Why eUICC matters for Global IoT Connectivity
Back in the days when IoT was still known as M2M, it was relatively simple to connect devices globally. Thanks to roaming agreements, you could put a SIM card into a cellular modem, and the device could connect to a GSM or 3G network almost anywhere in the world. But we need to remember that roaming was never designed for IoT.
Nowadays, roaming will still be sufficient to connect IoT device globally in some cases. Thanks to EU standardization and roaming agreements between operators; the connectivity issue is solved in many countries. But in some countries, changing regulations mean that roaming won’t work. Large markets such as China, India, Brazil and the US still have regulations that mean connectivity can become non-compliant overnight – leaving you with a product that won’t work as promised.
Adding to the connectivity problem is the global landscape of network technologies. Today we have 2G, 3G, 4G as well as 5G networks being rolled out. And in recent years, network technology specifically designed for IoT (NB-IoT and LTE-M) has been and is being deployed in many places around the world. Some countries have decided to switch off the good old 2G and 3G networks, and some countries haven’t decided yet. This leave us with a widely dispersed connectivity landscape.
To solve the problem, you could take a chance and hope the network technology you choose will still be there in a year or so and focus on the markets where roaming hasn’t been regulated, yet. Or start to negotiate local connectivity contracts in the highly regulated markets and make sure the correct SIM card is assembled in the product that will be shipped to that country. It works, but it’s a bit complicated and time consuming.
Here’s where eUICC comes into the picture.
One SIM to rule them all
eUICC (Embedded Universal Integrated Circuit Card) is the software that lets the eSIM accommodate multiple SIM profiles and enabling it to be provisioned remotely – over-the-air (OTA). This lets you switch operator profiles without having to physically replace the SIM cards. It gives you the freedom to change your mind. For example, if your operator in one country can’t deliver the performance or price point you need. Or in a mobile use case such as asset tracking where you need multiple operators or multiple connectivity options.
It also enables the important possibility to get local connectivity with local profiles in the markets where roaming is not enough. Making sure that the risk of downtime is reduced as well as your stress levels and costs. Because single SKU management for global deployments is now within your reach, with only one eSIM that can be embedded and shipped wherever you want.
A new solution for Global IoT Connectivity
Easier global IoT deployments start with an eSIM empowered by eUICC technology, but you will still need the global ecosystem of partners and an IoT platform that actually lets you manage it all. To make is simple for you, we have developed a solution that will let you stay compliant and scale globally without the hassle of multiple partners or technical integrations, all from a single interface.
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