As remote SIM provisioning technology progresses, the connected ecosystem is constantly changing to deliver secure yet flexible connectivity. To keep pace, the GSMA released details of the new eSIM standard for IoT devices (SGP .32) in May 2023.

GSMA SGP .32 outlines technical specifications for remote eSIM management of Internet of things (IoT) and mobile device deployments. It facilitates seamless provider switching via simplified eSIM architecture. Thus, reducing deployment costs and accelerating go-to-market.

We highlight some of the key characteristics of the new specifications and how it will support the next wave of mass IoT deployments.

Remote SIM provisioning: A quick history

Over-The-Air (OTA) or Remote SIM provisioning with eSIMs was first introduced in 2012 from collaborations between AT&T with SIM card maker (EUM) G+D. It revolutionized the way users swapped connectivity providers without needing to replace the SIM card.

Unlike its predecessor, eSIMs gained a solid foothold due to strong uptake within the automotive industry. However, a SIM that allowed seamless switching between different MNO profiles was in demand as more connected vehicles were shipped globally.

With rapid adoption, technological standards had to be put in place, resulting in two different standards. One intended for consumer devices (SGP .2) and the other for M2M devices (SGP .22).

SIM profile swapping gains momentum

Initially, SIM provisioning was driven by Tier 1 MNOs as they retained 100 percent control over switching providers and profiles.

When connectivity started to move into consumer devices, a shift occurred. Industry leaders such as Apple and Samsung aimed to give consumers more control over swapping profiles on SIMs without getting MNOs involved.

The big advantage of the SGP .22 standard is the eSIM can be downloaded from any GSMA SAS certified SM-DP+. Making it extremely easy to deploy and scale. The latest specification – SGP .32 – provides an even simpler and more adequate deployment model for the mass IoT market. 

Why is there a need for the new eSIM IoT standard?

SGP .22 does not cater to constrained IoT devices and integration required for proper implementation is costly. It leaves out growing IoT use cases such as smart sensors, monitors and trackers.

As of 2024, these use cases make up the bulk of large-scale deployments. Thus, many M2M providers remained reliant on legacy technology with workarounds such as multi-IMSI.

It is imperative to note that SGP .32 completely replaces SGP .22. This means it will not be retroactively compatible and new IoT deployments and systems will be implemented with SGP .32.

Benefits of SGP .32

SGP .32 requires zero integration as it comes with the SM-DP+ architecture which assumes both SM-DP and SM-SR responsibilities.

This removes any integration of the SM-SR with the MNO’s SM-DP while also offering enhanced security and integrity of the eSIM. Additionally, the SM-DP+ enables more lightweight protocols to activate devices.

SGP .32 also offers management of a wider range of devices due to the eIM (eSIM IoT Remote Manager). This new architecture element enables the push control of bulk profiles to online devices. Together with SM-DP+ and more lightweight protocols, devices can be easily activated, regardless of where they are deployed in the world. 

Since the new standard requires no MNO integration, this means faster, more cost-effective and rapidly scalable implementations. MNOs will no longer need to restrict sales channels to a select few parties that it integrates with.

Instead, solution providers will be able to manage their own IoT fleet by obtaining activation codes and access to profiles through the SM-DP+. This means solution providers (e.g., MVNOs, MVNEs and MVNAs) will have access to more services. For example, purchasing subscriptions from telcos overseas to serve the growing needs of enterprises across geographies and industry verticals.

Future of SGP .32

In sum, the new IoT eSIM Specification (SGP .32) has been created to ease the rapid adoption of constrained IoT devices. These new standards, with the roll out of 5G NR REDCAP, will continue to motivate the growing uptake in eSIM adoption.

Unsure how or where to start? Fully harness the processing power and security of the SIM by working with knowledgeable partners who demonstrate a willingness to offer reliable advice and support over the long-term.

Start a free trial of ZARIOT SIMs today, or send us an email at connect@zariot.com.