-the-air profile provisioning, meaning that network profiles can be updated and switched remotely without manual intervention. This is especially critical for IoT devices that may be in remote or difficult-to-access areas.
• Enhanced Security: eSIMs eliminate the need for physical removal or replacement when a network is sunsetted, allowing devices to maintain a more secure design. The eSIM can be remotely locked or disabled, reducing the risk of tampering and maintaining device integrity. 
• Long-Term Reliability: Unlike consumer eSIMs, IoT eSIMs are designed to operate for years, if not decades, ensuring continuity in environments where devices may need connectivity over a long lifecycle. 

How Did eSIM Technology Develop? 

Traditional SIM cards, known as Subscriber Identity Modules, have long connected devices to mobile networks. However, physical SIM cards became limiting as IoT applications grew, particularly for devices deployed in remote or rugged environments. In 2016, the GSMA (Global System for Mobile Communications Association) introduced the eSIM standard, envisioning a remotely manageable SIM to simplify network provisioning for IoT devices. By enabling “over-the-air” provisioning, eSIMs reduce the need for physical SIM swaps and provide more flexible connectivity options. 

Benefits of eSIM for IoT Connectivity

For IoT applications, the advantages of eSIM technology are game-changing. Here’s why eSIM is particularly well-suited for IoT devices:

1. Future-Proofed Connectivity: Many IoT devices remain in the field for 10+ years, during which network standards and carrier relationships may evolve. eSIM technology allows devices to switch carriers and update settings as needed, ensuring connectivity throughout their lifecycle. This adaptability is especially important in IoT sectors like fleet management, healthcare, and smart cities, where reliable long-term connectivity is crucial.
2. Cost-Efficiency Through Remote Management: IoT deployments often involve thousands of devices spread across various locations. eSIMs eliminate the need for costly site visits to swap SIM cards by enabling remote provisioning. For example, if an organization needs to change network providers, they can do so from a centralized platform without sending a technician to each device.
3. Simplified Logistics and Reduced Downtime: With eSIMs, companies can set up devices with an initial carrier profile and later modify the network settings remotely. This simplifies logistics, as devices don’t need to be returned to a specific location for reprogramming. Industries with large mobile fleets or extensive asset networks, like transportation and logistics, benefit significantly from this streamlined approach.
4. Security and Reliability: eSIMs are ruggedized and embedded directly into the device, making them more secure than traditional SIM cards, which can be lost, damaged, or tampered with. Many eSIMs also support GSMA IoT SAFE standards, which ensure secure communication from device to cloud, critical for industries with stringent security requirements, such as finance and healthcare.
5. Global, Borderless Connectivity: For IoT devices that need to operate globally, eSIM’s ability to switch between carriers in different regions ensures consistent and reliable coverage. This feature is particularly beneficial for companies deploying IoT solutions that cross borders, such as international logistics and supply chain operations. 

Key Use Cases of eSIM in IoT

1. Fleet and Asset Tracking: The logistics sector relies on connectivity to track and manage assets as they move across geographies. With eSIM, organizations can use one standard SIM profile in vehicles worldwide and switch networks remotely depending on location, reducing the complexity of international deployments.
2. Healthcare and Medical Devices: Many healthcare devices now operate in mobile environments, from remote patient monitoring systems to emergency medical equipment. eSIM’s ability to adapt to network changes and provide reliable connectivity is crucial for healthcare IoT, ensuring that these devices work seamlessly no matter where they are.
3. Smart Cities and Utilities: Smart city solutions such as water meters, energy grids, and public safety systems benefit from eSIM's flexibility. These IoT devices are often deployed for long periods and require reliable connectivity without frequent physical maintenance, making eSIM an ideal choice.
4. Consumer Electronics: Wearables and other consumer devices are increasingly adopting eSIM technology to offer global connectivity without requiring users to switch SIM cards when traveling. This convenience has made eSIM popular among manufacturers looking to streamline connectivity across regions. 

eSIM Compared to Similar and Compatible Technologies

While eSIM and traditional SIMs share many core functions, some key differences make eSIM particularly beneficial for IoT:

• Remote Provisioning: Unlike traditional SIMs, which require physical swaps to change network profiles, eSIMs (based on the eUICC standard) allow remote profile provisioning. This flexibility is essential for IoT deployments, enabling seamless carrier changes without manual intervention.
• Flexible Form Factor: Both eSIMs and traditional SIMs can be either removable or embedded. However, eSIMs are specifically designed to fit into compact, embedded IoT devices or to be offered in a removable format, accommodating a broader range of IoT applications.
• Multi-IMSI Compatibility: eSIM technology can integrate with Multi-IMSI capabilities, allowing devices to access multiple network identities. This compatibility enhances connectivity options for global IoT deployments, enabling devices to switch carriers as needed across regions. 

KORE OmniSIM: A Superior eSIM Solution for IoT

At KORE, we’ve developed OmniSIM, a robust eSIM solution designed to meet the demands of IoT. OmniSIM allows companies to remotely provision and manage IoT devices, ensuring continuous connectivity across multiple networks worldwide. By leveraging OmniSIM, KORE’s customers gain access to features like:

• Scalability: OmniSIM supports large-scale IoT deployments, making it easy to add or adjust devices without complex logistics.
• Network Resilience: With OmniSIM, devices can automatically switch to the best available network, minimizing the risk of connectivity loss.
• Global Reach: OmniSIM’s multi-network capabilities allow devices to connect in over 180 countries, making it ideal for global IoT initiatives.

Choosing the Right eSIM Partner

Implementing eSIM is more than just a technological upgrade – it’s a strategic decision. Working with a trusted partner like KORE ensures that you gain access to a true eSIM solution that provides the benefits and flexibility needed for IoT. Our team understands the unique connectivity challenges of IoT and offers end-to-end support, from initial setup to ongoing management. 

Future of eSIM in IoT

The demand for eSIM in IoT is only growing. Analysts project that by 2025, eSIM will support over 2 billion devices globally across various sectors, transforming how we approach connectivity in an increasingly connected world. As more industries adopt eSIM, the need for reliable, scalable solutions will become even more critical.

Get Started with KORE’s OmniSIM

The potential of eSIM technology is vast, offering benefits that simplify logistics, reduce costs, and future-proof IoT deployments. KORE OmniSIM empowers organizations to take full advantage of eSIM’s capabilities, ensuring seamless connectivity across a broad range of IoT applications.

If you’re ready to unlock the power of eSIM for your IoT needs, reach out to KORE and discover how our solutions can enhance your connectivity strategy. Learn more and speak with one of our connectivity experts about what KORE OmniSIM can do for your business.