Enterprise Internet of things (IoT) adoption is accelerating as organizations across industries seek to digitally transform their operations. Recent research by technology analyst firm Omdia underscores how 5G networks and embedded SIM (eSIM) technology are becoming “must-haves” for companies implementing IoT platforms.

5G networks provide the high bandwidth, low latency, and massive device connectivity required for advanced IoT applications. 5G delivers major performance improvements over 4G, with peak speeds up to 20 Gbps compared to 1 Gbps on 4G. Latency on 5G can be reduced to just 1 millisecond versus 50 milliseconds on 4G. Additionally, 5G supports up to 1 million device connections per square kilometer versus 100,000 on 4G.

Unlocking the Potential of Enterprise IoT with 5G and eSIM

Omdia forecasts that there will be 5 billion 5G connections globally by 2030. An estimated 45% of these, or 2.25 billion connections, will be for IoT use cases. The rollout of 5G, combined with maturing IoT technologies, will accelerate enterprise adoption in key domains such as smart factories, connected vehicles, remote patient monitoring, and smart cities.

For example, 5G enables real-time control of production lines and machines in smart factories. It allows for time-sensitive coordination between robots, automation systems, and people on the factory floor. 5G also facilitates video-based monitoring and quality assurance using AI/computer vision. These capabilities can significantly improve operational efficiency and productivity.

Meanwhile, eSIM simplifies how IoT devices connect to cellular networks by eliminating physical SIM cards. With eSIM, there is no need to manually install SIM cards in each device. Instead, connectivity profiles can be remotely provisioned over-the-air. Omdia expects global eSIM shipments to grow from 424 million units in 2020 to 3.4 billion units in 2025. One-third of these shipments will be for IoT devices and applications.

eSIM Flexibility Unlocking Advanced Enterprise IoT Applications

eSIM offers several advantages for enterprise IoT deployments. It streamlines the supply chain and inventory management by removing SIM cards. Switching between mobile network operators is easier with remote connectivity provisioning. eSIM also enables more robust security, as profiles can be permanently disabled if a device is lost or stolen. Additionally, over-the-air updates allow connectivity settings and plan to be changed without touching any hardware.

As a result, eSIM is becoming a core requirement for companies procuring IoT devices and platforms. Omdia’s research found that two-thirds of organizations rank eSIM capabilities as “critical” or “very important” in their IoT purchasing decisions. Companies are demanding built-in eSIM across a wide range of devices like smart meters, asset trackers, medical devices, and industrial sensors.

In summary, the rollout of high-performance 5G networks combined with the flexibility of eSIM technology is set to accelerate enterprise IoT adoption. As 5G coverage expands globally over the next decade, companies will be able to leverage these key innovations to implement advanced IoT use cases and drive digital transformation across their organizations. The research clearly highlights how 5G and eSIM have become “must-have” platforms for forward-thinking enterprises embracing IoT.

Here are some indicative prepaid eSIM card prices: eSIM Activation

Like this? "Sharing is caring!"