Telefonica and Thales Create IoT eSIM Platform

Telefonica Tech and Thales collaborated on an eSIM product for people using IoT technology in multiple countries, which allows customers to quickly switch between providers. The system uses the GSMA SGP.32 standard, which covers remote SIM provisioning.

Telefonica’s unit explained that Thales eSIM technology combined with its Kite managed IoT connectivity platform gave users the ability to centrally select an operator for a specific geographic location, manage subscriptions and provide a view of their global connectivity. The operator noted the service is able to integrate connectivity from Telefonica Group and third parties.

Key selling points of the system outlined by the company are around flexibility for international projects, cutting operational times and lowering technical barriers. Telefonica Tech head of IoT connectivity Juan Jose Gonzalez Menaya said that the latest eSIM-based product strengthened its commitment to offering advanced, global and flexible connectivity that can adapt to the challenges of an increasingly demanding IoT market.

Thales EVP mobile connectivity solutions Eva Rudin added that the move is supporting Telefonica in driving the next phase of secure IoT adoption worldwide. The service is the second announcement from Telefonica in the space of a week related to the use of flexible eSIM technology for IoT deployments, following a launch by the company’s German business in collaboration with specialist provider Crout.