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eSIMs or Removable SIMs for IoT, Which Is Best?

Image of different IoT SIM card form factors and the dates they were released including eSIM
Plastic SIMs and eSIM (MFF2)

Introduction

Clients often ask “Which should I use, traditional plastic SIMs, or embedded SIMs  (eSIMs) for my IoT solution?” Our go-to answer is always, “It depends.” We answer this way because it really does depend on many factors.

In this article we explore the pros and cons of both eSIMs physical SIMs for IoT projects. Not all pros and cons will have equal weight for each solution developer, but we think this is a good primer on the differences of each type of IoT SIM card.

First, let’s quickly define what we are talking about. We wrote an article several years ago that spoke to the evolution of the IoT SIM card specifically relating to the evolution of the technology behind SIM cards. We talked about eUICC as an emerging tech, and we called this an “eSIM.” For the purposes of this article, we are calling the embedded SIM (MFF2 form factor) an eSIM. Physical SIM cards are typically 2FF, 3FF, or 4FF form factors, but can also be enabled with eUICC tech, making them also “eSIMs.”  “eSIM” refer to either a SIM with eUICC technology, or an embedded SIM, but these are very different things.

Embedded SIM (eSIM):

eSIM Pros:

  1. Remote Provisioning: eSIMs are provisioned remotely and programmed with the necessary network credentials using bootstrap profiles. This eliminates the need for physical access to the device, and is particularly useful for IoT devices in remote or hard-to-reach locations.
  2. Scalability: eSIMs make it easier to scale your IoT deployment because you can provision and manage a large number of devices without physically swapping SIM cards.
  3. Reduced Physical Footprint: eSIMs are integrated into the device’s hardware, saving space and allowing for more compact IoT device designs.
  4. Improved Security: eSIMs often offer enhanced security features, such as better resistance to physical tampering and improved authentication protocols.
  5. Flexibility: eSIMs can switch between different carrier profiles, providing flexibility and cost optimization as you can select the best network for a given location or situation. However, this requires the cooperation of both carriers which is not always a given. Many carriers will not allow these profile change-overs.

eSIM Cons:

  1. Initial Cost: Implementing eSIM technology may require upfront investments in hardware and infrastructure for remote provisioning and management. Even the MFF2 SIM is more costly than traditional plastic SIMs.
  2. Compatibility: Not all IoT devices are eSIM-ready, so retrofitting existing devices with eSIM capabilities can be challenging and costly.
  3. Dependency on Manufacturers: Device manufacturers must support eSIM technology for it to be effective, and not all manufacturers do, limiting device options.

Traditional Physical SIM Cards:

Physical SIM Pros:

  1. Widespread Compatibility: Traditional SIM cards are widely supported by most IoT devices and have been the standard for many years.
  2. Low Initial Cost: The cost of traditional SIM cards and card readers is generally lower than implementing eSIM technology.
  3. Interchangeability: Physical SIM cards can be easily swapped between devices, which can be useful in some situations.

Physical SIM Cons:

  1. Physical Access Required: Changing SIM cards typically requires physical access to the device, which can be impractical for remote or deployed IoT devices.
  2. Scalability Challenges: Managing a large number of physical SIM cards can be cumbersome, leading to logistical challenges as your IoT deployment scales.
  3. Security Concerns: Traditional SIM cards are more susceptible to physical tampering and unauthorized removal, potentially compromising security.
  4. Limited Network Flexibility: Switching between carriers or network profiles is more difficult with physical SIM cards, leading to potential coverage and cost inefficiencies.

The choice between eSIM technology and traditional physical SIM cards in IoT applications depends on your specific use case and requirements. eSIMs offer advantages in terms of remote management, scalability, and flexibility. Traditional SIM cards are more widely compatible and have lower initial costs. It’s essential to evaluate your project’s needs, device compatibility, and long-term scalability when making this decision.

If you would like to have a conversation with one of our experts, please fill out our contact form. The contact form is located here. One of our experts will be in touch within 1 business day.

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The Use M2M SIM Cards in GPS Applications

GPS Points on a map of the world
GPS Points on a map of the world connected with M2M SIM Cards

Introduction

In the rapidly evolving landscape of technology, the Internet of Things (IoT) has emerged as a transformative force, connecting countless devices to the internet, enabling data exchange, and revolutionizing various industries. Among the groundbreaking applications of IoT, the use of M2M SIM cards in GPS (Global Positioning System) technology stands out as a game-changer. You might only think of GPS applications as tracking vehicle, but there are so many more solutions using GPS. This fusion of connectivity and GPS has opened up new frontiers in tracking, navigation, and location-based services, offering unprecedented opportunities for businesses and consumers alike.

