An eSIM or embedded SIM is a form of SIM card that is embedded directly into a device as software installed onto a eUICC chip. First released in March 2016, eSIM is a global specification by the GSMA that enables remote SIM provisioning whereby end-users can change mobile network operators without the need to physically swap a SIM from the device. eSIM technology has been referred to as a disruptive innovation for the mobile telephony industry.
Most flagship devices manufactured since 2018 that are not SIM locked support eSIM technology. In addition to mobile phones, tablet computers, and smartwatches, eSIM technology is used for Internet of things applications such as connected cars (smart rearview mirrors, on-board diagnostics, vehicle Wi-Fi hotspots), artificial intelligence translators, MiFi devices, smart earphones, smart metering, GPS tracking units, database transaction units, bicycle-sharing systems, advertising players, closed-circuit television cameras and the list goes on and on.
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The eUICC chip used to host the eSIM is installed via surface-mount technology at the factory and uses the same electrical interface as a physical SIM as defined in ISO/IEC 7816 but with a small format of 6 mm × 5 mm. Once an eSIM carrier profile has been installed on an eUICC, it operates in the same way as a physical SIM, complete with a unique ICCID and network authentication key generated by the carrier. If the eSIM is eUICC-compatible, it can be re-programmed with new SIM information. Otherwise, the eSIM is programmed with its ICCID/IMSI and other information at the time it is manufactured, and cannot be changed. One common physical form factor of an eUICC chip is commonly designated MFF2. All eUICCs are programmed with a permanent eUICC ID (EID) at the factory, which is used by the provisioning service to associate the device with an existing carrier subscription as well as to negotiate a secure channel for programming.
The GSMA maintains two different versions of the eSIM standard:
eSIM for IoT
The eSIM IoT specification is designed to be used in IoT devices that are network-constrained or user interface constrained. This specification is based on the Consumer eSIM specification with a few notable differences.
eSIM for M2M
The GSMA’s Embedded SIM Specification provides a single, de-facto standard mechanism for the remote provisioning and management of machine to machine (M2M) connections, allowing the “over the air” provisioning of an initial operator subscription, and the subsequent change of subscription from one operator to another. GSMA Embedded SIM is a vital enabler for Machine to Machine (M2M) connections including the simple and seamless mobile connection of all types of connected machines.
Conclusion
eSIM is slowly gaining traction with top phone brands and should make it easier to switch from one carrier to another—or to add a second line to your phone without heading to a carrier store.
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