eSIM and IoT – How Embedded SIM Technology is Transforming the Internet of Things in 2025

Max Pankratov
Max Pankratov01 May 2025
8 minutes to read

Share

Share

Yesim virtual SIM card for travelers

Get a 10% discount for your first purchase with the code

Imagine a world where everyday devices – from cars and healthcare gadgets to smart city systems – are connected seamlessly and securely. This is the power of the Internet of Things (IoT), a rapidly growing network that, by the end of the year, included over 16.6 billion connected devices. Experts predict this number will soar past 40 billion, driven by the need for smarter manufacturing, healthcare, transportation, and urban living.

But connecting all these devices isn’t easy, IoT devices rely on cellular connectivity, which requires a SIM card. Traditionally, these SIM cards had limitations—they were locked to specific network providers, hard to update remotely, and often lacked strong security features. That’s where eSIM technology comes in.

Join us as we explore how embedded SIM technology is revolutionizing the IoT landscape, making our connected world smarter, safer, and more efficient.

What is eSIM and How Does It Work in IoT?

IoT and ESIM

An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a tiny chip built into IoT devices that can be programmed remotely over the internet. Unlike traditional SIM cards that you have to physically insert or swap out, an eSIM is part of the device itself. This makes connecting IoT devices much easier, faster, and more flexible. Today, about a third of all cellular IoT modules have eSIMs built in. This shows how important eSIM technology is becoming for IoT devices. It helps ensure better security, easier management, and global connectivity.

How does it work? The eSIM contains a secure element, which helps keep the device safe from hacking. It also has software called a universal integrated circuit card (UICC) that allows it to be programmed wirelessly. With eSIM technology, IoT devices can switch between different network providers without needing to change any hardware. This is called remote provisioning, and it saves time and money, especially when deploying devices in many places around the world.

Why is eSIM important for IoT? Because many IoT devices need to work in different countries or hard-to-reach places. Traditional SIM cards are not good for this—they can be locked to one provider and are hard to replace remotely. eSIM for IoT devices solve this problem by allowing then to switch networks easily and securely, making them perfect for industrial IoT solutions, smart cities, and other big projects.

Why eSIM is a Game-Changer for IoT?

IoT and eSIM market overview

iotanalytics

More and more devices — from smart thermostats to connected cars — are going online every day. To keep up with this rapid growth, new technology is needed. An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is changing the way IoT devices connect and work. It is truly a game-changer for the Internet of Things.

  • Easier Device Connectivity. eSIM IoT devices can connect to networks without needing physical SIM cards. This makes IoT device connectivity simple and smooth, especially when devices are in hard-to-reach places.
  • Remote Provisioning. eSIM for IoT allows for remote activation and switching between network providers. No need to open devices or send them back to the factory. This saves time and money and makes managing large fleets of IoT devices much easier.
  • Global Reach. With eSIM and IoT, devices can easily switch between networks in different countries. This is perfect for industrial IoT solutions and global deployments, ensuring reliable connectivity everywhere.
  • Better Security. eSIMs include secure elements, which help protect IoT device security with eSIM. They make devices more tamper-proof and safe from hacking or data theft.
  • Flexible and Scalable. An eSIM module for IoT makes it easy to add new features or change networks. This flexibility helps businesses grow their IoT projects without extra hardware costs.
  • Cost Savings. Because eSIM and IoT service providers offer more options for network plans, companies can choose the most cost-effective solutions for their needs. Plus, the ability to switch providers easily reduces roaming and hardware costs.
  • Supporting Industrial IoT Solutions. eSIM technology is ideal for industrial IoT solutions that need reliable, secure, and long-term connectivity. It works well in tough environments and helps keep devices running smoothly.

eSIM is a game-changer for IoT because it makes device connectivity easier, more secure, and more flexible. As the IoT world continues to grow, the use of embedded SIM for IoT devices will become even more important for businesses looking to stay ahead.

eSIM vs traditional SIM for IoT – What’s the difference?

Traditionally, IoT devices relied on physical SIM cards to access cellular networks. But now, with the rise of eSIM technology, there’s a new option that offers many advantages. So, let’s check the differences between eSIM vs traditional SIM in IoT.

FeatureeSIM for IoTTraditional SIM for IoT
ManagementRemote over-the-air programmingManual SIM swapping
Network SwitchingEasy, without hardware changeRequires physical card replacement
DurabilityMore resistant, tamper-proofSusceptible to damage or loss
FlexibilityHighly flexible, supports roamingLess flexible, region-specific
Cost and DeploymentFaster, lower long-term costsSlower, more labor-intensive
SecurityEmbedded secure elementsDepends on physical card security settings

eSIM Modules for IoT – How They Work?

eSIM modules make it easy for devices to connect to cellular networks without needing a physical SIM card. This is a big step forward in how eSIM works in IoT, offering more flexibility and security for IoT device connectivity.

In IoT, the most common eSIM modules for IoT are embedded in the device hardware itself. These modules are designed to be small, durable, and ready for remote management. They are used in many applications, from smart meters to industrial IoT solutions, helping devices stay connected anywhere in the world.

