- What is IoT eUICC
- Benefits of IoT eUICC
- eUICC vs. mobile eSIM
- Common applications
- eUICC architecture & components
- GSMA standards & compliance
- Security assurance & best practices
- eUICC vs. eSIM vs. iSIM
- Implementation & lifecycle management
- Regulatory & legal considerations
- Market trends & future outlook
- Challenges & mitigation strategies
- Cellhire’s eUICC solution
What is IoT eUICC?
The term eUICC refers to an Embedded Universal Integrated Circuit Card, also known as an embedded SIM or an IoT eSIM. It is a technology in the field of Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) cards designed to be permanently integrated into a device instead of being easily replaceable like traditional SIM cards. The eUICC technology provides numerous advantages and features that enhance the flexibility and convenience of mobile communication devices.
eUICC or IoT eSIMs differ significantly from traditional mobile eSIMs which are primarily associated with consumer mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. While both types of eSIMs share the fundamental concept of replacing physical SIM cards with embedded, programmable chips, their functionalities and intended applications vary considerably.
In the realm of IoT and M2M communications, eUICCs play a crucial role by enabling seamless connectivity for a wide array of devices like smart meters, connected cars, industrial sensors, and more.
Benefits of IoT eUICC
eUICC enables global connectivity for IoT and M2M devices
IoT eUICC-enabled devices, with the right data plan, can connect to various mobile networks around the world. For example, at Cellhire, we have permanent roaming agreements in 191 countries and on over 430 networks. eUICC-enabled devices can also be remotely provisioned so regardless of where your equipment is, you are in complete control of its connectivity.
eUICC increases flexibility and scalability
The embedded Universal Integrated Circuit Card (eUICC) technology allows for seamless remote updates and changes of subscription profiles in devices, providing greater flexibility to adapt to changing network conditions and user requirements. This advanced capability not only enables scalability but also future-proofs IoT deployments.
eUICC reduces operational costs
One of the benefits of eUICC-enabled devices is that they can be provisioned remotely, which can lead to reduced or eliminated costs. Unlike traditional SIM cards that require physical interaction to make changes, eUICC-enabled devices can be switched over the air, which eliminates the need for any physical intervention.
eUICC vs. Mobile eSIM
There are two types of SIM technology: Mobile eSIM and eUICC. Although they are related, they have different applications and functions. The eSIM is a digital SIM card that can either be embedded in a device or downloaded and activated on compatible devices. It allows users to remotely activate cellular plans, switch between carriers, and eliminate the need for physical SIM cards. It is traditionally delivered through the use of a QR code.
The eUICC is a more comprehensive technology primarily used in IoT and M2M applications. The eUICC hosts multiple SIM profiles on a single chip, enabling remote provisioning and management of various carrier profiles without physically swapping SIM cards. While the eSIM is user-focused and facilitates carrier switching in consumer devices like smartphones and tablets, the eUICC offers a standardised approach to managing connectivity in diverse IoT deployments.
It allows devices to seamlessly switch between networks and carriers.
Common applications
eUICC for security and surveillance
In the realm of security applications, eUICC technology plays a vital role in enabling seamless connectivity and remote management of various systems that comprise a comprehensive security network. From CCTV cameras to access control systems and alarms, eUICC ensures constant connectivity and remote monitoring capabilities, thus enhancing the overall effectiveness and efficiency of security systems.
eUICC for telematics and trackers
eUICC technology is a versatile connectivity solution for telematics devices like vehicle and pet trackers, and wearables. It offers remote management capabilities and uninterrupted connectivity by allowing seamless transitions between different network providers. eUICC facilitates continuous connectivity in pet tracking devices and enables constant connectivity in wearables for transmitting health data and enabling various functionalities.
eUICC for healthcare devices
eUICC technology improves healthcare connectivity and functionality. eUICC enables remote patient monitoring, medical device connectivity, and telemedicine. With eUICC, medical devices can continuously transmit vital health data from patients for real-time monitoring by healthcare providers. This ensures timely interventions for individuals with chronic conditions or those in remote locations.
eUICC architecture & components
Key entities
- SM-DP+ (Subscription Manager Data Preparation Plus): Prepares and stores operator profiles for download.
- SM-SR (Subscription Manager Secure Routing): Manages secure download and activation of profiles.
- On-card security domains: Separate root credentials and operator-specific profiles using secure zones within the eUICC chip.
Profile lifecycle stages
- Download
- Install
- Enable
- Disable
- Delete
These processes occur over secure, encrypted channels.
GSMA standards & compliance
- SGP.02 – Remote provisioning architecture for M2M devices
- SGP.22 – eUICC Identifier specifications
- SGP.32 – Simplified provisioning for constrained IoT devices
- SGP.07 / 08 / 25 – Security and assurance frameworks
Security assurance & best practices
- Use of tamper-resistant secure elements with hardware-based root of trust
- Encrypted channels (SCP80/SCP81) for secure communications
- Firmware and OS updates with rollback protection
- GSMA eSA certification to validate lifecycle security
eUICC vs. eSIM vs. iSIM
- eSIM: The physical or virtual SIM profile downloaded onto consumer devices
- eUICC: The software system managing multiple operator profiles, enabling remote SIM provisioning
- iSIM: SIM functionality built directly into the device’s main processor, reducing power and size requirements
Implementation & lifecycle management
Onboarding
- Embed eUICC chips during manufacturing
- Establish trust anchors with MNOs
- Preload bootstrap profiles for out-of-box connectivity
Operational lifecycle
- Manage profiles remotely via SM-DP+/SM-SR
- Monitor connectivity and update over the air
- Securely decommission devices at end-of-life
Regulatory & legal considerations
- GDPR compliance: Ensuring secure handling of user and device data
- ePrivacy regulation (EU): Protecting the confidentiality of IoT communications
- EU Data Act: Enforcing interoperability and access to device-generated data
- Permanent roaming policies: Complying with roaming duration and anti-dumping rules
Market trends & future outlook
- Global eUICC adoption expected to exceed 4.5 billion connections by 2028
- Rapid uptake of iSIM for ultra-compact, low-power IoT
- 5G and network slicing opening new use cases in automation and smart cities
- Growth of cloud-based SM platforms improving scalability
Challenges & mitigation strategies
- Interoperability: Use of GSMA-approved standards and testing
- Security risks: Implement anomaly detection and frequent security audits
- Certification costs: Use modular certification strategies
- Management complexity: Deploy intuitive SIM management platforms
Cellhire’s eUICC solution
Cellhire is a leading provider of IoT eUICC/IoT eSIM solutions. Cellhire’s IoT eUICC solution enables your business to easily connect and manage devices worldwide with agreements in place with over 430 network operators across 191 countries. Our solution provides reliable and flexible support for efficient global IoT operations, making it an essential tool for you to unlock the full potential of your IoT devices.
Our IoT solution includes:
- Access to 4 UK networks
- Un-steered solutions that connect to the strongest network
- Security with static IP (private & public), SSL
- VPN and IPSEC options
- Protection that permits permanent roaming
- Commercials that improve margin at the same rate across UK & EU
- A SIM management portal that provides access to live data
To get started:
You’ll receive 2 IoT SIM cards, each loaded with 1 GB of data, plus have complete access to our market-leading SIM Management portal to truly experience Cellhire’s IoT solution.
Get 60 days to try before you buy.
