The Next Step in IoT Connectivity

The world of connected devices continues to expand from industrial sensors and vehicle fleets to offshore platforms and healthcare equipment. But as deployments scale globally, managing thousands of SIMs securely and efficiently becomes increasingly complex.

That’s where a new concept comes in: the eIM, short for eSIM IoT Manager.

What Exactly Is an eIM?

The eIM is a central component of the GSMA’s new IoT eSIM architecture (SGP.32). It acts as the “mission control” for eSIMs in IoT devices enabling organisations to remotely manage, add, remove, or update eSIM profiles without needing to access physical hardware.

Defined in the GSMA’s latest SGP.32 v1.2 specification, the eIM is designed to simplify lifecycle management for eSIMs (or eUICCs), bringing automation and scalability to IoT deployments of all sizes.

🔗 Read the GSMA Explanation - What is eSIM for Consumer and IoT?

What Does It Do?

The eIM allows remote management of eSIM profiles through a secure, server-initiated mechanism. This makes it possible to:

• Add or remove profiles from supported eUICC cards or embedded chips
• Enable or disable eSIMs across devices
• Update configurations over the air (OTA)

All actions are handled centrally, reducing manual effort and ensuring consistent security and compliance across large device fleets.

Why the eIM Matters?

Until now, most eSIM solutions were designed for consumer devices like smartphones or wearables where users manually activate or switch profiles.
In contrast, IoT devices such as sensors, meters, or tracking systems lack user interfaces and often operate in hard-to-reach locations. They require remote, automated management.

With an eIM in place, companies can:

• Manage global device fleets from one platform
• Strengthen security with centralised control
• Reduce costs and downtime by avoiding physical SIM swaps
• Scale faster with simplified provisioning and updates

In short, the eIM brings control, security, and scalability to the next generation of IoT connectivity.

The Evolution Ahead

The GSMA standards mark a major step toward more flexible, interoperable IoT connectivity. As device manufacturers begin releasing eIM-ready eSIM and iSIM modules, the ability to manage connectivity remotely will soon become the new normal improving uptime, security, and cost efficiency across industries.

In the meantime, Telecom26 can supply eUICC cards, that fit your existing devices. These allow you to upgrade your existing devices to support eSIM with the remote management of an eIM.

Why It Matters to Telecom26 Customers?

As a proud GSMA member, Telecom26 continuously tracks and contributes to global standards that enhance the security and reliability of mobile connectivity.
With operations in over 200 countries and territories, Telecom26’s network already supports IoT, enterprise mobility, maritime, and industrial applications and is ready to evolve alongside new eSIM and eIM innovations.

Customers benefit from:

• Flexible connectivity for global operations
• Easier device deployment and management
• Confidence that their solutions align with international standards

Potential Use Cases

The eIM architecture opens possibilities across multiple sectors, including:

• IoT & Industrial Deployments – for devices in remote or hard-to-access locations where on-site SIM maintenance is impractical.
• Fleet Management & Logistics – enabling over-the-air profile updates for vehicles crossing national or operator boundaries.
• Maritime & Offshore Operations – ensuring ships and platforms can switch between global and local profiles to optimise cost and compliance.
• MVNOs & Partners – empowering smaller operators and service providers to manage eSIM-enabled devices through a unified platform.

Related Reading

• [SGP.32 — The Future of eSIM for IoT? Yes… But Not the Full Answer]
  How GSMA’s new standard changes IoT eSIM architecture — and what remains to be solved.
• [Tech Tip #13 – How Can We Bring eSIM Convenience to Industrial Devices and Routers?]
  Exploring how eSIM technology is evolving for industrial connectivity.
• [Local Profile Assistant for IoT Devices]
  Understanding how device-side management (LPAd) enables dynamic connectivity in the field.

Stay Tuned

Telecom26 is closely following the GSMA’s latest developments around eIM technology.
Stay tuned for updates as we continue exploring how this next generation of smart, remotely managed connectivity will shape the future of IoT, fleet, and enterprise communications.

If you’d like to learn more, contact our experts.