Core Viewpoint - The eSIM industry is experiencing unprecedented growth, transitioning from gradual development to explosive growth, particularly since 2022, with over 240 regional operators deploying eSIM services globally, although there is still significant room to achieve the GSMA's vision of universal eSIM support for all mobile and IoT devices [1][2]. Group 1: Consumer Awareness and Adoption - Consumer awareness and acceptance of eSIM technology are rapidly increasing, with approximately 50% of consumers aware of eSIM, and 20% knowing how to use it on their phones. In international travel scenarios, 50% of respondents expressed willingness to try eSIM for travel communication services [2]. Group 2: Value Proposition of eSIM - eSIM technology offers significant environmental benefits by reducing carbon emissions associated with traditional SIM card production and logistics. The integration of eSIM at the manufacturing stage eliminates the need for physical card distribution [3]. - From a user experience perspective, eSIM addresses many pain points associated with traditional SIM cards, allowing for online and remote switching of operators and plans, enhancing convenience [5]. - For device manufacturers, eSIM provides greater design flexibility, enabling the development of smaller devices without physical SIM slots, thus improving waterproofing capabilities [5]. Group 3: Technological Advancements - The eSIM products from a leading Chinese chip manufacturer have achieved significant commercial milestones, supporting various devices globally, including smartphones and wearables. This marks the first large-scale international commercialization of eSIM by a Chinese manufacturer [6]. - The new generation of eSIM products supports multiple profiles and certificates, allowing for dual standby functionality, which is crucial for eSIM-only devices [6][7]. - Compatibility between Chinese operator certificates and GSMA international certificates is a significant breakthrough, simplifying product development for international markets [7]. Group 4: Future Development Directions - Future eSIM products will incorporate innovative features tailored to the Chinese market, including support for multiple applications and enhanced security measures, such as national encryption algorithms and post-quantum algorithms [9]. - The vision for eSIM includes the development of an "all-time and space connection" ecosystem, integrating satellite communication and indoor WiFi access capabilities to ensure continuous connectivity [10]. Group 5: Industry Collaboration - China Unicom plays a crucial role in advancing the eSIM industry, having established partnerships with over 40 brands and 150 terminal models since launching eSIM services in 2015. Collaborative efforts include the development of dual-mode 5G eSIM products and the establishment of a joint laboratory for eSIM innovation [12]. - The "AI+5G+eSIM Industry Cooperation Initiative" launched during the 2025 MWC Shanghai aims to foster collaboration among over 50 leading companies in the industry, promoting an open and win-win AI terminal ecosystem [12]. Conclusion - eSIM is poised for explosive growth in the AI era, evolving from a single-function technology to a multi-faceted solution that addresses various needs, including device identity authentication and security. As standards and ecosystems continue to develop, eSIM will play an indispensable role in building a connected world [14].
AI时代催生eSIM新机遇:紫光同芯发布新一代芯片技术路线图
半导体芯闻·2025-06-25 10:24