Understanding M2M SIM Cards

Traditional SIM cards have long been used in mobile phones to connect to cellular networks. However, M2M SIM cards (AKA IoT SIM cards) are specifically designed to cater to the unique requirements of connected devices that fall under the purview of the Internet of Things. These SIM cards offer features like lower power consumption, enhanced security, and the ability to manage data usage efficiently.

Seamless Connectivity for GPS Devices

GPS devices, whether they are in vehicles, wearable gadgets, asset trackers, or environmental sensors, need reliable and continuous connectivity to function effectively. M2M SIM cards provide seamless connectivity across multiple networks, ensuring uninterrupted GPS data transmission. By leveraging these M2M SIM cards, GPS applications can operate without limitations, even in remote or challenging environments.

Real-Time Tracking and Fleet Management

IoT-powered GPS devices enable real-time tracking of vehicles, assets, and personnel. Fleet management becomes more efficient and productive, as businesses can monitor their vehicles’ locations, routes, and driving behavior in real time. This data-driven approach enhances safety, optimizes routes, reduces fuel consumption, and increases overall operational efficiency.

Precision and Accuracy

The integration of SIM cards with GPS applications enhances location accuracy significantly. IoT SIM cards ensure that the GPS devices remain connected to the strongest available network, reducing potential disruptions and enhancing precision. For industries such as agriculture and logistics, where precise location data is critical, this level of accuracy proves to be invaluable.

Geo-Fencing and Location-Based Services

Geo-fencing, a popular feature in GPS applications, allows users to set virtual boundaries around a specific location. When a GPS-equipped device enters or exits these predefined areas, it triggers automated actions or notifications. IoT SIM cards facilitate instant communication between the device and the backend systems, ensuring quick response times and seamless execution of location-based services.

Cost-Effective Data Management

IoT SIM cards offer flexible data plans tailored to the unique data requirements of various GPS devices. This flexibility allows businesses to manage data consumption efficiently, reducing unnecessary costs. Whether it’s occasional location updates or continuous real-time tracking, SIM cards provide cost-effective solutions to suit diverse GPS applications.

Environmental Monitoring and Smart Cities

IoT-enabled GPS devices play a crucial role in environmental monitoring, allowing researchers and authorities to gather data on air quality, weather patterns, and other environmental factors. Additionally, in the context of smart cities, M2M SIM cards are instrumental in supporting connected infrastructure and optimizing urban services like traffic management and waste collection.

Enhanced Security and Anti-Theft Measures

IoT SIM cards offer robust security features, safeguarding the data transmitted between the GPS devices and the backend servers. In case of theft or unauthorized access, these SIM cards enable remote device lock-down or data wipeout, mitigating potential risks and ensuring the protection of sensitive information.

Emergency Response and Personal Safety

GPS applications utilizing IoT SIM cards have proven to be life-saving tools in emergency situations. From locating lost or injured hikers to enabling rapid response during disasters, IoT-powered GPS devices provide critical location information to emergency services, expediting rescue operations and improving personal safety.

Scalability and Future Potential

As the IoT ecosystem expands, the application of SIM cards in GPS technology will continue to evolve. With the growth of 5G networks and advancements in satellite technology, the scope for GPS applications will expand, leading to more sophisticated and innovative use cases in domains such as autonomous vehicles, precision agriculture, and augmented reality.

Conclusion

The integration of M2M SIM cards with GPS applications has ushered in a new era of connectivity, precision, and efficiency.  GPS devices can now offer real-time tracking, enhanced security, and cost-effective data management. This is achieved using SIM Card connectivity. This seamless connectivity ensures that GPS applications can thrive in diverse environments. It unlocks a wealth of opportunities across industries, from fleet management and logistics to environmental monitoring and emergency response. As technology continues to advance, the synergy between cellular connectivity and GPS applications will undoubtedly lead to even more innovative solutions and transformative changes in the way we navigate and interact with the world around us.

If you would like to learn more about IoT SIM cards in GPS Applications, please reach out to us. You can request information by filling out our Contact Form. OneSimCard has been working with thousands of GPS application providers and we will be happy to share what we have learned in our over 27 years in Telecoms.

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How Are IoT SIM Cards Used?

Image of typical IoT Sim Card Form Factors
Typical IoT SIM Card form Factors

What is an IoT SIM card?

