Apple may extend eSIM use to Europe and some Asian markets by next year, when SIMs will be removed from its devices, according to Omdia analyst Dario Talmesio. The move would allow device makers to use the liberated space for other components and services, while mobile carriers would be able to compete for customers on the device, not just online and the high street. Competition between carriers would become more intense, and user churn could rise because it would become easier to switch providers. Prices could drop, and eSIMs could give Apple a chance to become an MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator), competing with existing carriers. Wider eSIM adoption might also lead to the evolution of automated switching services, in which consumers are automatically signed to new deals based on factors they see as important. Despite potentially increased competition, there are benefits for carriers, too, as they evolve from business models based on network provision toward becoming complex network-based service and integration providers.
Along with the convenience of using one device for multiple lines, the obvious benefits to eSIM on an international scale for consumers is that they can look forward to competitive sign-up deals as carriers combat churn. That might translate into lower prices, but could also turn into additional inducements such as free access to Apple Music, accessories, or robust quality-of-service levels. Another benefit for business users: in tandem with tweaks to Apple’s existing MDM ecosystem, it might become possible to remotely equip managed devices with business-only second lines during setup.
After all, if there’s a carrier store supported by eSIMs on iOS, then that presumably means carriers can be provisioned via API. For…
2023-03-21 17:00:03
Original from www.computerworld.com
