Arm Brings Integrated SIM Identity For Next Wave of Cellular IoT Devices
For years, SIM cards have provided a robust, trusted and highly tested mechanism for secure identity for mobile phones and other cellular connected devices. However, traditional SIMs cannot change ownership after they are deployed in a device, and require physical access to change mobile network operator (MNO). In this shift to a world of billions of connected devices across smart cities, connected rural environments and digitally transformed industries, many of these devices will benefit from cellular connectivity, but physically making SIM changes is not scalable or even possible.
In addition to the issue of physical handling of SIMs, cost and size are barriers to integrating this technology into smaller form factor IoT devices for large scale, cost sensitive deployments. Simplification and cost efficiency are necessary to ensure that as the IoT grows, the management of credentials is transparent and interoperable. The evolution of embedded SIM (eSIM) and more recently integrated SIM (iSIM) form factors is essential for providing secure identity to cellular IoT devices.
Today, Arm is launching new technologies compliant with GSMA Embedded SIM Specifications to offer secure identity in cellular IoT applications for both device makers and service providers. In combination with an on-chip security enclave for enhanced hardware security (such as Arm® CryptoIsland), this will allow the integration of an MCU, cellular modem and SIM identity into a single IoTSoC to significantly reduce device costs.
These are views of Paul Williamson, vice president and general manager, IoT Device IP Line of Business, Arm

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