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Managing Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity in one country is simple — doing so in multiple countries is not. Traditional data plans work well for consumers but create obstacles for global IoT deployments.
Multinational companies face several key challenges when deploying IoT-connected devices across countries, including:
- Roaming restrictions
- Carrier lock-in
- Network compatibility
- Price stability
The scale and number of devices compound these issues. A company might have had to manage two or three carriers in the past.
Depending on their deployment size, they may deal with multiple carriers, each with different service agreements. Markets where local carriers and regulators protect domestic infrastructure can be especially complicated.
To overcome these challenges, multinational companies with global IoT deployments must turn to advanced solutions like:
- Embedded SIM (eSIM) multinetwork eUICC technology
- Multiple International Subscriber Identity (Multi-IMSI) SIMs
Accelerate Your Global IoT Project’s Path to Success
Common Global Cellular IoT Connectivity Challenges
The average IoT deployment will last three to five years. During this time, devices may need to adapt to changes in network availability.
Companies should not need to send technicians to the field to update their devices. However, those unable to remotely switch and download local carrier profiles will need to physically replace SIM cards for each device in the field.
When a business sends a technician into the field, it loses money. For large fleets of devices, physically replacing SIM cards is neither cost-effective nor scalable.
Countries like India and Brazil have evolving restrictions on roaming. Regulators often mandate that IoT devices connect through local carriers. This makes long-term roaming-based deployments non-viable.
To protect their businesses, local carriers often increase access fees for devices that connect to their networks. When locked in with specific carriers, companies must accept the higher costs. Carrier lock-in decreases redundancy in case of carrier outages.
Companies must ensure their cellular connection remains current with developing technologies in order to future-proof their global IoT deployments. Accommodating shifts from legacy networks to newer standards may not be available across all regions. Failing to anticipate these transitions can lead to:
- Connectivity disruptions
- Stranded devices
- Costly hardware replacements
Problems around certifications and regulatory compliance also arise. Should an organization in the EU want to expand to the U.S., its devices may need new certifications. The device module must meet U.S. standards.
Solutions for Scalability and Future-Proofing: eSIMs and Multi-IMSI SIMs
eUICC-enabled SIMs and multi-IMSI technology streamline cellular connectivity with global IoT deployments. Together, they provide a comprehensive solution to global roaming challenges.
Multi-IMSI
A multi-IMSI SIM contains multiple international mobile subscriber identities. This allows an IoT device to connect to various mobile networks without the need to physically swap SIM cards.
The SIM switches between operator profiles. It utilizes roaming agreements of each associated MNO for improved coverage and compatibility, which lowers costs. Global roaming over a multi-IMSI SIM enhances redundancy.
IoT MVNOs with multi-IMSI functionality provide more advanced and adaptable solutions for long-term global IoT deployments. The right MVNO:
- Reduces costs
- Improves support for mission-critical services
- Enhances the response to changing network availability and regulations
eUICC
With eUICC-enabled SIMs (eSIMs), companies remotely switch connectivity providers without having to swap SIMs in the field. Businesses can use roaming profiles on eUICC cards to future-proof deployments and offer greater:
- Redundancy
- Flexibility
- Optimization
eUICC standardization simplifies device design and production. A single hardware configuration provides certification and deployment across multiple regions and carriers. This streamlines the certification process and saves money.
Global roaming IoT deployments use contracts that allow an MVNO to use MNO (i.e., IMSI sponsor) roaming agreements for international coverage. With eUICC technology, the reliance on an IMSI sponsor is limited, as an eSIM combines a native carrier profile with an additional roaming profile.
A connectivity profile is a predefined set of network and configuration settings. They dictate how a device connects to cellular or wireless networks. It’s commonly used in IoT to manage how SIMs and eSIMs behave on networks.
Telit Cinterion, Your Global Cellular IoT Connectivity Partner
Streamline connectivity for your global deployment by choosing Telit Cinterion. We interface with operators to deliver a fully integrated solution that includes:
- True global reach
- Resilient, always-on connectivity
- End-to-end IoT expertise
- Reliability and confidence
You’ll have access to providers worldwide. In addition, you can view your deployed devices in a single pane of glass within our IoT connectivity management platforms.
Telit Cinterion offers the entire value chain. We manage the challenges of large global deployments, offering IoT modules, connectivity plans and services, platforms, and custom solutions. Our reliable service is qualified to adapt to emerging cellular technologies.
Speak with our experts to learn how our global connectivity will support your IoT deployment.
