SoftBank working on eSIM platform for IoT
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SoftBank is developing an embedded subscriber identity module (eSIM) platform as part of its efforts to promote Internet of Things (IoT) solutions.
The platform, which is scheduled to start operating in 2017, enables remote eSIM provisioning by connecting to carrier communication networks with the required profiles.
When selling vehicles and other items embedded with machine-to-machine (M2M) equipment to markets abroad, until now it was necessary to prepare dedicated SIM cards with the necessary profiles to connect to the respective communication networks of overseas carriers.
With eSIMs integrated into IoT products and M2M equipment, and by using the eSIM Platform, corporate customers will be able to remotely provision eSIMs with the profiles required for connecting to various carrier networks.
For tablets, wearables and other consumer devices equipped with eSIMs, the eSIM Platform will also enable the remote provisioning of pre-registered contract information and other types of information, in addition to the necessary profiles for network connection.
Questions & Answers
Q.When is SoftBank's new eSIM platform expected to become operational?
When is SoftBank's new eSIM platform expected to become operational?
The embedded subscriber identity module (eSIM) platform, which SoftBank is developing to promote IoT solutions, is scheduled to start operating in 2017. This will allow for remote eSIM provisioning by connecting to carrier networks.
Q.How will the eSIM platform change the process for companies selling M2M equipment abroad?
How will the eSIM platform change the process for companies selling M2M equipment abroad?
Previously, companies needed to prepare dedicated SIM cards with profiles for overseas carriers when selling M2M equipment abroad. With the eSIM Platform, they can remotely provision eSIMs integrated into IoT products and M2M equipment.
Q.What functionality does the eSIM platform offer for consumer devices like tablets and wearables?
What functionality does the eSIM platform offer for consumer devices like tablets and wearables?
For consumer devices equipped with eSIMs, the platform will enable the remote provisioning of pre-registered contract information. It will also provide other types of information, in addition to the necessary profiles for network connection.
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