
May 16
Asaf Gigi | www.flolive.net
Read in a blog from the Sales Director at our partner floLIVE where he sets the scene by explaining the differences between eSIM vs iSIM by giving details on the development of eUICC technology and how it began as a brand-new technology, and how it’s developing in the market. iSIM is not tremendously different from eUICC. It is more of an iteration of the technology to have a multi-profile approach to connectivity within the SIM. iSIM (integrated SIM) is a form factor where the secure element is already embedded in the cellular module as part of the silicon. It leverages System-on-Chip (SoC) technology to eliminate the SIM from a separate chip entirely. The SoC with iSIM requires a SIM or eSIM operating system (OS) implemented on a Secure Enclave (SE) using the devices’ non-volatile memory, semiconductor technology that allows information to be retained even after power is lost. This is to meet the demand of lowering device size and improving power consumption in IoT because the need for additional SIM footprint has been removed. According to Kigen, iSIM is 98 percent smaller than eSIM (the form factor, not the eUICC technology). It also uses up to 70 percent less power.
Ideal iSIM Use Cases
Lower power consumption and reduced device size can benefit many use cases with IoT. A few include:
* Wearables: iSIM technology benefits wearable devices such as smartwatches, fitness trackers, and healthcare monitors. These devices often have limited space for components, making traditional SIM cards impractical. iSIMs allow manufacturers to integrate cellular connectivity seamlessly into wearable devices.
* Connected Cars: iSIM technology can be used in connected car applications for vehicle tracking, telematics, and remote diagnostics. iSIMs enable cars to connect to cellular networks without needing physical SIM cards, simplifying manufacturing and reducing hardware costs.
* Smart Home Devices: Smart home devices like security cameras, door locks, and thermostats can leverage iSIM technology for remote monitoring and control. iSIMs enable these devices to connect to cellular networks without requiring users to insert SIM cards manually, enhancing convenience and ease of use.
* Enterprise Solutions: iSIMs can be used in enterprise solutions such as asset tracking, fleet management, and industrial automation. These applications often require devices to connect to cellular networks reliably and securely, which iSIM technology facilitates.
* Consumer Electronics: iSIMs can be integrated into various consumer electronics products, including tablets, laptops, and portable hotspots, to provide seamless cellular connectivity without needing external SIM cards. This integration simplifies the user experience and enhances the portability of these devices.
eSIM vs iSIM: Minimal Differences
Regarding the technology itself, eSIM and iSIM both support a multi-profile approach to global connectivity. The true differences lie in the physical SIM and how that impacts the use cases for which eSIM and iSIM are being considered. A few factors to examine as you’re determining which form factor:
A regular UICC SIM is smaller than an eUICC SIM since the eUICC SIM must contain multiple profiles inside it, each with its own operating system. Downloading a full eUICC profile over the air demands a lot of bandwidth since profiles are large. This drains the battery, making it not always ideal for low-power applications. Because an eUICC SIM requires a larger footprint, thus more silicone, the cost will be higher. Data costs are also greater with an eUICC because of the usage needed for the OTA download. That does not mean that eUICC isn’t a powerful technology that is extremely useful in navigating the complexities of global connectivity.
iSIM isn’t perfect either. While iSIM can support various connectivity technologies, such as GSM, LTE, and potentially 5G, its compatibility depends on the chipset’s capabilities and the software stack that implements iSIM functionality. So, while iSIM has the potential to support a wide range of connectivity technologies, its specific compatibility may vary depending on the device and its implementation. iSIM happens to be a strong iteration on eUICC that serves certain applications well. Check out this webinar floLIVE did with Sony and Kigen for more details:

Partnering for eSIM vs iSIM for eSIM vs iSIM Success
The technology and chipset options are broad, and how they function depends on the use case and its requirements. That’s why it’s important that—no matter what technology you choose—you partner with an industry expert who offers SIM flexibility and global connectivity designed to suit your business case best.
CommsCloud has been partnering with floLIVE to cover Africa since 2018 and has developed fit-for-purpose IoT Solutions that work seamlessly and provide high degrees of uptime and resiliency.
CommsCloud IoT Connectivity Solutions | Empowering Your Business to Connect, Grow, and Thrive—Contact Us | +27 21 551 5526 or Get in Touch. Follow our journey across Africa with the social media links below.