Embedded SIM (eSIM) technology is gaining ground in the connected ‘things’ space, which requires subscriber identity modules (SIMs) to be remotely provisioned and tamper proof, and often miniaturised for IoT devices.
The rise of integrated SIM (iSIM) technology, where the SIM hardrware is not just glued into the fixings, but designed into the device’s permanent hardware array, will drive further scale and simplicity in the IoT space.
Germany based mobile security technology group G+D Mobile Security notes the automotive sector stands to benefit particularly from eSIM technology, with new generations of connected and autonomous vehicles requiring secure, robust, and provisionable SIM connectivity.
In a recent press release, which promotes nothing but the benefits of the technology in general (acknowledging G+D Mobile Security’s vested interest in the space), the Munich explains why eSIM is a key technology for the connected car.
Alois Kliner, head of G+D Mobile Security’s digital enterprise security division, says: “With eSIM technology, automobile manufacturers can not only meet the highest security and data protection standards and fulfill telecommunications legislation. It also enables them to improve the user experience, develop new business models through secure digital services and further strengthen trust in their brands.”
Below, it gives seven reasons, which need no additoonal commentary from us. Here they, are in full.
1 | Legal requirements
Since March 2018, the automatic emergency call system eCall, which requires eSIM, is mandatory for all new cars in the European Union. With ERA GLONASS, the Russian Federation is demanding very similar standards from 2020. Countries such as Brazil, China, Turkey, India and the United Arab Emirates have already enacted laws on telecommunications regulation or are currently preparing laws with specific local requirements. eSIM technology will play a key role in helping vehicle manufacturers react flexibly to changes in legislation and regulation.
2 | Optimal 5G support
The new 5G standard will give the autonomous connected car a major boost, as it offers special services for critical communication requirements. In order to arrive safely at destination without human intervention, autonomous vehicles will be provided with mobile connections with lowest latency times. According to forecasts by Machina Research, around half a billion connected vehicles will be on the roads by 2023. eSIM will play a crucial role for the management of this interconnection.
3 | Simplified logistics
The eSIM technology enables automobile manufacturers to install the correct network profile directly ‘over the air’ in their target region, only after the cars have been delivered. In addition, it is ensured that the local legal requirements are met. This significantly simplifies the logistics processes for automobile manufacturers. With the increasing spread of 5G and connected autonomous cars, this aspect will become more and more important.
4 | Higher reliability
Conventional SIM cards, which have to be inserted into specific slots in the cars, are exposed to harsh environmental conditions. These include extreme temperatures, humidity, corrosion or vibrations caused by the engine and uneven routes. The SIM chips are designed for these environmental conditions and firmly integrated into the hardware. Therefore, they are much more reliable than plug-in SIMs.
5 | Secured connectivity
SIM chips offer the ability to store TLS certificates and thus establish TLS-encrypted connections to the outside world whether to other vehicles or to services in the cloud. Thus, they support the secure mutual authentication of cars and cloud services. Hence it can be avoided, that cyber criminals can take control of the car and endanger the safety of the driver and other road users.
6 | Improved user experience
Classic SIM cards only allow to use one mobile phone contract. On the contrary, configurable eSIM chips allow the alternating use of several mobile phone contracts of vehicle owners and service providers. This enables vehicle passengers to use various infotainment applications at the conditions of their mobile phone contract partners. This increases customer satisfaction and strengthens their loyalty to car manufacturers.
7 | Sustainable platform
The possibilities of the connected car are far from being exhausted. Its development has just started yet. For the future, numerous other services also fueled by 5G are to be expected, such as self-diagnosis, tailor-made car insurance, infotainment or mobile payment. The eSIM technology serves the connected car with a flexible platform to provide the necessary connectivity for any service.
