Industry Investment Rating - The report does not explicitly provide an investment rating for the eSIM industry [1][2][3] Core Viewpoints - eSIM technology is a significant evolution in the SIM card industry, offering a digital, non-physical SIM solution that enhances device flexibility, security, and reduces manufacturing and logistics costs [8] - The technology is particularly beneficial for IoT devices, smartwatches, smart homes, and automotive systems, enabling remote management and frequent network switching [3] - eSIM adoption is expected to grow significantly, driven by the increasing demand for connected devices and the transition to 5G networks [18][23] eSIM Technology Overview - eSIM (embedded SIM) separates the hardware carrier from the card data, allowing remote management of SIM profiles via over-the-air (OTA) updates [8] - The technology supports multiple implementation methods, including eUICC, TEE, eSE, and iUICC, with eUICC being the most widely adopted due to its comprehensive standard ecosystem [8] - eSIM technology reduces environmental impact by minimizing the use of natural resources and lowering carbon emissions during production and transportation [8] Global eSIM Development History - The development of eSIM technology has evolved from initial technical exploration to commercial promotion and global adoption [9] - Early challenges included hardware design, durability, and compatibility, which were gradually overcome through advancements in technology and industry collaboration [10][12] - Major companies like Apple, Sierra Wireless, and Qualcomm have played pivotal roles in advancing eSIM technology, with Apple integrating eSIM into its Apple Watch, iPad, and iPhone series [12][13] Global eSIM Industry Status Consumer Devices - Smartphones dominate the eSIM consumer device market, accounting for 60% of all eSIM-enabled devices as of June 2023 [19] - The number of eSIM-enabled smartphone models has grown 6.5 times since December 2018, reaching 181 models by June 2023 [19][20] - Smartwatches and tablets are also significant segments, with 67.1% of cellular-enabled smartwatches supporting eSIM in 2022 [22] IoT and Industrial Applications - By the end of 2023, eSIM connections in the IoT sector are expected to reach nearly 200 million, with further growth anticipated as 5G networks expand [23] - eSIM technology is increasingly adopted in industrial applications such as smart manufacturing, remote monitoring, and logistics management [24] - Companies like ARM, Infineon, and Giesecke+Devrient are actively developing eSIM solutions for industrial IoT devices [16][17] Chip and Card Manufacturers - Global eSIM chip shipments for smartphones reached 230 million units in 2022, with projections of 350 million units by 2024 [25] - Key players include Qualcomm, Giesecke+Devrient, Unisoc, and Wuhan Tianyu, which provide eSIM solutions across various devices and industries [26][27][28] Operators and Service Providers - As of June 2023, nearly 400 mobile service providers in 116 countries offer commercial eSIM services for smartphones, an eightfold increase since December 2018 [30][31] - Major operators like AT&T, Verizon, Deutsche Telekom, and NTT DoCoMo have been early adopters, offering eSIM services across multiple devices and industries [32][33] Global eSIM Technology Development Technology Evolution - eSIM technology has evolved from traditional SIM cards to embedded solutions, with standards developed by organizations like GSMA, ETSI, and TCA [36][47][53] - The GSMA has established a comprehensive eSIM standard system, covering both M2M and Consumer solutions, ensuring interoperability and security [47][48] International Standardization - GSMA, ETSI, and TCA have been instrumental in developing eSIM standards, focusing on interoperability, security, and compliance testing [47][53] - The GSMA's eSIM standards, including SGP.01, SGP.21, and SGP.31, are widely recognized and adopted globally [47][48] Domestic Standardization in China - China's eSIM standardization efforts are led by CCSA and TAF, with a focus on IoT and consumer electronics applications [54] - Key standards include YD/T 3515-2019 and YD/T 4640-2023, which align with international standards while addressing local industry needs [54] Global eSIM Application Analysis United States - Major US operators like AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile have been early adopters of eSIM technology, offering services for smartphones, smartwatches, and IoT devices [60] - eSIM adoption is growing due to its convenience, particularly for international travelers and IoT applications [60] Japan - Japanese operators such as NTT DoCoMo, SoftBank, and KDDI have introduced eSIM services, with increasing adoption in smartphones, smartwatches, and IoT devices [61] - The Japanese government's push for digitalization and IoT development supports the growth of eSIM technology [61] Europe - European operators like Deutsche Telekom, Vodafone, and Orange have launched eSIM services, with growing adoption in smartphones and IoT devices [62] - eSIM technology is expected to see increased penetration across Europe as more devices support the technology [62] China - Chinese operators, including China Unicom, China Mobile, and China Telecom, have been actively promoting eSIM technology, particularly in IoT and wearable devices [63] - The rapid development of 5G networks and IoT applications is driving eSIM adoption in industries like smart homes and automotive [63] Future Trends - By 2025, global eSIM smartphone connections are expected to reach 1 billion, growing to 7 billion by 2030, accounting for 76% of total smartphone connections [64] - In the IoT sector, eSIM connections are projected to increase from 3.5 billion in 2023 to 5.8 billion by 2030, driven by advancements in 5G and IoT technologies [65] - eSIM technology will continue to enable smarter, more connected, and efficient devices, transforming various industries and daily life [65]
eSIM技术和产业发展趋势研究（2024年）
中国信通院·2024-07-25 05:55