What is a 5G SIM?
The SIM / eSIM is the only platform which can be used to secure 5G network access according to 3GPP – the 5G standardisation body.
Trusted Connectivity Alliance first defined the Recommended 5G SIM in December 2018 to outline which technical features of SIM / eSIM technology address the challenges mobile operators face, beyond network access, when migrating from 4G to 5G.
Subsequently, Trusted Connectivity Alliance enhanced the Recommended 5G SIM to align with new use cases introduced by 3GPP’s Release 16 for Phase 2 5G deployments. The Recommended 5G SIM has now been updated to align with new features defined in 3GPP Release 17.
The growing importance of the 5G SIM / eSIM in the 5G ecosystem is reflected by member market data, which has demonstrated significant and sustained growth in 5G SIM shipments. In 2022, Trusted Connectivity Alliance estimates that total deployments of the Recommended 5G SIM / eSIM in 5G networks grew by 77% to 242 million units.
What are the Benefits of 5G SIM Technology?
Advanced Security and Privacy
The Recommended 5G SIM incorporates various advanced features to promote the highest levels of security and user privacy.
Optimised Functionality and Performance
The Recommended 5G SIM helps mobile operators maximise investment in core infrastructure and unlock value-added services across new use cases, helping to unlock the full potential of 5G networks.
Globally Interoperable and Flexible
The Recommended 5G SIM is flexible to support various use-cases and network configurations. It is also fully backwards compatible.
Related Educational Resources
Publications
Trusted Connectivity Alliance: H1 2022 Technical Update
June 28, 2022
This technical update provides insight into the activities and roadmap for TCA’s working groups, demonstrating how they are shaping the future of trusted connectivity delivering trust, security and functionality for the IoT age.
Publications
Recommended 5G SIM Technical Definition: Enhanced for 3GPP Release 17
December 14, 2022
TCA’s Recommended 5G SIM helps MNOs maximise investments in core 5G network infrastructure by selecting the right choice of SIM technology at 5G launch. This enhanced definition includes updates to help MNOs realise the latest benefits and opportunities offered by 3GPPP Release 17 service architecture, with the highest levels of security, privacy and functionality.
Presentations & Infographics
Presentation: Recommended 5G SIM for 3GPP Release 17
Download TCA’s presentation to learn about the latest updates to the TCA ‘Recommended 5G SIM’ technical definition that will help operators realise the latest benefits and opportunities offered by 5G Release 17 service architecture, with the highest levels of security, privacy and functionality.