SIM cards to be integrated into processors( iSIM) that helps IoT devices connect to Internet without Wi-Fi

 

Nowadays, the majority of the companies are looking to minimize the gadget

dimensions to the maximum possible limit. This presents them with the complex problem to integrate all the necessary electronics into small spaces. If you look at the scenario of SIM cards in mobiles there has been a gradual evolution with regard to the size of SIM slots. From traditional SIMs to the modern micro and nano SIMs there has been a visible change. But even then the chip makers are looking for alternatives that aim to reduce the hardware that houses them.

ARM the chipset maker unveiled a new design called Kigen that integrates SIM cards into the Internet of Things (IoT) devices. The so-called iSIM integrates into the same chip as the processor. Currently, most of the IoT devices depends on Wi-Fi for network connectivity. But by integrating the SIM cards into the IoT devices, it offers individual identity and IoT devices no longer need Wi-Fi for network connectivity. This is a good news for users of IoT devices. Since these devices need a working Wi-Fi connection, it exposes them to a range of security threats like default passwords and some of the devices can never get security updates.

Also Read: Beware of Huawei smartphones: US intelligence agencies warn its citizens

So with iSIM, IoT devices can be connected to the internet immediately and can be easily accessed even in Wi-Fi inaccessible areas. But the major hurdle will be whether the carriers will accept the new technology. The ARM is confident that they will receive carrier support as it also benefits them and draws more customers to their products. ARM hopes that the chips might be available by the end of the year. It has already sent the iSIM designs to its partners. Further, the ARM is planning to include a monthly fee for the devices it supports that will ultimately benefit carriers. The company aims to adopt the technology to trillion of IoT devices in the next 10 to 20 years.

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