As physical space inside electronics becomes increasingly scarce, manufacturers are finding new ways to implement core functions in more efficient ways. The new iSIM (Integrated SIM) standard is on the way, as Vodafone, Qualcomm and France-based multinational Thales test a proof-of-concept for the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 on Vodafone’s network.
The new iSIM standard is based on eSIM, integrating SIM technology directly into a device’s main chipset. For reference, an eSIM requires a separate chip to process data. The key feature of iSIM is that it eliminates a separate dedicated space for SIM services, while providing all the benefits of eSIM, such as remote SIM provisioning by operators.
The new standard will also allow a range of devices such as wearables, laptops, tablets, VR and IoT devices to benefit from active data connectivity without wasting valuable space. No timeline was provided as to when we should expect the first iSIM devices on the market.
