Understanding ESIM Technology for Enterprises
In today’s fast-paced remote and hybrid work environment, where millions of professionals are no longer tethered to the office, a strong, secure internet connection is the lifeblood of productivity. It’s no exaggeration to say that without it, getting anything done is an uphill battle.
After more than two decades of managing 400,000 SIMs for thousands of clients worldwide, it has been observed that 99% of companies put all their connectivity eggs in one basket by relying on a single wireless carrier.
Wireless carriers, however, offer just one network for connectivity. When that network crashes, a company’s growth stalls. As any seasoned captain in the United States Air Force will tell you, Murphy’s Law is alive and wellâif something can go wrong, it probably will.
In today’s high-stakes business landscape, where productivity is nearly impossible without a secure internet connection, companies need to plan for ways to protect their workforce from network interruptions and outages.
One way companies are looking to do this is with intelligent single eSIM technology.
Understanding eSIM Technology
Most people are familiar with the physical SIM card inside their smartphones, which is limited in its connectivity to a single network provider. If they go somewhere without coverage, they donât have connectivity.
When a business traveler arrives in a different country, they can roam on the international carrier in that country and pay the fees to do so.
Alternatively, they can insert a local carrier SIM card into their device and use that carrier without roaming fees, but they no longer have their old phone number to operate with until they reinstall their original SIM.
With eSIMs, users can download a local carrier profile on their eSIM and use the local carrier with their existing phone number without switching SIM cards, giving them lower-cost local access.
In short, a signal is sent over the air (wirelessly) and the network change is made. However, when users get back to their home country, they will need to go into their settings and switch their carrier profile back to their home country carrier.
The eSIM model allows enterprises to have multiple carrier profiles and coverage embedded on eSIMs for their teams.
Benefits of eSIM Technology for Enterprises
Device users have connectivity regardless of where they go in the world, without significant roaming costs. Since eSIMs are electronic, this can reduce plastic waste.
They also can offer expanded coverage. The latest smartphones include eSIMs already embedded. Other data OEMs are also following suit and adopting eSIM technology, which should lead to even broader adoption.
For example, Google, Samsung, and Apple have the use of eSIM technology in their devices. Other players are catching on, too.
In a bold move this July, Verizon unveiled a, joining forces with network operators worldwide. This move underscores the growing trend of single SIM technology adoption, allowing customers to manage multinational eSIM connectivity across regions.
Implementation and Considerations for Enterprises
Before enterprises jump on the bandwagon, they need to do their due diligence. First off, not all devices are supported by eSIM technology, and not all carriers offer it on all devices.
Enterprises should also research potential eSIM providers as they do not all offer the same level of sophistication. They should explore the unique benefits each one brings to the table.
For example, enterprises should ask service providers how many carriers they can provide access to use the largest number of networks. They should also ask about how they can assist the organization and users in adopting eSIM with their existing accounts and devices.
After completing the necessary due diligence, companies can use eSIM tech to streamline deployments globally by allowing their teams to switch networks and determine their best coverage options.
In terms of device management, organizations will need to manage self-service portals that oversee their mobile fleets and devices (i.e., subscriptions, renewals, updates).
This process can be streamlined by creating a digital eSIM QR code, which also helps ensure cybersecurity by allowing the technology to work within the company’s existing security protocols.
Conclusion
eSIM technology presents a significant opportunity for enterprises to enhance their connectivity and global operations. By understanding the technology, its benefits, and the implementation considerations, enterprises can make informed decisions to leverage eSIMs effectively.
Source: forbes
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