TechPression

Tag: eSim

  • MTN South Sudan breaks ground with first-ever eSIM launch

    MTN South Sudan breaks ground with first-ever eSIM launch

    MTN South Sudan officially launched eSIM technology on January 10, 2025, marking a significant advancement in the nation’s telecommunications sector. 

    This makes MTN the first operator in South Sudan to offer eSIMs, improving user ease and security.

    Read also: MTN Uganda secures $100 million debt financing from five banks for network expansion

    During a press conference with the National Communications Authority (NCA), CEO Monzer Ali stated, “Today marks another milestone in South Sudan’s telecommunications journey. 

    As MTN, we are proud to be the first operator in the country to launch eSIM technology. This is not just about innovation; it’s about simplifying connectivity and delivering convenience to our customers”.

    Benefits of eSIM technology

    The eSIM, or embedded SIM, eliminates the need for physical SIM cards, allowing users to activate mobile plans digitally. This technology streamlines switching network providers and lets consumers manage many lines on one device.

    NCA Director General Napoleon Adok Gai praised this initiative, emphasising its potential to enhance customer experiences while urging MTN to focus on user education and support.

    Read also: MTN Nigeria seeks to raise N50 billion in Series 15, 16 commercial papers

    The advent of eSIM technology is anticipated to promote inclusivity by enhancing the accessibility of compatible devices.

    Gai noted, “We are ready to assist MTN and other mobile operators in innovating and making eSIM-enabled smartphones available”. 

    The NCA’s commitment to supporting this transition highlights the collaborative effort needed to improve telecommunications in South Sudan.

    MTN’s upgrading does more than improve technology—it connects society.

    Ali remarked, “The eSIM will open up a world of possibilities and do away with the necessity for traditional SIM cards”.

  • FNB Connect embraces eSIM, offering faster activation and 100GB Free Data

    FNB Connect embraces eSIM, offering faster activation and 100GB Free Data

    FNB Connect has announced that it now allows embedded SIM cards (eSIMs) to be used with all its product lines for both retail and business clients.

    Since it takes less than three minutes to connect to a mobile network and there is no additional time required for the delivery of a physical SIM card, the bank said that eSIMs improve the digital experience for clients by accelerating the time between sign-up and activation.

    “We’ve seen an overwhelming number of our retail and commercial banking customers connect to the FNB app through eSIM-ready devices,” said Sashin Sookroo who is the CEO of FNB Connect. “The number of FNB customers with eSIM-enabled smartphones has grown by 169 percent in the past three years.”

    Sookroo said he expected the “numbers to grow further as eSIM-enabled devices become more readily available across more devices with more affordable price points.”

    Read also: Why eSIM adoption has been slow in Nigeria 

    Benefits of e-SIM

    Sookroo further stated that the company will give out 100GB monthly to qualifying customers over the next six months.

    “As we prepare to launch a number of exciting eSIM-based services, we are thrilled to announce that we are also giving qualifying customers more value on our free FNB Connect eSIMs with an extra 100GB free per month for six months.”

    Implementing eSIMs, according to FNB, will eliminate the requirement for physical SIM card manufacturing, storage, and delivery, which should eventually have a positive net environmental impact. Since eSIM removes the requirement for manufacturing, storing, and distributing physical SIM cards, FNB anticipates that its implementation will eventually have a net beneficial environmental impact.

    The eSIM allows FNB and its clients to lessen their carbon footprint because it does away with physical hardware.

    Sookroo further clarified that “In line with FNB’s aspiration to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2030 in our South African operations, we’re excited to see how this move will help us and our customers to minimise our environmental impact while reducing plastic waste.”

  • Why eSIM adoption has been slow in Nigeria 

    Why eSIM adoption has been slow in Nigeria 

    One of the primary reasons for the slow adoption of eSIM technology in Nigeria is the infrastructure challenges facing the country.

    Nigeria, like many other developing nations, still grapples with inadequate telecommunications infrastructure, particularly in rural areas. While eSIM technology promises greater convenience and flexibility for users, its implementation requires robust network coverage and reliable connectivity.

