GSMA Releases eSIM Specification To Support Wearable Devices

The GSMA today released the eSIM specification which will allow consumers to remotely activate the SIM embedded in a device such as a smart watch, fitness band or tablet. This new eSIM will enable consumers to add a new generation of devices to a mobile subscription and connect them securely to a mobile network.

Mobile network operators, mobile device manufacturers and SIM vendors have worked closely together through the GSMA initiative to deliver a specification that will allow consumers to easily activate the SIM embedded in a range of devices with a subscription from a mobile network operator of their choice. The initiative does not aim to replace all SIM cards in the field, but is instead designed to help users connect multiple devices through the same subscription and will help mobile device manufacturers to develop a new range of smaller, lighter mobile-connected devices that are better suited for wearable technology applications.

Consumers will benefit from the specification in the following ways:

• Connect companion devices that will operate independently of a smartphone, with their own subscriptions.
• Experience a range of new, lighter mobile connected companion devices.
• Enjoy securely connected mobile devices with the reassurance of the privacy of their personal data guaranteed by the quality of service delivered by mobile operators and the SIM.

All leading mobile operators, SIM and chipset vendors, telecom equipment providers, and device manufacturers including Microsoft are backing this eSIM specs. So, don’t be surprised if the next generation Surface devices are LTE enabled without any SIM card slot.