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 patent for the 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 the users avoid being locked into a mobile phone package, 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.
Apple and the Samsung are reportedly working with the GSMA, the association representing mobile phone operators around the world, along with select 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: Old pricing methods will no longer exist and long-term contracts, which have already begun to disappear, will not exist. Thus consumers will be able to change provider at any time. This can be done simply by developing a software that automatically selects the 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 cease to be one piece plastic, there will no longer be the threat of device theft. For companies, the eSIM card will contain additional security information that could be used to verify the authenticity of a user's equipment on a cellular network. This will make it easier to locate lost or stolen devices.
With all these additional benefits provided by an eSIM, it is probably not long before it appears in future devices. As Apple first filed the patent, probably the first devices with built-in cards will come from the company.
