eSIM and iSIM: What’s the Difference?

In the IoT industry, terms like eSIM and iSIM are frequently used by various MNOs, MVNOs, and organizations. However, these terms are not always used correctly, leading to some confusion. Every organization has its own perspective, and in this article, we aim to clarify the differences between eSIM and iSIM according to our vision.

What is an eSIM?

From our perspective, ‘eSIM’ is a broadly applicable term. It encompasses all form factors and variations of ‘SIM cards’ in the broadest sense. This includes standard SIM cards such as 2FF (Mini), 3FF (Micro), and 4FF (Nano), which integrate eUICC technology. It also includes the MFF2 SIM chip (a soldered, embedded SIM chip) equipped with eUICC technology. Additionally, the term eSIM covers Multi IMSI SIM cards, QR codes, and RSP eSIMs.

Types of eSIM

At Thingsdata, we categorize eSIM into five types:

1. Standard SIM cards with eUICC technology
2. MFF2 SIM chips
3. Multi IMSI SIM cards
4. QR codes
5. RSP eSIMs

What is eUICC?

eUICC stands for Embedded Universal Integrated Circuit Card. The main advantage of eUICC is its ability to configure multiple mobile network profiles on a single SIM card, managed over the air (OTA). This ensures stable IoT connectivity, especially beneficial for global roll-outs where one operator might not provide the best conditions in all regions.

MFF2

The MFF2 SIM chip is a small form factor SIM placed directly on the PCB during production, making it irremovable manually. The ‘e’ in eSIM here stands for ’embedded.’ Its compact size allows integration into various devices, saving space.

Multi IMSI SIM Cards

Multi IMSI technology enables multiple carrier profiles on one SIM card, which can switch between them manually or automatically. This feature helps avoid high roaming costs by switching based on location. MVNOs commonly use this technology, allowing IMSI profiles to be added or removed OTA, optimizing data costs during international roaming.

QR Code

A QR code activates an eSIM profile. It is generated with the necessary information per profile and, once scanned, activates the eSIM profile on the device, simplifying the activation process.

Remote SIM Provisioning (RSP)

RSP eSIMs utilize OTA to program and configure the SIM card remotely. This is particularly useful for uploading local profiles in countries with permanent roaming restrictions, making programming, configuration, and activation easier.

What is an iSIM?

An iSIM integrates the SIM into the processor core, utilizing eUICC technology within a cellular module or system on a chip (SoC). The ‘SIM’ becomes a routing code, license, or certificate. iSIM addresses the limitations of other eSIM variants, offering benefits like lower energy consumption, reduced footprint, and lower costs. It also provides advanced security options such as hardware authentication and encryption.

In 2014, the GSMA standardized eSIM for remote SIM provisioning, ensuring interoperability across suppliers and preventing vendor lock-in.

Differences Between eSIM and iSIM

The primary technical difference lies in the hardware. iSIM shifts the functionalities to the device’s hardware chipset, eliminating the need for individual components. This reduction results in advantages in terms of footprint and energy consumption.

More Information

For further details about eSIM and iSIM, please contact us at +31-85-0443500 or email us at info@thingsdata.com.