The widespread deployment of low-cost, low-power IoT devices, including smart meters, sensors, asset trackers, and smart labels, is revolutionising various industries. These devices are unlocking new use-cases, offering insights, and driving efficiencies. McKinsey’s estimation of the global economic value reaching up to $12.6 trillion underscores the potential. Bertrand Moussel, Chair of the Trusted Connectivity Alliance Board, delves into the significance of the GSMA’s newly released eSIM Specifications for IoT (SGP.31 and SGP.32) as a pivotal development.
As more emerging use-cases require trusted, reliable, and secure mobile connectivity, cellular technologies are increasingly being employed to connect IoT devices. In 2022, global cellular IoT connections saw a 27% annual growth, accounting for nearly 20% of all global IoT connections. This growth is set to continue, buoyed by the latest enhancements in 5G standards.
The accelerating deployment rates are driving a growing demand for eSIM technology, simplifying global connectivity and bolstering security. GSMA Intelligence reports that 83% of organisations deem eSIM crucial for successful future IoT deployments.
Advancements in eSIM for streamlined IoT connectivity
eSIM technology, backed by a mature, advanced infrastructure, ensures interoperability and security. GSMA’s established Remote SIM Provisioning Specifications for Consumer and M2M Devices guide the remote management of profiles.
However, the burgeoning IoT ecosystem presents unique challenges, particularly for devices constrained in bandwidth, user interface, and power. Existing GSMA Consumer and M2M Specifications for Remote SIM Provisioning are not optimal for such devices. For instance, network-constrained devices cannot support the M2M Specification’s requirement for SMS or HTTPS connections for profile management. Many IoT devices also lack a user interface necessary for profile downloads, as mandated by the Consumer Specification.
Another issue is the complex integration process between operators under the M2M Specification, which hinders profile switching. This rigidity is ill-suited for IoT scenarios, like an asset tracker in a shipping container that needs to connect to different operators across regions. This inflexibility necessitates multiple production lines to cater to different geographies, a costly and complex process.
GSMA’s eSIM specifications for IoT
In response, GSMA, in collaboration with industry stakeholders, developed the eSIM for IoT Specifications (SGP.31 and SGP.32). These new specifications incorporate proven elements of existing Consumer Specifications while introducing features specifically for IoT. Highlights include:
- eSIM IoT Remote Manager (eIM): A standardised remote provisioning tool for downloading and managing profiles on IoT devices, facilitating large-scale IoT deployments without needing direct consumer interaction.
- IoT Profile Assistant (IPA): Replacing the Consumer Specification’s Local Profile Assistant (LPA), the IPA enables remote eSIM management using the existing SM-DP+ platform infrastructure.
- Lightweight IoT minimal profile: The latest update in TCA’s Interoperable Profile Package Specification introduces a ‘lightweight’ IoT minimal profile, crucial for managing network-constrained IoT devices, allowing profile provisioning even with limited bandwidth.
Future of eSIM in IoT
The introduction of these dedicated standards for remotely managing IoT devices is expected to expedite the adoption of eSIM technology. Kaleido Intelligence predicts that by 2028, over half of the active eSIMs in IoT deployments will comply with the new specification.
As IoT deployments expand, TCA remains committed to collaborating with key industry players to further standardise and enhance eSIM technology and its infrastructure. This includes ongoing contributions to GSMA to guide and support the development of eSIM-related specifications and testing processes.
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