Multi-IMSI versus eUICC: What’s the difference?
As an IoT provider committed to delivering exceptional connectivity solutions, we understand the importance of selecting the right network approach to meet the diverse needs of our customers. With the rapid expansion of IoT applications across various industries, the demand for robust, reliable, and flexible connectivity strategies has never been greater. In this article, we offer insights into two key approaches in our portfolio: Multi-IMSI SIM and eUICC. By examining the differences between these offerings, we aim to empower businesses to make informed decisions that align with their connectivity requirements and strategic objectives. At Simbase, we are dedicated to providing innovative approaches that drive efficiency, productivity, and success in the ever-evolving IoT landscape.
What is a Multi-IMSI SIM?
The IMSI, or International Mobile Subscriber Identity, functions as a digital passport for your device, enabling it to connect to the internet through the mobile networks. Just like a passport uniquely identifies an individual, an IMSI serves as a unique number associated with a carrier profile, allowing for the identification, authentication, and tracking of subscribers in mobile networks. Unlike traditional SIM cards, which are tied to a single network, a Multi-IMSI SIM can hold multiple pre-loaded IMSIs or mobile subscriptions. This versatility enables devices to switch between different networks seamlessly, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity even while roaming across different regions. Essentially, a Multi-IMSI SIM provides your device with multiple "passports," guaranteeing optimal network coverage and availability wherever it may be.
In simple terms, multi-IMSI technology offers the flexibility of having multiple passports for your device, ensuring it always finds the best network no matter where it travels.
What is an eUICC SIM?
The term "eUICC," often referred to as eSIM, stands for Embedded Universal Integrated Circuit Card. However, it's important to clarify: While the eSIM refers to the hardware component embedded in the networking device, the eUICC is the software component enabling remote “Passport” provisioning of the eSIM. This distinction means that eUICC technology supports not only embedded SIMs but also all SIM formats (2FF, 3FF, 4FF), facilitating seamless network switching without requiring physical replacement, regardless of whether the SIM is embedded or not. eUICC cards can receive new network profiles (Passports) over-the-air (OTA), unlike traditional SIM cards that store either one (single IMSI) or multiple profiles (multi-IMSI). This technology enables remote provisioning and management of subscriptions, providing greater flexibility, particularly in worldwide IoT deployments where network switching based on location or coverage is necessary.
Key Differences Between Multi-IMSI and eUICC
Although both multi-IMSI and eUICC enable network switching for devices, they operate distinctively. Multi-IMSI employs a conventional SIM card capable of storing multiple profiles or "passports" simultaneously. It autonomously selects the carrier to connect to based on location and network availability. On the other hand, eUICC, a technology utilized with SIM profiles, can also function with any SIM format and facilitates profile updates over the air.
Why Choose Multi-IMSI?
Autonomous Switching: It can switch networks on its own, ensuring your device can select the best IMSI for a specific country. The IMSI is selected when a SIM enters a different country and detects its MCC. Simbase leverages a technology that allows OTA IMSI pushes, that can push the SIM to use a different profile that is already on the SIM.
Proven Reliability: With its longer presence, it has had ample opportunity to refine and perfect its operations.
Great for Roaming: Multi-IMSI cards are great for roaming as they automatically connect to the appropriate networks once they travel abroad.
Why Go for eUICC?
Remote Management: You can update network profiles from afar, making it super handy for managing lots of devices.
Great for Enterprises: Its flexibility and ease of management make it ideal for large companies with devices all over the world.
Ability to add a local profile For enterprises that require access in countries that have roaming restrictions, the eUICC technology is a solution to comply with regulations.
Switching Providers: Switching IoT providers has always been a hassle as you would manually have to swap SIMs in the devices. With eUICC, this is no longer a restriction. You can transfer your SIMs to a different provider later.
While both Multi-IMSI SIM and eUICC serve as viable solutions for addressing connectivity needs in IoT deployments, the choice ultimately depends on the specific requirements and objectives of the project. While Multi-IMSI SIMs offer amazing coverage, eUICC provides unmatched flexibility and future-proofing capabilities. Regardless of the path you choose, at Simbase we got you covered. Get in touch with one of our IoT experts if you’d like to find out more.