Commercializing eSIM for Network Operators

Abstract

This paper illustrates how MNOs (mobile network operators) and MVNOs (mobile virtual network operators) can accommodate consumer devices that are equipped with embedded subscriber identity module (eSIM). It overviews the different deployment options for MNOs and MVNOs, implications on provisioning & activation systems, and associated process requirements. A fast track option would be cloud-based and relying on pre-printed eSIM vouchers; a standard deployment mechanism would be relying on on-demand generated eSIM vouchers; a sophisticated and complex deployment would involve a device entitlement gateway platform; finally, and though no known reference is using it, a discovery service based deployment is also an option. The paper includes eSIM reflections on SIM-related customer operations and highlights the need to introduce new eSIM re-use mechanism, the part that is still unavailable in GSMA (GSM association) specifications.