What is an embedded SIM card (eSIM)?
What is an embedded SIM card (eSIM)?
Embedded SIM (eSIM), short for Embedded Subscriber Identity Module, is an IoT connectivity solution that integrates the functions of a traditional SIM card into the device's internal chip or module and enables carrier configuration and management through Over-the-Air (OTA) provisioning. It is suitable for scenarios like outdoor solar-powered security cameras, smart utility meters, and industrial IoT sensors (high space/reliability/remote needs) and maintenance.
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Use Cases for Solar Security Cameras & Industrial IoT Devices
Use Cases for Solar Security Cameras & Industrial IoT Devices
How is it different from traditional plug-in SIM cards?
How is it different from traditional plug-in SIM cards?
Embedded IoT SIM (eSIM)
Embedded IoT SIM (eSIM)
Form and Installation
Directly soldered to the motherboard/module, no physical card slot
Directly soldered to the motherboard/module, no physical card slot
Network Configuration
Remotely configure an exclusive APN and enable quick switching between network links of different operators
Remotely configure an exclusive APN and enable quick switching between network links of different operators
Operational Convenience
Remote management is available directly via the enterprise management platform
Remote management is available directly via the enterprise management platform
Physical Reliability
Better resistance to vibration/dust/moisture (ideal for embedded SIM cards in agricultural IoT sensors)
Better resistance to vibration/dust/moisture (ideal for embedded SIM cards in agricultural IoT sensors)
Risk of poor contact and wear *
Risk of poor contact and wear *
On-site personnel may be required for SIM suspension and replacement, resulting in high operational costs *
On-site personnel may be required for SIM suspension and replacement, resulting in high operational costs *
Default access to the operator's public network, manual APN configuration is required *
Default access to the operator's public network, manual APN configuration is required *
Removable physical card, requiring a card slot *
Removable physical card, requiring a card slot *
Plug-in IoT SIM *
Plug-in IoT SIM *
How does an embedded SIM card work?
How does an embedded SIM card work?
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Hardware Carrier:
Hardware Carrier:
Card Provisioning Process:
Card Provisioning Process:
Network Access:
Network Access:
Remote Management:
Remote Management:
Uses eSIM-supported secure chips or UICC (Universal Integrated Circuit Card) with built-in keys and certificates.
Carriers write IMSI, AKA keys, ICCID, etc., into the provisioning network element, deliver them to the eSIM via OTA, and complete verification with the HLR/base station side.
The device registers with the base station using the parameters in the card, accesses the network after mutual authentication, and data is transmitted encrypted over the air interface.
Carrier platforms can remotely monitor the card, issue policies, freeze/activate, and diagnose it.
Advantages of embedded IoT cards
Advantages of embedded IoT cards
Outstanding anti-interference capability
Outstanding anti-interference capability
The soldered and integrated design avoids poor contact, suitable for industrial and in-vehicle IoT devices & high-altitude base stations (embedded SIM cards resist harsh conditions), reducing the risk of network disconnection
Extended device lifespan
Extended device lifespan
No physical card reduces mechanical wear and foreign object intrusion, indirectly prolonging the service time of devices
Its volume is only a fraction of that of a traditional SIM card, adapting to the compact design of small devices like smart watches
Saves internal space
Saves internal space
Convenient remote large-scale management
Convenient remote large-scale management
OTA technology enables remote configuration, reducing operation and maintenance costs for large-scale devices such as smart city infrastructure (e.g., street light sensors) using embedded SIM cards
Flexibly copes with network switching
Flexibly copes with network switching
Remotely completes carrier replacement, 4G to 5G upgrades, etc., suitable for hard-to-reach devices like high-altitude base stations
Reliable physical tamper resistance
Reliable physical tamper resistance
Integrated with the motherboard, reducing the risk of malicious replacement and enhancing security for financial terminals, etc.
Improved encryption and authentication mechanisms
Improved encryption and authentication mechanisms
Equipped with high-security chips, dynamically updates keys, and supports remote freezing in case of abnormalities
Compatible with emerging technologies
Compatible with emerging technologies
Low latency and high stability adapt to 5G, autonomous driving, etc., ensuring real-time transmission
