What are Global IoT eSIMS?

Global IoT eSIMs: A quick summary

Global IoT eSIMs are unlocking scalable, borderless connectivity by allowing devices to switch mobile networks remotely without changing SIM cards. Powered by eUICC technology, they simplify international deployments and streamline logistics. While not all eSIM solutions are equal, understanding the differences is key to choosing the right fit for long-term success.

What is a global IoT eSIM?

A Global IoT eSIM is a SIM card with embedded Universal Integrated Circuit Card (eUICC) technology that supports remote provisioning of mobile operator profiles. This allows IoT devices to connect to networks globally without requiring manual SIM swaps or pre-loaded regional SIMs. In principle, a single eSIM can support multiple operators across geographies, streamlining manufacturing and simplifying logistics.

How global IoT eSIMs work

There are three main technical approaches to global IoT eSIM implementations:

GSMA-accredited eSIM (Remote SIM Provisioning - RSP)

The gold standard. Supports over-the-air (OTA) provisioning of operator profiles to any eUICC SIM using GSMA’s standardized framework. This method is future-proof, flexible, and scalable.

Multi-IMSI SIMs

Multiple International Mobile Subscriber Identities (IMSIs) are preloaded onto a SIM. The device can switch between them to access different networks. However, these are proprietary implementations and lack standardization, making them harder to scale and manage.

Roaming-only eSIMs (Non-eUICC)

Often mislabeled as eSIMs, these are simply traditional SIMs with a single roaming profile. They rely on roaming agreements to function internationally but offer limited flexibility and are vulnerable to regulatory changes.

Benefits of global IoT eSIMs

• Scalability: Deploy the same device SKU globally without regional customization.

• Flexibility: Switch network providers remotely, without physical access to the device.

• Future-proofing: Add new operator profiles as they become available.

• Cost optimization: Select profiles with favorable local rates or better performance.

• Operational simplicity: Centralize SIM management through remote provisioning.

Challenges of global IoT eSIMs

• Limited availability of local profiles: Not all operators offer profiles for remote provisioning.

• Complex integrations: Establishing agreements with many operators is time-consuming and technically intensive.

• Regulatory barriers: Some countries restrict or ban permanent roaming (e.g., Turkey).

• Vendor lock-in risks: Proprietary implementations (e.g., multi-IMSI) may reduce flexibility over time.

• OTA management overhead: Managing profile swaps or eSIM infrastructure requires specialized tools and processes.

Common use cases

Asset tracking

Logistics devices that move across borders need seamless connectivity.

Smart agriculture

Devices in remote areas benefit from flexibility in choosing the best available network.

Industrial IoT

Equipment deployed in multiple countries must be easily manageable and serviceable remotely.

Consumer Electronics

Wearables and connected devices require low-touch provisioning across global markets.

Key considerations when choosing a global IoT eSIM solution

Not all global eSIM offerings are created equal. Key factors to consider include:

• Deployment locations & device mobility: Where will your devices be used, and will they move between regions?

• Lifespan of the device: Does your solution accommodate long-term connectivity needs?

• Network flexibility: Can the provider add new operator profiles as needed?

• Scalability: Will the solution scale smoothly as your fleet grows or expands internationally?

• Cost efficiency: Are there better alternatives than global roaming?

The GSMA-accredited remote SIM provisioning model stands out as the most robust and future-ready solution. While multi-IMSI and roaming-only options might suffice in some scenarios, they come with trade-offs in flexibility, interoperability, and longevity.

If you're evaluating global IoT connectivity solutions, be sure to align your choice with your technical requirements, geographic footprint, and long-term business goals. If you need help selecting the right solution, the Pelion team is always here to assist with the infrastructure, partnerships, and experience to support truly global IoT deployments