CSL Group yesterday launched a new intelligent SIM card that promises to radically improve network connectivity for IoT devices and mobile internet, in partnership with global operators Deutsche Telekom IoT and Tele2 IoT.
The rSIM® (Resilient SIM) uses new patented technology to check its own network connectivity and switch providers automatically when disruptions occur, minimising the chances of the SIM and the device becoming disconnected during outages. With two independent mobile operator profiles stored on the single SIM card, rSIM significantly reduces the risk of outages by switching to a backup mobile operator profile if an outage is detected. The SIM offers two levels of resilience, enabling seamless roaming outside of a device's home country as well as a proactive solution for uninterrupted internet access. The intelligence is brought to life in a new Connectivity Management Platform, where customers can see real-time connection tests from every SIM no matter which mobile operator profile it is connected to.
Deutsche Telekom IoT and Tele2 IoT will act as rSIM's first connectivity partners, providing independent operator profiles from within their group to deliver true resilience to a global audience.
rSIM will combine best in-class SIM innovation with patented technology to help mobile operators better serve customers. A global SIM technology provider will lead on the product build and manufacture, as well as providing supporting SIM systems that allow rSIMs to be updated over the air. As part of this they will prioritise GSMA compliance to optimise device and operator compatibility.
The launch of rSIM follows on from a series of notable and high-profile network outages. As Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) invest in upgrading their core networks away from 2G and 3G, to 4G and 5G, periods of unplanned downtime have become more prevalent. A recent outage in Australia left customers disconnected and, in some cases, in life-critical positions. A 12-hour network outage in November 2023 affected over 10 million individuals, resulting in a collapse in the Australian health service and shutting down entire train networks. rSIM provides a real-time solution to mitigate critical connectivity outages and the disruption associated with them.
rSIM's innovative approach to standards compliance ensures its adaptability alongside evolving GSMA standards. This will include the development of a version compatible with SGP.32 standards in 2025, which are integral to eSIM remote provisioning for IoT devices, particularly those with network or user interface limitations.
Richard Cunliffe, Director of Product and Innovation, rSIM
There were around 2 billion cellular IoT connections in 2023, growing to around 7 billion in 2033. As more industries become dependent on IoT, mobile network outages are becoming more commonplace, as more devices connect to them. This increased disruption is affecting all industries, but the biggest impact is seen in critical sectors where lives and infrastructure are at risk, for example in Telecare and Critical National Infrastructure (CNI). Working with our best-in-class global partners on the development, build and rollout of rSIM, our innovative dual SIM, dual core approach will provide a solution which both monitors disruptions and reacts to them at speed.
