The concept of an “embedded SIM”, or “eSIM” or “Virtual SIM” card for mobile devices has been around for a few years now, but is still new, as even the terminology is still unclear. Apple filed the first degree ευρεσιτεχνίας για την version of the “Virtual SIM” or “Apple SIM,” in 2011 and has reportedly been designing it ever since.
The idea behind an eSIM is an embedded chip inside the device instead of a removable card. This will allow users to avoid being trapped in one packet mobile, or switch providers without having to unlock or buy new devices.
The long-term goal is to create a standard eSIM that will bring extra comfort, cost savings, and security to consumers and companies using mobile devices.
Both Apple and Samsung are reportedly collaborating with GSMA, the association representing mobile operators around the world, along with selected international networks, to make eSIM a reality according to VB.
Of course, it is very likely that they will face resistance from some telephony providers, as consumers will no longer need to buy their phones directly from them.
Consumers, however, are tired of contracts, and hardware makers are tired of facing market barriers that limit them on a global scale.
But let's look at the benefits of adopting eSIM:
Ease: The phones will be thinner and lighter. Consumers will be able to easily switch mobile providers. In addition, they may have more than one phone number available. For companies (corporate packages), it will eliminate the need to purchase additional devices.
Cost saving: The old pricing methods will no longer exist and the long-term contracts, which have already begun to disappear, will no longer exist. So consumers will be able to change provider at any time. This can be done simply by developing one software which will automatically choose to switch to another network depending on how fast and how cheap it is.
Travel: Consumers should no longer buy a local SIM card every time they change, as eSIM could offer a much simpler activation process. Roaming charges could be avoided, as an eSIM will be able to detect that the user is in another country and will automatically switch networks. This will also make it easier for companies whose workers spend a lot of time traveling internationally.
Security: Since SIM cards will stop being a piece of plastic, there will be no longer the threat of device theft. For companies, the eSIM card will contain additional security information that could be used to authenticate the user's equipment on a cellular network. This will make it easier to locate lost or stolen devices.
With all these additional advantages that an eSIM provides, it probably won't be long before it appears in future devices. Since Apple filed the patent first, it is likely that the first devices with integrated cards will come from company.
