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What is iSIM (integrated SIM) and how does it benefit IoT devices?
Charlie Harrisson An Introduction to SIM
iSIM (integrated SIM) is a new generation of SIM technology that incorporates the SIM functionality directly into the device’s central processor rather than as a separate physical card or an eSIM module. This innovation allows devices to connect to cellular networks without needing a removable SIM card or a soldered eSIM. It can be incorporated into IoT products at the point of manufacture, allowing a single variant to be used in multiple markets.
iSIM technology integrates SIM functions on-chip and supports cellular connectivity, including LTE-M and NB-IoT for IoT devices. An important feature is that it enables hardware-backed security through dedicated physical circuits and can be remotely updated over the air using remote SIM provisioning (RSP).
iSIM poised for growth
The GSMA specifications simplify and outline IFPP (In-factory Profile Provisioning) capabilities, allowing iSIM profiles to be uploaded to a device during production. IFPP allows manufacturers to ship devices to end users with cellular connectivity pre-configured to the desired cellular network, simplifying the supply chain and production processes.
Due to this increased convenience, Juniper research predicts that the number of iSIM connections will rise to 210 million globally by 2028. It identified use cases such as smart energy meters and remote logistics as being primed for immediate adoption, owing to requirements for power-conscious and small-form-factor devices.
What is an iSIM (integrated SIM)?
The iSIM, short for Integrated SIM, is also known as the Integrated Universal Integrated Circuit Card (iUICC). It is in a dedicated system-on-chip (SoC) area and protected by a tamper-resistant element (TRE). Unlike the eSIM, the iSIM is not soldered onto the device’s circuit board.
Like eSIM, iSIM allows network carriers to preinstall or remotely provision operator network profiles on the IoT device without needing a physical SIM card. The iSIM is positioned in a secure area on the system on chip (SoC), safeguarded by a tamper-resistant element (TRE), rather than soldered onto the device’s circuit board.
IoT manufacturers and OEMs preload or remotely provision secure network profiles on a user’s device to make it connectivity by default. These profiles also comply with rigorous global security standards established by regulatory bodies, increasing their international credibility. As a result, sensor data is reliable and can be trusted.
What are the benefits of iSIM technology?
1. Compact size
Its sleek, compact size integrates the MCU, radio, and iSIM OS into a single module; in other words, iSIM reduces the cost of materials from three components to one. Consequently, the iSIM card is notably smaller than the eSIM, with dimensions measuring a fraction of a square millimeter, and it consumes up to 70% less power than a traditional SIM card. This provides opportunities for IoT device manufacturers to develop smaller, more compact devices such as smart labels and smartwatches.
2. Enhanced security
SIM information is saved directly into the device’s central processor, giving it a zero-compromise approach against the risk of tempering, theft, or unauthorized removal. This provides a higher level of physical security. Because the SIM is part of the chipset, it becomes harder for attackers to manipulate the network credentials.
The Tamper Resistant Element (TRE) is hardened silicon with cryptographic functionality recognized by the Trusted Connectivity Alliance. The reduced number of components also minimizes the device’s overall attack surface.
Innovative IoT products thrive on iSIM technology
As a vast proportion of IoT is implemented to derive value out of data from physical assets, iSIM’s robust security foundations enhance data security when used as a Root of Trust for handling sensitive data. iSIM is not always to be used with IoT SAFE. Still, it is worth noting that there are advantages to using the GSMA’s IoT SAFE (IoT SIM Applet for Secure End-2-End Communication), which can support the entire secure chip-to-cloud IoT infrastructure.
Furthermore, the technology can authenticate and verify connectivity and application credentials for data exchanged with any cloud over any cellular network by any device. The secure SIM technology is integrated with the device’s identity, establishing trust in the securely connected device to the cellular network and its communicated data, which can be monetized.
3. Greater performance and up to 70% less power
iSIM technology represents a significant advancement in efficiency, offering improvements in both power consumption and cost. It can be configured to minimize standby power consumption by up to 70%, which is well–suited for devices that must operate on one battery. Additionally, the simplified design and reduced components of iSIM result in significant cost savings for OEMs in manufacturing and logistics.
4. Compatibility
The iSIM is compatible with 3G, 4G, and 5G networks and is not tied to specific network requirements. The GSMA, ETSI, and other global organizations, including 3GPP, have standardized its specifications. iSIM-enabled IoT devices can switch over the air (OTA) between multiple networks based on location, cost, or preference, ensuring continuous coverage of IoT systems.
5. Reduced time-to-market
iSIMs streamline the initial negotiation and acquisition of individual physical SIM contracts, resulting in quicker time to market.
6. Lower lifetime spend
According to Transforma Insights, iSIM Technology is estimated to deliver a 13% overall Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) benefit when modeled across 30 different cellular IoT use cases compared to plastic removable SIMs. This cost assessment includes direct costs, such as component subscription management, and indirect costs, which include security, compliance, and logistics.
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Why choose iSIM technology?
One key advantage of iSIM is its tiny form factor and ability to integrate secure identity into IoT devices. The technology is ideal for low-cost asset tracking devices, such as smartwatches and logistics trackers, to monitor goods such as medical supplies in transit. The small form factor and low power consumption are important factors when choosing iSIM. A further reason is its ability to support subscriptions for cloud-based applications, paving the way for innovative IoT applications.
Innovative IoT products thrive on iSIM technology
iSIM facilitates network authentication and application security for device data, offering valuable innovation opportunities for OEMs to develop more compact and energy-efficient connected devices.
Smart labels:
Smart labels have a low-power connectivity module, an iSIM chip, and a battery that can keep them operational for almost a year. Provides enhanced visibility for transport and logistics applications, assisting businesses in tracking the location and condition of products shipped globally.
Wearables:
Miniaturization enables seamless connectivity into wearable devices like smartwatches and healthcare monitoring devices.
Smart metering:
Module manufacturers can confidently produce products with an empty embedded iSIM. Like SIM manufacturers, they can offer customization services by loading profiles onto specific module batches during manufacturing. This robust approach effectively alleviates manufacturing burdens for metering companies.
Transport:
Smart city transport and micro-mobility providers can leverage usage patterns with IoT data. Cellular asset tracking technology with iSIM delivers real-time data on the state, condition, and location of e-bikes, scooters, car sharing, and other electric vehicles to help deploy them where needed while supporting sustainability
Make the most of your connected product with iSIM technology.
In conclusion, MNOs and OEMs can deploy and provision devices securely with iSIM on almost any cellular network, from 3G to 5G, anywhere. iSIM technology enables optimized yet differentiated IoT chipsets for broader use cases, enabled by smaller device sizes, lower power, and recognized cutting-edge security. Tighter integration between processing, wireless radio, and encryption reduces the risk of unauthorized access to sensor data and lifecycle costs.
Want to learn more about iSIM and the next generation of IoT
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