eSIM market

The value of the global embedded SIM (eSIM) market is expected to increase from $4.7bn in 2023 to $16.3bn by 2027, according to a new study from Juniper Research, which highlights how mobile operators will face additional pressure to quickly adapt to avoid subscriber dissatisfaction and develop new monetisation possibilities.

According to a report, the eSIM market will grow by “an impressive” 249% in the next four years, as consumers are set to increasingly adopt eSIM-enabled smartphones as they become widespread. A company’s valuation includes revenues from connected device and sensor eSIM module shipments (hardware), and platform revenues from connected device and sensor eSIM management.

For most people who already have a physical SIM in use, switching to an eSIM will not make much of a difference. However, those worried about the privacy and security of their SIMs can switch to eSIM to lock their identification with their smartphones in case of theft.

Apple is expected to launch such devices in markets across Europe this year where eSIM technology is seen as key to tackling the “time-consuming establishment of roaming agreements within the fragmented European telecommunications market”.

The trend shows that Apple is not all alone in abandoning physical SIMs. Manufacturers, such as Samsung and Google, are also working on equivalent eSIM-only smartphones running the Android OS.

Experts suggest that industry bodies must work closely with the Chinese government to develop specifications that allow eSIM support whilst addressing requirements for device monitoring and tracking.

eSIM is going to disrupt the telco market. According to the research, the widespread adoption of eSIM will shake up the telecoms market – and operators need to be prepared for the impact.

Despite operator concerns regarding the disruptive impact of eSIMs on existing business models, growing support from smartphone manufacturers will place additional pressure on operators. In response, service providers must support eSIM connectivity to avoid subscriber attrition as technology awareness increases.

One expected change will be a shakeup in operator sales channels. “There will no longer be a need for operators to own physical brick-and-mortar stores on the high street. Instead, end users will be able to buy connectivity via an app or web page, or in-person at device stores (such as the Apple store),” the report suggested.

Going forward, new business potential doesn't end there as network operators are “in a prime position” to “monetise premium, highly secure authentication services” at an elevated price point.

Dr. Deepak Kumar Sahu, President & CEO, VARINDIA