IoT SIM cards are small, programmable chips that are used to provide a secure and reliable connection to the internet for various devices and machines. These SIM cards are designed to be used in devices that require remote monitoring, control, and data transmission capabilities. The main advantage of IoT SIM cards is that they allow devices to be connected to the internet and communicate with other devices or systems, regardless of their physical location. This makes them an essential component of IoT-enabled systems and devices.

One of the key benefits of IoT SIM cards is their versatility and flexibility. They can be used in a wide range of devices, including smart homes, security systems, energy management systems, industrial machines, and vehicles. For example, in the case of smart homes, IoT SIM cards can be used to connect various home appliances and devices, such as smart locks, security cameras, and smart thermostats, to the internet. This enables homeowners to remotely monitor and control their home appliances and devices from anywhere, at any time.

Another key benefit of IoT SIM cards is their ability to provide a secure and reliable connection to the internet. IoT devices and systems generate and transmit large amounts of data, and it is critical that this data be transmitted securely and without interruption. IoT SIM cards provide a secure connection to the internet by encrypting the data transmitted between the device and the network. Additionally, they can be programmed to automatically switch between different mobile networks to ensure that the connection remains stable and secure.

IoT SIM cards are also highly cost-effective, as they do not require a separate modem or router to connect to the internet. This reduces the overall cost of the device or system, making it more accessible to a wider range of users. Furthermore, many IoT SIM cards come with flexible data plans that allow users to pay only for the data they actually use, reducing the overall cost of ownership.

What industries use IoT SIM Cards?

The list is vast! We see new and creative uses for IoT SIM cards everyday in conversations with our clients. The only limitation to the use of IoT SIM cards is the imagination of the engineer and/or entrepreneur who are developing solutions to problems. Below is a list of just 5 industries we see the most use of IoT SIM cards:

  1. Healthcare: IoT SIM cards are used in a range of medical devices, such as remote patient monitoring systems, wearable devices, and telemedicine systems. These devices use the secure and reliable connection provided by IoT SIM cards to transmit patient data to healthcare providers, enabling them to monitor patient health and well-being from anywhere.
  2. Agriculture: We wrote a case study about the growth of IoT in Agtech (pun intended). IoT SIM cards are used in smart agriculture systems to monitor soil moisture levels, crop yields, and weather conditions. This enables farmers to make informed decisions about crop management and to optimize their operations for maximum efficiency.
  3. Energy Management: IoT SIM cards are used in smart energy management systems to monitor and control energy usage in buildings and industrial facilities. This enables building owners and managers to reduce energy costs and to ensure that their facilities are operating efficiently.
  4. Transportation: We also wrote an article and a case study about the use of IoT SIM cards in the transportation industry.  IoT SIM cards are used in vehicles to provide real-time monitoring and control of the vehicle’s systems, including engine performance, fuel consumption, and location. This enables fleet managers to optimize their operations, reduce fuel costs, and improve safety.
  5. Retail: IoT SIM cards are used in retail systems to monitor and control the temperature and humidity of refrigerated storage units. This ensures that perishable goods are stored at the correct temperature, reducing waste and improving food safety.

Summary

IoT SIM cards are an essential component of IoT-enabled systems and devices. They provide a secure and reliable connection to the internet, enabling devices and systems to communicate with each other and with remote monitoring systems. IoT SIM cards are versatile, flexible, and cost-effective, making them a popular choice for a wide range of industries, including healthcare, agriculture, energy management, transportation, and retail.

If you are interested in learning more about the role of IoT SIM cards please let us know. Our IoT experts are happy to have a conversation with you about your specific requirements and will be glad to schedule a 30-minute, no obligation discussion with you. Simply fill out our Contact Form and we will be in touch to find a time that suits you the best.

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Vehicle Telematics Client Goes Global: Case Study

Connected Vehicle with Connected Lines of Data
Vehicle telematics connect many systems in a vehicle

Introduction

Vehicle Telematics has been a continually growing field for many years and has become a very mature category for connectivity. In this article we discuss a Vehicle Telematics client who has been with us for over 7 years. They operated in North America and decided to expand their reach beyond North America. With over 20,000 connected vehicles on our platform, going worldwide will increase the addressable market by over 10X (based on their estimates). They not only track GPS location and speed of vehicles for their customers, but also have solutions that read and report data points like, hard acceleration and deceleration, engine diagnostics, cargo temperature, and moisture levels, accessory activation (think plow up/plow down for snow plowing equipment), and many, many more data points on which they report.

