What is an embedded SIM card?
What is an embedded SIM card?
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 with high requirements for space, reliability, and remote operation and maintenance.
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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
Carrier profiles are remotely written via OTA
Carrier profiles are remotely written via OTA
Operation, Maintenance and Management
Remote batch configuration, upgrade, freeze/activation
Remote batch configuration, upgrade, freeze/activation
Physical Reliability
Better resistance to vibration, dust, and moisture
Better resistance to vibration, dust, and moisture
Security Aspect
Cloud-based processes increase attack surface, but security is ensured based on secure chips/TEE
Cloud-based processes increase attack surface, but security is ensured based on secure chips/TEE
Mature hardware authentication, need to control risks in physical circulation *
Mature hardware authentication, need to control risks in physical circulation *
Risk of poor contact and wear *
Risk of poor contact and wear *
Mainly offline replacement, high cost for large-scale management *
Mainly offline replacement, high cost for large-scale management *
Requires physical card replacement, in-store service, or mail-in for replacement *
Requires physical card replacement, in-store service, or mail-in for replacement *
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 card work?
How does an embedded 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 complex environments such as industrial and in-vehicle scenarios, 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 meters
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
