What is the right eSIM activation method for consumer device connectivity?
eSIM technology is a breakthrough for connectivity services, allowing out-of-the-box device connectivity on a mobile network as well as complete digitization of customer interactions. The eSIM profile contains the operator data related to a user’s subscription and authenticates the user on a mobile network. It can be remotely downloaded over the air into the eUICC, the secure element that is soldered onto the device. best esim activation methods
In the consumer model, which is defined by GSMA Remote SIM Provisioning (RSP) specification, the operator’s eSIM subscription management server (SM-DP+ or Subscription Manager Data Preparation) is responsible for storing, preparing and downloading operator eSIM profiles to the eUICC of consumer devices (smartphones, tablets, laptops, wearables…). In this model, the user triggers the mobile subscription activation—this can be done via one of several ways.
Let’s take a look at the different eSIM activation methods that enable consumers to securely and remotely provision and activate an eSIM mobile subscription (eSIM profile) onto an eSIM device, Idemia reports.
Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) can choose the most suitable methods for their use cases, business needs, and requirements—IDEMIA supports each of these eSIM activation methods.
Method 1: GSMA eSIM Discovery eSIM activation
When a user buys a subscription from an MNO, the MNO sends the eUICC identity (EID) to their subscription management server (SM-DP+). The MNO’s SM-DP+ then informs the GSMA eSIM Discovery (the GSMA Subscription Management Discovery Server, or SM-DS) that it has a profile for a particular device, and sends the EID and SM-DP+ address to the GSMA’s SM-DS.
Once switched on for the first time, the device connects to the GSMA eSIM Discovery and seamlessly acquires the eSIM profile from the correct operator. This is the most transparent and user friendly eSIM activation method for users, but it requires a connection between the operator’s SM-DP+ platform and the GSMA’s SM-DS platform.
IDEMIA has already integrated the GSMA eSIM Discovery service into its SM-DP+ platform, to relieve MNOs from integration efforts.
Method 2: eSIM activation via the default SM-DP+
To benefit from the default SM-DP+ method, an MNO needs to partner with the device manufacturer in order to provision the device’s eUICC with the operator’s remote SIM provisioning platform (SM-DP+) address. This is done during the device manufacturing process. At first activation, the device connects to the SM-DP+, which downloads the eSIM profile on the device.
This method offers customers an easy and seamless experience, as the operator’s remote SIM provisioning platform (SM-DP+) is contacted automatically, with no specific action required from the user.
Here are some indicative prepaid eSIM card prices:
