eSIM chip loading with connection credentials

STMicroelectronics is now the first embedded SIM (eSIM) manufacturer to be accredited by the GSMA for loading eSIM chips with connection credentials such as certificates and operator profiles before shipping.

The eSIMs, customized with connection credentials, enable smaller form factors, greater security, and increased flexibility. Chip-scale, permanently embedded, and electronically reprogrammable, eSIMs save space inside smartphones for extra features or battery capacity, while enabling different types of connected devices in tiny form factors for an expanding range of markets and applications, such as smart watches and Internet-of-Things (IoT) devices including smart meters, remote sensors, or gateways.

Building on existing accreditation to manufacture eSIM chips that meet the GSMA’s specifications for security and reliability, ST is speeding ahead of other chip makers by gaining further accreditation for securely applying eSIM personalization data, according to the GSMA’s Secure Accreditation Scheme for UICC Production (GSMA SAS-UP).

ST can now deliver personalized eSIMs, built around the proven ST33 secure microcontroller, directly to customers’ production facilities, ready to use with no further programming required. Equipment OEMs, mobile network operators, and SIM operating-system (OS) vendors can thus enjoy greater convenience, economy, and business efficiency by streamlining the eSIM supply chain to save handling overheads and reduce time to market.

“The SAS-UP accreditation of ST’s Rousset (France) production site for the personalization of WLCSP SIMs and eSIMs is a significant move in driving widespread adoption of trusted eSIM devices by enabling consumer and IoT device manufacturers to implement eSIM in very small form factors,” confirmed Jean-Christophe Tisseuil, GSMA’s Head of SIM and eSIM. “SAS-UP is a first and essential step towards a secure and trusted eSIM market deployment.”

“The eSIM is an important technological advance that makes it possible to build the connected world of the future, safely. The GSMA’s certification scheme governing production and personalization is critical for its success,” said Marie-France Florentin, Group Vice President, General Manager, Secure Microcontroller Division, STMicroelectronics. “Now that ST is accredited to produce and personalize eSIMs before shipping, our customers can benefit from greater efficiency and security throughout the entire supply chain, with all the safeguards and assurances provided by the GSMA’s ecosystem.”