Trusted Connectivity Alliance (TCA) has released Version 3.4 of its eUICC Profile Package: Interoperable Format Technical Specification (Interoperable Profile Package Specification). This latest version includes major updates to support full alignment with 3GPP Release 18 to facilitate advanced 5G functionality and secure authentication in 5G network slicing, as well as enabling the remote management of eSIM profiles on low-power and network-constrained devices. Additional updates and clarifications to promote security and interoperability have also been made.
TCA’s Interoperable Profile Package Specification – which is used in every eSIM deployed in the field – standardises the format used for the remote loading of subscriptions onto eSIMs across deployed devices. This allows mobile operators to load interoperable connectivity profiles in an eSIM, regardless of the SIM vendor.
Key updates in Version 3.4 include:
- Full alignment with 3GPP Release 18: this includes support of Slice SIM (SSIM), allowing operators to utilise the proven security capabilities of eUICC/eSIM to authenticate subscribers and enable secure access to 5G network slices. This will help to enhance the security of 5G networks and protect subscriber privacy
- Support for GlobalPlatform’s standardised Secure Channel Protocol Amendment M: this enables remote application and file management on constrained IoT devices that could not previously be updated or patched due to the absence of SMS support. This addresses an immediate interoperability challenge by making it easier to remotely provision and manage eSIM profiles on constrained NarrowBand IoT (NB-IoT) devices
“Since it was first published 10 years ago, TCA’s Interoperable Profile Package Specification has played a foundational role in promoting trust, consistency and reliability across the eSIM ecosystem. These latest enhancements stand to further extend the capabilities and benefits of eSIM technology, bringing seamless connectivity and advanced security to new and established use-cases,” said Denis Praca, Chair of the TCA eUICC Working Group.
The publication of the new specification follows the release of the latest TCA eSIM market data, which showed that 2024 was a landmark year of growth across the eSIM ecosystem. eSIM shipment volumes collectively reported by TCA members in 2024 surpassed half a billion units, increasing 35% year-on-year to reach 503 million. TCA also estimates that the total available market for eSIM was 514 million units. The growing availability of eSIM-enabled devices was matched by increasing consumer adoption, with consumer eSIM profile downloads rising by 56%.
“As the eSIM ecosystem continues to expand, TCA is committed to shaping the continued standardisation and enhancement of eSIM technology in close collaboration with leading industry stakeholders,” added Bertrand Moussel, Chair of the TCA Board.
TCA has also published Version 3.3.1.2 of eUICC Profile Package: Interoperable Format Test Specification, which provides a globally standardised means of testing products to ensure the eSIM profile is correctly loaded.
Version 3.3.1.2 is a GlobalPlatform-approved test suite, which is part of the GSMA Consumer and IoT eSIM compliance programmes and referenced in GSMA’s eSIM Test Specifications (SGP.23 and SGP.33) – the dedicated, globally-backed remote SIM test specifications for Consumer and IoT. Work is currently ongoing in TCA to develop the test specification for Interoperable Profile Package Technical Specification v3.4.
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