The Challenge

It’s one thing to do business in North America. When you want to expand your business to other continents and many other countries, all of your operational challenges grow exponentially. IoT SIM Card connectivity is one of these operational obstacles. There are several ways to overcome this problem though. Some organizations choose to get native IoT SIMs in each country . As you grow globally, this strategy is less and less efficient when adding more and more countries to your marketing plan. You must:

    • Source the IoT SIM cards from a local provider. Sourcing from new providers can take you back through an RFP process and hoping upon hope that you choose wisely;
    • Configure your devices correctly. Each new connectivity provider has its own settings (APN, etc.) which you will have to maintain new SKU’s for each country and had the devices setup either at the factory when ordering new shipments, or locally by your Operations team in country;
    • Learn new platforms. Many M2M SIM Card companies have their own software and when you start to use several providers, now you have to learn new platforms (and remember all those new passwords!!), setup new API’s, and remember which provider is for which country…nightmare!!
    • Deal with currency exchange rates. Yes, this is a consideration! Working in new countries means dealing with new currencies, and the frequency by which currencies vary can keep your Finance team up at night.

Go Global for Vehicle Telematics Connectivity

Another strategy to overcome the struggle with global expansion for Vehicle Telematics connectivity is to choose a provider with a global footprint. Global  IoT SIM card connectivity providers are not all the same, though, and there can be pitfalls when choosing the right one for you. We talked about the considerations for choosing the right provider in a previous post.  One of the things we talked about was coverage. Having service available in the countries you are going to market your Vehicle Telematics solution is obviously critical, but having multiple networks available is also very important for redundancy.  But how does a global IoT SIM card provider solve the issues mentioned above?:

    1. Sourcing SIM cards. Having a true global IoT SIM card provider eliminates having to search for a provider in each country you open for new marketing. You can rely on the same team you are used to working with and there is no need to go through a new purchasing process
    2. Configuring your devices. Your Vehicle Telematics devices can be setup the same way for any country you want the device in which it operates. Global IoT SIM card providers have a single APN setting and this eliminates the problem of multiple SKUs for each country to which you are sending devices.
    3. Learning new platforms. This goes without saying. Keeping the same provider means you only have one platform to learn. All of the API’s are also the same, so integration to your portal is simple.
    4. Currency fluctuations. Having one provider means that you are working with a single currency. The fluctuations in currencies aren’t going to have an impact.

The Solution 

Our customer looked at the different options outlined above. They decided the wise choice was to use OneSimCard IoT as their provider for their global expansion. This was a simple decision though. They know us and our platform very well, and have integrated their portal with ours through APIs. They understood we were able to provide service in all of the countries to which they were looking to expand, while keeping service costs low. There were several countries where the cost of service was significantly higher. For these countries we created a parent/child account structure. With this structure they could isolate these higher cost countries from the lower cost countries.

We also worked with the client to simplify logistics. We are sending the IoT SIM cards directly to their factory. By doing this, the factory can test the units before they leave the facility. We provide them with free data for this testing. Sending the SIM cards to a single facility had another benefit because they saved on shipping costs.

How Can We Help Connect Your Vehicle Telematics Solution?

If you would like to learn more about OneSimCard IoT and how we can help you, please reach out! One of our IoT experts will be happy to speak with you. We can be reached by email at sales at onesimcard.com. You can also fill our our Contact Form. On this form you can provide a little information about your requirements and one of our team members will be in touch for a quick initial call.

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New API & New IoT Sim Card

New API Command Available for SIM Card Reset

We continue to listen to our IoT clients and their requests for improvements to our OSCAR IoT SIM Card Management Portal. There is now an API command for both Pooled and PAYG accounts, allowing a SIM reset. A SIM card reset takes the IoT SIM card off the network and allows it to re-register. Before now, this tool was only available on the Portal in the Service tab. There are many customers who prefer to manage most of the tools for their global IoT SIM Cards off the OSCAR management portal. This new API will help with initial troubleshooting of the IoT SIM.

New SIM Card Type Being Launched

For customers using the TCNS IoT SIM card type, you will start to see orders being filled with a new IoT SIM card named “TCNS – E”. This SIM will give you the same outstanding service you are used to, & will add some network operators. The most notable change is in Canada where we are adding Telus and Bell. Now all three major networks in Canada are available. There are also many other countries coming to this Multi-IMSI TCSN-E IoT SIM card. This is great news as we continue to grow our global IoT SIM card footprint and build more network redundancy!

If you have any questions about these enhancements to our IoT SIM card management portal, OSCAR, or any other suggestions or comments, please reach out to feedback@onesimcard.com.