IDA set to call for open standard embedded SIMs trial

Singapore

THE Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore (IDA) will be issuing a request for proposal (RFP) to conduct a trial on over-the-air (OTA) mobile subscription management for embedded SIMs (also called eSIMs) for Internet of Things (IOT) devices such as sensors. The same eSIM will allow data to be carried on the cellular networks of different mobile network operators. An eSIM is a SIM card which is fixed within a device and cannot be changed.

Announcing the RFP at the opening of the second edition of the ITU-T (International Telecommunication Union Standardisation Sector) Study Group 20 (SG20) meetings on Monday, Minister for Communications and Information Yaacob Ibrahim said that the trial will explore how an open GSMA standard can enable eSIM chips to switch between different mobile network operators. It would be conducted in partnership with the PUB (Public Utilities Board).