The mobile industry is quietly preparing for the biggest change to your smartphone in a decade: iSIM will hasten the end of SIM cards and allow networks to pre-load subscriptions onto devices
The mobile industry is set to undergo significant transformation over the next two years, with the looming shift to integrated SIM cards or iSIMs, new research claims.
A new study from Juniper Research predicts a massive increase in the global number of iSIMs installed in connected devices, from 800,000 in 2024 to more than 10 million in 2026.
The release of GSMA’s SGP.41/42 specifications, expected by the end of 2025, will drive expected growth of more than 1,200 percent. These guidelines will standardize and streamline the rollout of iSIM devices.
Expected increase in the number of connections
An iSIM (also known as the iUICC – Integrated Universal Integrated Circuit Card) is based on the eSIM (embedded SIM) form factor and integrated into the device’s processor, effectively eliminating the need for a separate SIM module. It seems that the integration of the iSIM will propel us into an era where the traditional SIM card will become obsolete and networks will pre-load subscriptions onto devices.
The GSMA’s SGP.41/42 specifications provide the framework for In-factory Profile Provisioning (IFPP) capabilities. IFPP enables the uploading of iSIM profiles to a device during production, allowing devices to be shipped to the desired network with pre-configured cellular connectivity.
The Juniper report points out that “Despite increased willingness, it is important to note that an industry-wide standard for iSIM technology does not yet exist. Without a standard, manufacturers will not be willing to risk launching a solution that does not meet an official standard.”
Elisha Sudlow-Poole, the author of the Juniper Research report, added: “eSIM vendors must ensure they provide standards-agnostic platforms that are flexible to future form factors, standards and usage requirements. In addition, eSIM vendors must develop trusted partnerships with manufacturers to ensure adoption of iSIM connectivity services as soon as there is market demand.”
Juniper’s research expects the number of iSIM connections to rise to 210 million worldwide by 2028, thanks to adoption opportunities in scenarios such as smart energy meters and remote logistics, where there is a need for energy-conscious devices with a small form factor.