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Discovering the OEM Success for IoT eSIM Devices with SGP.32
Bee Hayes-Thakore In our recent webinar for device makers and MVNOs, we explored the opportunities and challenges of certifying IoT devices under the new GSMA SGP.32 eSIM standard. This discussion brought together industry experts, including Kigen and the wider ecosystem, to share insights into how device makers can navigate certification efficiently and how MVNOs can better support them.
Here’s what we learned:
Why SGP.32 Matters for Device Makers and MVNOs
One of the biggest takeaways from the webinar was how SGP.32 enhances the consumer eSIM standard to fit the specific needs of memory- and network-constrained IoT devices (such as LTE-M and NB-IoT) and that the benefits extend to higher bandwidth devices as well, as summarized by Saïd Gharout, Head of Standards at Kigen and Chair of the eSIM Working Group at GSMA.
Recapping the benefits of SGP.32 standard for IoT eSIMs management:
- Interoperability – Devices can now receive secure profile activation from any provider, making remote server swaps much simpler.
- Adaptation for constrained networks – The standard removes barriers for LPWAN devices, eliminating SMS dependencies for provisioning.
- Simpler profile download architecture – Introducing the eIM (eSIM IoT Remote Manager) allows for flexible and secure profile operations (pull, push, direct/indirect downloads).
- Easy eIM swapping – With standardized eIM change, addition, and deletion, managing connectivity across devices becomes much easier.
The Readiness of SGP.32 Certification
A key highlight from the discussion was that SGP.32 test specification and compliance guidance are now available, and test specifications are available. Kigen is leading the way with the world’s first GSMA-compliant eIM and the first GSMA SAS-SM certified site with eIM. This provides carriers that the eIM also adheres to the same stringent security protocols when handling the new profile routing architecture.
The demand from enterprises for the new standard is evident, as presented by Loic Bonvarlet, SVP of Solutions and Marketing at Kigen. Over 40 Kigen customers in six IoT application sectors, with thousands of operations, showcase how businesses are actively trialing these IoT features before moving to full-scale production.
iMETRIK’s Experience
One of the most insightful moments in the webinar came from iMETRIK, a telematics solutions provider. CEO Guy Chevrette shared his perspective on the demand for flexibility in eSIM deployments. His candid discussion highlighted the growing need for dynamic connectivity solutions that can adapt to evolving IoT requirements.
Understanding the Role of IoT Profile Assistant (IPA)
Another crucial learning was about the IoT Profile Assistant (IPA), which manages communication between the eUICC and the eIM. The discussion covered the two options available to device makers:
- IPAd (device-based IPA) – Runs on the device’s rich OS, supporting non-cellular remote SIM provisioning (RSP). However, certification responsibility lies with the device maker.
- IPAe (embedded in eUICC) – Integrated within the eUICC, reducing complexity. IPAe follows SGP.32 certification, easing compliance for device makers.
Choosing Between IPAd and IPAe for Certification
A major decision for IoT device makers is whether to use IPAd or IPAe. The discussion revealed that choosing IPAe simplifies certification since it is already pre-certified within the eUICC. IPAd, on the other hand, requires separate certification efforts since it resides in a non-secure OS.
SGP.32 Enables Generic SKUs for Scalable Deployments
Device makers often found themselves lost in the maze of managing network connectivity, regional compliance, and the operational challenge of creating multiple Stock Keeping Units (SKUs) for each soldered device’s pre-determined destination network.
Another key insight was how SGP.32 supports the transition to generic SKUs, allowing manufacturers to manage different product variations more efficiently. By adopting the new standard, OEMs can standardize operations while still ensuring flexible connectivity provisioning. Kigen is actively driving these initiatives to support easier compliance and product development.
Kigen’s Testing and Interoperability Initiatives
One of the biggest concerns in IoT deployments is ensuring seamless network interoperability. The webinar covered how Kigen’s eSIM OS has been tested with over 250+ network profiles, offering robust compatibility across MVNOs and MNOs. Additionally, our Secure with Kigen program provides access to 15+ leading eSIM IoT modules and evaluation kits (EVKs), helping device makers test and integrate SGP.32 eSIM-ready solutions more efficiently.
Final Takeaways: A Bright Future for IoT eSIM Certification
With its simplified certification pathways, enhanced security, and flexible architecture, this standard will shape the next wave of IoT device certification.
For MVNOs, this means preparing for the increasing demands of device makers who want smoother certification and SGP.32-compliant connectivity options. For OEMs, the time to act is now—leveraging Kigen’s expertise and solutions will ensure faster certification and seamless integration.
If you missed our webinar, watch now our recording of the latest webinar and find out a new way to connect device rollouts.
Stay tuned for more insights as we continue supporting device makers and connectivity providers in the evolving eSIM IoT landscape.
