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How the new iSIM could change the way smartphones are made
The era of traditional SIMs is passing away and will be replaced by a new technology by Qualcomm and Thales. The GSMA-certified iSIM is a variant of the standard SIM card embedded in the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 mobile platform. The solution is fully commercially ready and complies with high protection standards against cyberattacks. In addition, iSIM allows you to connect anywhere and anytime, just as with eSIM.
The development enables remote control via any platform. For example, you can use iSIM to change the rate on your card or select another mobile operator. There is no need to visit the consultants physically – everything is done remotely.
The company has been working on the embedded SIM card for several years. After extensive testing, the device is finally ready for use. The area of iSIM is only 1 sq. mm, which is 100 times smaller than standard nanoSIM. At the same time, the card has all the functions of a traditional SIM card but does not require a particular slot.
iSIM opens new opportunities
The authors of the development believe that iSIM opens new opportunities for users and for mobile device manufacturers. Thanks to this format, there is no need for a slot for the card, which frees up space for a more powerful battery or other solutions that improve functionality. In addition, a smartphone body can now be made more airtight without slot cutouts.
Experts have already evaluated the novelty. Analysts from Kaleido Intelligence forecast that by 2027 the iSIM production volume will amount to about 300 million devices, enabling embedded SIM cards to occupy 19% of the entire eSIM market.
Although iSIM technology is just beginning its development, it has every chance to replace the standard nanoSIM soon and compete with eSIM. It should be noted that already the second generation of the Snapdragon 8 Gen mobile processor supports this feature. And its developer Qualcomm does not plan to stop.
The main difference between iSIM from other sims is that to change the mobile operator does not need to get a new card; the company profile is loaded on the existing chip. In addition, the development allows the simultaneous use of multiple operators and switching networks directly in the phone settings.
According to Qualcomm and Thales, the new card contributes to better Internet access for mobile devices and will make standard SIMs useless. Tests have shown that iSIM simplifies the use of IoT systems. In addition, the format may be the only option for providing connectivity in some cases.