Dubai mobile solutions provider to produce new SIM to help operators move into IoT
Workz Group, the Dubai-based mobile solutions and serialization software specialist has announced plans to become the region’s first eSIM manufacturer by producing a specialized eSIM card for mobile network operators from its Dubai production facility. New embedded SIM (eSIM) technology is expected to drive widespread adoption of IoT in business and consumer smart devices by allowing over-the-air updates or reprogramming of software, otherwise known as remote provisioning, and providing end-users access to multiple network providers without physically changing the SIM card. Workz has especially developed a ‘first-phase’, removable version of the technology and testing capabilities to enable telecom operators to quickly establish their foothold in the IoT market and facilitate their transition to new IoT technologies and business models.
The Workz removable eSIM takes the same shape of a traditional (UICC) SIM card so it can operate in current market devices but with the advanced functionality of the new embedded SIM. The SIM can be fitted into any phone as it offers the versatility of the three SIM form factors (4FF, 3FF, and 2FF) in one card that can be pushed out and replugged as required. The SIMs are designed in compliance with the global regulatory GSMA standards to guarantee their interoperability and integration with both current and future devices. Workz is also offering local testbed facilities to allow clients to quickly and comprehensively verify their proof of concepts before market launch.
This agreement is considered by both Workz and Simulity as an extension of services and a further strengthening of their relationship as both companies have been in partnership since 2010, working together on a range of UICC SIM services for mobile network operators.
Like many, we’re immensely excited by the potential of embedded SIM technology. Being as close to mobile network operators as we are, we recognise the magnitude of the task when it comes to IoT migration and turning potential into revenue. We hope the introduction of our removable hybrid eSIM will allow them to easily make that crucial first step into IoT so they can already start to enjoy increased revenues through the development of multiple-device subscription packages for their consumers and partnership agreements with other service providers.
Whether it’s as an embedded or removable element, we are gearing up for IoT and eSIM technology in a big way. Last month, we finalised a VAR agreement to provide regional commercial and technical support for eSIM operating software. The deal was made with Simulity Labs, recently acquired by global technology leader Arm, which gives us the support of a key international IoT player. In addition, this month we launched our sandbox capabilities so clients can locally test their proof of concepts under an accelerated development model to achieve rapid deployment to market ahead of their competitors. Our new removable eSIM is designed to ensure mobile network operators can realize their IoT potential by establishing new business models and their position as market leaders from the get-go.
Brad Taylor, CEO, Workz Group
Published in: CommsMEA | Telecom Paper | Trade Arabia
