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Embedded Universal Integrated Circuit Card (eUICC) technology is central to the Internet of Things (IoT). It is the software component of an embedded SIM (eSIM) platform. With it, IoT device connectivity managers can provision and manage the device’s mobile connection details (profiles) over the air. Dedicated platforms accomplish this through remote SIM provisioning (RSP).
eUICC is based on a global GSMA-sponsored standard embraced by mobile operators worldwide. This standard enables use cases that require streamlined logistics. It helps devices move from the factory to the field and into operation.
Future-Proof Your IoT Deployment
Why Is eUICC Important?
Each year, more IoT devices connect to the public internet and private networks. Statista projects that global IoT devices will more than double between 2025 and 2034. The number is expected to rise from 19.8 billion to over 40.6 billion. Experts expect consumer IoT use to remain at 60% of all connected devices through 2035.
Other than fixed device deployments within home coverage, maintaining device connections with traditional SIMs can be challenging and increase overall costs. Unlike eSIMs, users must manually insert physical SIMs into the device’s SIM slot after manufacturing.
In some cases, users must remove and replace their SIMs to accommodate changes in network coverage. IoT devices often remain in service for a decade or longer. These changes can occur multiple times during the device’s life cycle. Other issues arise when devices must use a mobile network local to a specific region, such as a device sold in the U.S. that is shipped to Europe.
What Benefits Does eUICC Offer?
The eUICC standard empowers eSIMs with significant advantages over traditional SIMs. In addition to supporting all new form factors, eSIMs enable remote programming and manage multiple connectivity profiles.
RSP and switching between multiple connectivity profiles allow devices to navigate between roaming and coverage restrictions within a single profile. This navigation supports local networks (i.e., localization) in a secondary profile and is done remotely through eUICC’s capabilities.
eSIMs enable a single stock-keeping unit (SKU) of a device to be used in numerous countries. In most cases, a SIM with eUICC functionality will include local profiles (i.e., native profiles). These can support deployment in permanent roaming restriction markets.
eUICC technology provides greater flexibility. It allows the device to select the appropriate connectivity profile for each use case. It also chooses the preferred cellular technology for the deployment country.
The eUICC software brings greater overall resilience and cost stability, which are highly valued by the market.
What Are the Challenges?
Implementing eUICC often involves high complexity and cost. It requires:
- Interoperability across multiple mobile network operators (MNOs)
- Integration with RSP systems
- Careful management of profile downloads to avoid connectivity failures
What Is the Best Solution for True Global Coverage?
Many industries require a comprehensive solution for global and local deployments. Cellular IoT manufacturers can meet these needs by combining multi-IMSI technology with an additional local profile through eUICC. This approach helps devices operate reliably across borders. It simplifies connectivity management in multicountry deployments.
Today’s advanced eSIM platforms simulate the multi-IMSI functionality at the profile level, addressing post-deployment challenges. They enable additional features that strengthen edge devices in the field with resilient, always-on global connectivity
NExT eSIM Flex: Roaming and Localization on a Single eSIM
NExT™ eSIM Flex is a future-ready global SIM solution featuring eUICC and IoT roaming capabilities. It enables secure, remote switching between global roaming and local profiles. NExT eSIM Flex ensures you’ll need only one eSIM for your deployment’s complete life cycle.
The NExT portfolio supports global deployment of advanced SIM technologies, including:
- eUICC: NExT eSIM Flex provides flexible, remote profile management and combines local and global solutions
- Multi-IMSI: NExT global SIMs enable seamless, continuous connectivity by switching between multiple network identities
NExT eSIM provisioning ensures secure, over-the-air updates and configurations.
Global IoT Connectivity with Telit Cinterion
Telit Cinterion’s IoT connectivity services include:
- Global connectivity plans
- SIM and eSIM cards
- Advanced monitoring
- Remote eSIM management
These solutions address various sizes of industrial deployment challenges, such as:
- Asset tracking: Uninterrupted global connectivity
- Remote health monitoring and IoT health care wearables: Resilient and reliable connectivity
- Digital signage: High usage, high performance
- Smart utilities: eSIM provisioning (RSP and bootstrap)
- Security and surveillance: Reliable high performance
Discover the benefits of flexible, future-proof connectivity for your IoT deployment. Connect with an IoT connectivity expert today.
Editor’s note: This blog was first published on 13 January 2023 and has since been updated.
