Any breakthrough in technology, no matter how recent or novel its genesis, ushers in a wave of fresh possibilities. There was an immediate requirement for clever cellular technology with the introduction of IoT and the proliferation of IoT devices. With e-SIM, the issue of a clever cellular network was fixed. SIM cards, which allow mobile devices like cellphones, tablets, etc. to communicate with cellular networks, are common knowledge. When compared to traditional SIM cards, which are inserted into smartphones and other devices through a dedicated SIM card slot, an eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a tiny computer chip that is permanently embedded within the device itself.
SIM cards are expensive, insecure, and limiting when it comes to deploying Internet of Things apps.Here, eSIMs come to the aid with all the advanced features we’ll be discussing in the next section of the article.eSIM technology has, without a doubt, paved the way for novel mobile applications. Manufacturers, service providers, and customers all stand to gain from the eSIM’s efforts to expand connectivity choices. eSIM options are currently utilized in mobile devices, computers, and IoT gadgets.
The GSMA believes there will be 25.2% more connected gadgets in use by 2025.Many Internet of Things (IoT) devices stand to gain from the advent of 5G and the quickly expanding network speeds and capacity. Moreover, 78% of respondents use eSIMs or plan to use them in the near future, according to the new report conducted by Beecham Research and sponsored by Sierra Wireless, the worldwide leader in IoT solutions.
How is e-SIM Technology different from Traditional SIM cards?
IoT eSIM cards are more robust and resistant to environmental factors than the standard SIM cards currently in use.The continual link between eSIM and the cloud guarantees a steady stream of information. Unlike traditional SIM cards, which can only hold the subscription data for a single network provider, eSIM technology allows users to switch carriers simply by adjusting the settings on their device, without needing to swap out the SIM card.
When compared to physical SIM devices, eSIM takes up much less space. Because there is no need for a SIM card tray, the gadget can be made smaller. IoT devices, exercise trackers, and smartwatches all benefit from using e-SIM.Using an eSIM also saves money compared to traditional SIM devices.
Why eSIM technology is the future of IoT Devices?
eSIM enables smooth carrier switching, even in situations where a constant connection is critical. This is helpful for transient Internet of Things gadgets and other applications of the Internet of Things.
Durability is another important aspect of the e-SIM IoT can be implemented because of. Small sensors may have to be installed in harsh circumstances and confined spaces for IoT networks to function. In this context, eSIM is crucial.The eSIM is embedded within the device and is shielded by the device’s casing, ensuring its longevity and resilience.
When coupled with an appropriate IoT data plan, eSIM allows users to safeguard their IoT devices from a wide range of cyberthreats. The security of Internet of Things devices is of paramount importance for IoT devices that monitor or transmit private information.Since e-SIMs are even smaller than nano-SIM cards, they don’t take up as much room in IoT gadgets, which means more room for improvements.By using an embedded chip in place of a SIM card, Internet of Things makers gain greater freedom in their work. Overall, an e-SIM’s long lifespan, online provisioning, seamless switching between networks, etc., add trustworthiness and adaptability to an Internet of Things device.
IoT Sectors where eSIM Technology is playing a Vital Role
1. Smart Vehicles
In addition to facilitating emergency call systems, car connectivity enables a wide variety of useful applications, including climate control, alternative route navigation, vehicle tracking help, speed and fuel alerts, and more. Users have more options for using voice and internet services when they employ e-SIM. Each electronic subscriber identity module (eSIM) is tied to a specific vehicle, making it possible to encrypt communications and guarantee safe worldwide connectivity for advanced vehicle infrastructure.
2. Agriculture
Problems with cultivable land, climate, water, improper use of fertilizers, unpredictability of resource availability, improper use of resources, etc. all present difficulties for the agricultural industry. Precision agriculture is a methodology that helps farmers surmount these difficulties by constantly keeping an eye on their crops and their predictive models.
The sensors are useful for identifying the kinds of crops grown in a given environment. When sensors-equipped Internet of Things (IoT) devices are linked to eSIMs operating in Machine-to-Machine (M2M) mode, the resulting precise data can assist farmers in optimizing crop yields.
3. Energy Management
The Internet of Things has many uses in the electricity sector, including smart metering. Smart meters can automate service and network maintenance, cutting down on labor expenses and facilitating cost savings elsewhere. Data from these smart meters is regularly gathered and transmitted to the IoT cloud platform in accordance with established protocols. Some of the most notable benefits of smart metering include remote reading, retrofitting, automated billing, and predictive maintenance.
4. Asset Tracking and Tracing
Manufacturers of industrial machinery, motor vehicles, and building tools must conduct international business and ship their wares to customers all over the world. Shipping them via traditional cellular network setup presents many difficulties. Without having to think about deployment, e-SIIM solutions allow worldwide manufacturers to use a single integrated module for all connected devices. The use of eSIM has been shown to improve efficiency, network performance, and management. Maintaining data security, eSIM will alert the logistics manager if the assets are lost or damaged or if they travel to an area with spotty service.
What’s Holding Back the eSIM Technology?
It’s essential to recognize the factors that are holding back the widespread adoption of eSIM technology despite the undeniable advantages of eSIM technology for IoT devices.
Despite the availability of e-SIM technology, its widespread adoption remains elusive. Given the novelty of the technology, widespread adoption may take some time. Users’ complaints about the system’s intricacy are at the root of their reluctance. Many obstacles must be overcome before e-SIM technology can be widely used in the Internet of Things.
Even though not all available IoT devices have eSIM support at this time, it is clear that eSIM is the best choice for IoT, and its use is only expected to increase in the near future.