IoT solutions company NuvoLinQ has launched a new eSIM offering for ultra-reliable, ultra-secure cellular point-of-sale (POS) connectivity in partnership with eSIM and IoT heavyweights BICS (a Proximus company) and Kigen. The solution offers backup connectivity options to ensure uninterrupted operations, allowing payment systems—such as card readers at retail stores or kiosks—to securely transmit and receive data, effectively safeguarding against fraud.

As cash payments grow less popular, reliable and secure points-of-sale to process card payments are becoming increasingly important. However, modern payment terminals are more than just cash registers or card machines. They often track inventory, customer needs, loyalty programs, and various data and analytic functions. This makes reliable and secure internet connectivity a must. Using a private cellular (i.e. 4G, 5G) connection instead of the retailer’s regular network (e.g. WiFi) is more effective in protecting payment data from hackers or unauthorized access, also known as snooping threats. And, since there’s no competition for bandwidth, it also ensures reliable connectivity.

“IoT has always held untapped potential for secure reliable payments, and this latest solution takes it to the next level”, says Maurizio Tersigni, CEO of NuvoLinQ. “Developed alongside the strongest players in the market, it raises the bar for the security and availability of POS data. It’s a positive step for companies deploying POS hardware and for the small and medium-sized businesses that rely on these technologies to keep their operations every day.”

The solution uses an MFF4 eSIM, provided by Kigen, that consumes far less power than a traditional SIM and, crucially, comes loaded with two profiles. This means the device can connect to two different networks, giving redundancy in the event of a network outage. POS outages can cost merchants millions in lost revenue, and as society becomes increasingly cashless, the reliability of the network supporting POS is only becoming more important.

Besides stability and security, the other benefit of the solution is its low-touch setup and management. NuvolinQ’s eSIMs come with a bootstrap (pre-installed and pre-configured) profile for easy setup and provisioning in the field, built on the latest eSIM IoT standards through Kigen’s eIM solution. NuvoLinQ is also using BICS ‘SIM for Things’ platform for instant connectivity and a portal to manage and monitor devices. POS devices will connect via BICS’ IPX network, which is fully isolated from the public internet, further strengthening security

“While manufacturers might associate IoT connectivity as a complex challenge, partnerships like this simplify the process significantly, Just as customers expect to pay with one tap, this solution means point-of-sale manufacturers can deliver reliable, secure connectivity to their devices via a single touchpoint,” says Surash Patel, Managing Director of BICS.

In North America, POS fraud increased by 27% last year. EMV (Europay, Mastercard, and Visa) regulation dictates that banks and retailers may be liable for the cost of POS fraud if unsecure technology is utilized. This is prompting more and more banks to offer their own POS hardware, opening up revenue streams to combat what might be lost to fraud.

Vincent Korstanje, CEO at Kigen, adds: “Even advanced POS systems rely on swapping SIM cards to switch providers, leading to downtime and fraud risks. Kigen’s compact eSIM technology, with dual profiles and the Kigen IoT eSIM remote manager (eIM) solution, simplifies the secure connectivity businesses and consumers can trust. Supporting IoT-driven payments, this solution also embraces innovations that are shaping the future of transactions.”

About BICS

As a leading communications platform company, BICS, a Proximus Global company, is connecting the world by creating reliable and secure mobile experiences anytime, anywhere. We are a global voice carrier and the leading provider of mobile data services worldwide. Our solutions are essential for supporting the modern lifestyle of today’s device-hungry consumer—from global mobile connectivity, seamless roaming experiences, fraud prevention, and authentication, to global messaging and the Internet of Things. We are headquartered in Brussels, with a strong presence in Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.

About NuvoLinQ

NuvoLinQ is transforming the way businesses connect in an increasingly digital world. As a pioneer in IoT connectivity, we specialize in ultra-reliable, secure, and scalable eSIM solutions that power industries ranging from payment processing to smart manufacturing. Our mission is simple: make IoT easy, secure, and impactful. By blending cutting-edge technology with user-friendly solutions, we help businesses stay ahead in the fast-paced world of connected devices. Headquartered in Toronto, Canada, NuvoLinQ collaborates with global leaders to shape the future of IoT and deliver seamless connectivity wherever it’s needed.

About Kigen 

Kigen is the forerunner in eSIM and iSIM security-enabled IoT solutions built for scale. An Arm-founded company, Kigen flexibly empowers OEMs with security on leading IoT chipsets and modules and with the world’s leading IoT and LPWAN connectivity providers in up to 200 countries. Our industry-leading SIM OS products enable over 2.5 billion SIMs and complement our GSMA SAS-accredited Remote SIM Provisioning secure service capabilities.