The installed base of IoT devices with embedded SIM (eSIM) technology is poised to skyrocket, hitting a staggering 3.6 billion by 2030 from 1 billion in 2023, reveals Omdia.
Advancements Driving Growth
Advancements in eSIM technology, notably with the latest GSMA SGP.31/32 specifications, alongside the surge in cellular IoT, including 5G-based RedCap and “Massive IoT” modules, are fueling this remarkable 260% growth.
Understanding eSIM Technology
Incoming eSIM technology integrates a cellular-based subscriber identity module (SIM) into a device circuit board, combined with remote provisioning software. Over the years, SIM technology has evolved from its early forms to the current eSIM utilizing the MFF2 machine-form.
The Role of GSMA SGP.31/32 Standard
The new GSMA SGP.31/32 standard delineates the architecture and requirements for remote provisioning of carrier airtime on eSIM/eUICC-based devices. This standardization introduces the eIM (eSIM IoT Remote Manager) component, streamlining the deployment and management of eSIM-enabled IoT devices.
Market Adoption and Trends
Omdia underscores the imminent mass adoption of SGP.31/32-level eSIMs in enterprise IoT, driven by the convergence of improved technology and key trends such as 5G RedCap, 5G Massive IoT, and 4G LTE Cat-1bis modules. Enterprises are recognizing the benefits of eSIMs, from enhanced security to network reliability and cost management.
Industry Perspectives
John Canali, principal analyst for IoT at Omdia, emphasizes the evolving landscape, where eSIM technology empowers enterprises to provision over-the-air efficiently. Andrew Brown, practice lead for IoT at Omdia, lauds the significance of GSMA SGP.32 eSIM specification in bridging the gap between consumer and traditional IoT devices, foreseeing accelerated adoption across various industries.
Source: RCR Wireless
