Apple and Samsung in Talks to annul the SIM Card

Apple and Samsung in Talks to annul the SIM Card

In order to use our Smartphones, most of us on the GSM platform, still need pieces of plastic with a chip called SIM cards. If Apple and Samsung get their way, those SIM cards will not be around for long.

The two Tech giants are in "advanced talks" to start using electronic SIM cards in their smartphones, which will allow users more mobility and ease in switching between Telecom carriers. The e-SIM card will be embedded directly within the device that can be reprogrammed to work with Telecom mobile operators around the world that support the standard.

SINGLE OPEN SIM STANDARD:-

The GSMA, the Telecom Association that represents Mobile operators, says there is an agreement detailing standards of the new electronic SIMs (e-SIMs) that will be announced soon. GSMA is still in talks with Apple to secure their support for the initiative.

With the majority of Telecom operators onboard, the plan is to finalise the technical architecture that will be used in the development of an end-to-end remote SIM solution for consumer devices with delivery of the electronic SIM anticipated for 2016.

Apple and Samsung are in agreement for the specifications and are willing to work with other industry stakeholders to create an industry solution for machines and to agree a solution for consumer electronics.

The e-SIM is similar to the Apple SIM available for the cellular version of iPad Air 2 and iPad Mini 3 which have pre-installed SIM cards which work with multiple carriers. (This service currently works in the US and UK with a scant selection of operators).

This may put an end to network exclusive handsets debuts and would allow consumers to switch between networks to find a better deal without having to change a physical SIM card. Current physical SIMs are tied to a specific carrier and can't work with handsets locked to other networks.

Stay tuned for new developments