    However, many regions in Nigeria lack sufficient network infrastructure, hindering the widespread adoption of eSIMs. Without reliable network coverage, users may experience disruptions in service, making them reluctant to embrace eSIM technology.

    Moreover, the deployment of eSIMs necessitates collaboration between mobile network operators (MNOs) and device manufacturers to ensure compatibility and seamless integration. In Nigeria, where the telecommunications market is highly competitive and fragmented, achieving such cooperation can be challenging. MNOs may be reluctant to invest in eSIM infrastructure due to concerns about profitability and return on investment. Additionally, device manufacturers may prioritize markets with higher eSIM adoption rates, further delaying the introduction of eSIM-enabled devices in Nigeria.

    Read also: Google Sets To Switch from Sim Card to eSim with Android 13

    Regulatory Hurdles

    Another significant factor impeding the adoption of eSIM technology in Nigeria is the regulatory landscape. The Nigerian telecommunications sector is subject to strict regulatory oversight by government agencies such as the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). While regulatory measures are intended to promote fair competition and protect consumer interests, they can also create barriers to innovation and market entry.

    In the case of eSIMs, regulatory hurdles may arise from concerns about security, interoperability, and consumer protection. Government agencies may impose stringent requirements on MNOs and device manufacturers regarding the deployment and operation of eSIM technology. Compliance with these regulations can be time-consuming and costly, deterring stakeholders from investing in eSIM infrastructure and services.

    Furthermore, regulatory uncertainty may discourage investment in eSIM technology, as companies may be unsure about the long-term viability of their initiatives. Without clear guidelines and frameworks governing the use of eSIMs, businesses may hesitate to commit resources to their development and implementation.

    As a result, Nigeria’s regulatory environment may act as a deterrent to eSIM adoption, delaying its proliferation in the country.

    Consumer Awareness and Education

    A lack of consumer awareness and education represents another barrier to the widespread adoption of eSIM technology in Nigeria. Many consumers may be unfamiliar with the benefits and capabilities of eSIMs, viewing them as unnecessary or complex. Moreover, misconceptions and misinformation about eSIMs may contribute to apprehension and reluctance among potential users.

    To overcome this challenge, stakeholders must engage in comprehensive educational initiatives to inform consumers about the advantages of eSIM technology. This includes highlighting features such as remote provisioning, multi-device connectivity, and enhanced security. By raising awareness and addressing common misconceptions, businesses can help dispel doubts and build confidence in eSIMs among Nigerian consumers.

    Additionally, efforts to promote eSIM adoption should focus on enhancing digital literacy and accessibility. This involves providing clear and accessible information about eSIMs through various channels, including online resources, mobile apps, and customer support services. By empowering consumers with knowledge and resources, businesses can encourage greater acceptance and uptake of eSIM technology in Nigeria.

    In conclusion, the slow adoption of eSIM technology in Nigeria can be attributed to infrastructure challenges, regulatory hurdles, and a lack of consumer awareness and education. Addressing these barriers will require collaboration between industry stakeholders, government agencies, and consumer advocacy groups to promote investment, develop appropriate regulations, and educate the public about the benefits of eSIMs. By overcoming these challenges, Nigeria can unlock the full potential of eSIM technology and pave the way for a more connected and digitally-enabled future.

  • The impact of eSIM on banking

    The impact of eSIM on banking

    Despite technological developments that have led us to where we are now in terms of payments, there are many more interesting and innovative technologies that may revolutionize our lives in the future. E-SIMs are cool gadgets. eSIM technology, launched in April 2019, is improving. More people are using mobile banking.

    In the past, if you want your account information from another device or place, you had to utilize your mobile device and remember the pin number. eSIMs make it easy to decide between personal and professional life.

    Read also: Google: Enterprise Application Can Benefit From Android 13

    eSIM advances mobile banking technology

    An eSIM allows users to switch device carriers without a physical SIM card, eliminating the need to carry several devices with different data plans. It offers greater security, quicker connection rates, and tighter administration than magnetic and SIM cards. As more banks and financial institutions provide mobile services, eSIM technology may become more popular.