The main eSIM and IoT specifications include support for different network standards like LTE-M, NB-IoT, and 5G. They have secure elements embedded inside, which protect the device and data. The eSIM IoT functionality also includes remote provisioning, allowing IoT and iot service providers to activate or change network profiles over the air. This makes managing large fleets of IoT devices much easier and more secure.

eSIM modules for IoT are compatible with many communication standards, including NB-IoT, LTE-M, and 5G. This means they can be used in a wide range of IoT applications, from simple sensors to high-speed industrial IoT solutions. The flexibility of eSIM and iot makes it possible to choose the best network for each device, ensuring reliable and global IoT connectivity.

eSIM modules for IoT are powerful tools that improve how IoT devices connect and work. They are used in many industries, support various standards, and help create smarter, more secure IoT solutions worldwide.

Leading eSIM IoT Providers

The best providers of eSIM IoT offer reliable connectivity, easy management, and support for various industries. We have gathered a quick comparison of some leading eSIM IoT providers, highlighting their strengths, weaknesses, and ideal use cases to help you make an informed decision.

ProviderStrengthsWeaknessesIdeal ForRating
YesimBest in eSIM for IoT, reliable global connectivity, easy remote management, excellent security featuresN/Businesses needing top-quality, seamless global IoT device connectivity5/★★★★★
SpenzaCost control, automation, real-time dataNot a carrier, newer in marketCost-sensitive, high-scale IoT deployments5/★★★★★
EseyeHardware integration, reliable connectivityLess flexible UI, higher costGlobal industrial and mission-critical IoT4/★★★★☆
GigsAPI-first, embedded data plansLess suited for industrial IoTApps, MVNOs, digital-first brands4/★★★★☆
SimetrySimple UI, pooled data plansLimited advanced featuresNorth American SMBs3/★★★☆☆
Velos IoTGlobal carrier deals, comprehensive SIM lifecycle managementEnterprise-level complexityMultinational IoT fleets and infrastructure3/★★★☆☆
1oTIndustry-specific solutions, seamless global connectivityComplex integration with existing systemsIoT companies needing reliable worldwide device connectivity3/★★★☆☆

Note: Yesim stands out as the best provider for IoT, especially for businesses looking for top-tier global connectivity and security.

Security and Challenges of Using eSIM in IoT

eSIM for IoT offers many great benefits, especially in making IoT networks more secure. An embedded sim for IoT helps protect data by storing security keys safely inside the device. This makes it harder for hackers to access or tamper with important information.

How eSIM Increases Security in IoT Networks

eSIM and IoT work together to improve security. With eSIM and IoT, devices can be securely connected to networks using built-in security features like embedded secure elements. This helps prevent unauthorized access and keeps data safe during IoT device connectivity.

Also, eSIM remote provisioning allows IoT and iot service providers to update security settings over the air, without needing to access the device physically. Even with all its benefits, eSIMs can face some risks. Hackers might try to intercept data or hack into the device. To protect against this, IoT enterprises should use strong encryption, keep software updated, and choose trusted IoT esim providers with high security standards. Also, using secure hardware in the eSIM module for iot helps prevent tampering and data theft.

How IoT Companies Can Use eSIM for IoT to Protect Data

IoT for security

IoT enterprises can use the eSIM and iot functionality to manage and secure thousands of devices easily. They can remotely activate, deactivate, or change network profiles using eSIM and iot remote provisioning.

This helps keep data protected and devices secure, especially in industrial IoT solutions and global IoT connectivity. By choosing the right eSIM IoT providers, companies can improve their IoT device security with eSIM and ensure their networks are safe from threats.

eSIM for IoT is a powerful tool to improve security and help IoT companies protect their data. By understanding the risks and using the right security measures, businesses can make the most of the benefits that eSIM and IoT provide.

Future of eSIM in IoT – What to Expect?

As technology advances, eSIM and IoT will work even better together. One big change will be the arrival of 5G. 5G technology will make IoT devices faster, more reliable, and able to connect in more places. This will help eSIM modules for IoT to grow and support more industrial IoT solutions and global IoT connectivity.

The number of connected devices will keep rising. More IoT devices, from smart homes to big factories, will use eSIM for IoT. This growth will make managing and connecting devices easier for IoT and IoT service providers. It will also improve IoT device security with eSIM, helping protect data and keep networks safe.

Another exciting development is the evolution of remote management. With better eSIM remote provisioning, IoT companies can update and control devices from anywhere. This makes it easier to keep devices secure and working well, especially in large or remote industrial IoT solutions.

In the future, new safety standards will be developed to make eSIM and IoT even safer. These standards will help protect data and improve how eSIM works in IoT, making it more secure and reliable.

Seamless mobile internet in 200+ countries –– at a cup of coffee price!
Take away!

Seamless mobile internet in 200+ countries –– at a cup of coffee price! Take away!

Take away!

Share

Share

FAQ

What is IoT?

IoT, or the Internet of Things, connects everyday devices to the internet, allowing them to communicate, share data, and work smarter—like smart homes, factories, and vehicles.

What is IoT eSIM?

An IoT eSIM is an embedded SIM inside IoT devices. It allows remote network management, making device connectivity easier, more secure, and suitable for global IoT solutions.

What is IoT on my phone?

IoT on your phone includes connected apps and devices, like smart watches or home assistants, that communicate over the internet to make life more convenient.

What is an IoT SIM?

An IoT SIM is a SIM card designed for IoT devices, providing cellular connectivity. It helps devices stay online anywhere, even in remote or industrial areas.

How to buy IoT eSIM?

Yesim website is a trusted place to buy IoT eSIMs, offering reliable, secure solutions for embedded IoT device connectivity worldwide.

We use cookies on our website to give you the best browsing experience. By clicking "Accept", you consent to the use of all cookies as outlined in our Privacy Policy.