    Digital, internet-based SIM cards are used to make and receive calls, text messages, and data connections.

    Its impact on bank payments

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    eSIM provides online mobile banking, payments, and transactions for all bank clients. The eSIM standardization process eliminates all hurdles for financial services, making it simpler to create products and services, streamline processes, and accelerate growth. And it is useful to authenticate e-wallets and mobile wallets.

    These can be connected to most smartphones and other devices, enabling users to save and utilize credentials remotely, especially for paperless banking. And it allows companies and consumers to conduct safe online transactions.

    eSIM makes mobile phones and tablets more secure. It lets the user save personal identity information on the device so that if it is lost, damaged, or stolen, credit card numbers and bank account data cannot be accessed. eSIM lets customers set preferred devices, so data may only be accessible one at a time.

    People won’t miss midday transactions. As technology improves, eSIMs financial features will be the new standard for security.

    Google Sets To Switch from Sim Card to eSim with Android 13

    This new innovation will allow banking with a single card inserted into a terminal. This will reduce commissions and debit card costs when loading an NFC chip. We’ll be able to utilize smartphones as payment devices (through apps), so users won’t need to carry cash or wallets as paper bills and credit/debit cards no longer exist. It also gives banking institutions a powerful remittance alternative for consumers who prefer transferring money online for security, time restrictions, or convenience.

    More so, it will unleash the capabilities of current smartphones. It’s available from anywhere, making banking more convenient. Millennials will find it very helpful.

  • Google Sets To Switch from Sim Card to eSim with Android 13

    Google Sets To Switch from Sim Card to eSim with Android 13

    eSim is here to stay with Google’s move to adopt the same from Android 13. Since the early 1980s, the SIM card has served as a communications device and it has gained wider use, but this day eSIMs are becoming increasingly popular, and Google wants users to migrate to using new improvised SIMs. As a result, Google is testing a new feature in Android 13 Developer to help users avoid using traditional SIM card slots.

    Today, we are all familiar with Subscribers Identity Module cards, and many of us have one of our own. However, embedded SIMs were released in 2020, and most of us do not use them since eSIMs have several limitations, such as the ability to only utilize one SIM profile at a time.

    Breaking the eSIM Limitation

    According to the most recent rev Disclosure from Esper’s Mishaal Rahman, Google is working on implementing a feature known as Multiple Enabled Profiles (MEP) in Android 13 that would enable users to have multiple SIM profiles in a single eSIM.

    Google teams were able to go around these restrictions by creating “several activated accounts,” as they put it. It will be possible to activate multiple SIM profiles on a single eSIM as a result of the varied profiles available. It will be able to connect to a variety of different packages provided by various telecommunications companies using a single integrated card, to put it another way.

     

    Read Also: Mobile money’s value plummets by GH10 billion as the e-levy implementation date approaches.

     

    It should be noted that Apple currently permits the use of two eSIMs for two or more cell plans on the iPhone 13. As a result of these circumstances, it is speculated that Apple intends to completely phase out the SIM drawer in the next years. With the arrival of this capability to Android 13, it seems that the future of regular SIM cards is dwindling in the distance.

    When Will Andriod 13 be launched?

    In 2020, Google received a patent for the technique known as Multiple Enabled Profiles. In addition, Google has tested MEP support on Pixel hardware and has provided new APIs to handle eSIM profiles in Android 13. According to the report, they have been testing and preparing this functionality for quite some time.

     

    Read Also : Solartaxi launches an electric car ride-hailing app in Ghana.

     

    To replace SIM cards with electronic SIM cards in the future may out to be a great advancement. This functionality will be included in Android version 13. Unfortunately, there is no official release date for Android 13, although it is expected to be released later this year.

    What to know about the First SIM Card

    The first sim card was invented and manufactured in Munich, by smart-card maker Giesecke and Devrient in 1991. It revolutionized the industry. At launch, two versions of the sim were introduced – one the size of a credit card and one mini version.

    There have been several revisions and modifications, each one reducing the size of the original. As the GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) network has evolved, so has this development.