Streamlining Test Automation with eSIM Technology
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In the fast-paced world of telecommunications and testing, SEGRON is committed to ensuring that we are always at the cutting edge of technology. That is why eSIM support plays a significant role in the field of test automation to simulate various subscriber profiles in many different test locations.
Bridging the Gap: The eSIM Revolution
The Shift from Physical SIMs to eSIMs
Traditionally, testing relied on physical SIM cards, but their limitations were all too familiar. They are costly to procure, maintain, and susceptible to hardware failures, leading to testing downtime. This is where eSIMs, or embedded SIMs, come into play. eSIMs eliminate the need for physical cards. Instead, they depend on digital profiles that can be effortlessly downloaded onto your testing devices. This transition presents a multitude of advantages, notably in cost-efficiency.
A major advantage of the eSIM over the conventional SIM card is the ability to change the SIM profile – especially the operator contract – remotely without having to change the eSIM itself. This is extremely important for the testing with different subscriber profiles as device manufacturers or communication service providers can store several operator profiles on a device and switch between them remotely – even if only one profile can be used at a time.
The Motivation Behind eSIM Integration
What motivates this transition is not just a simple change in SIM cards. It is a comprehensive shift in how connectivity is managed. Here is why this shift is a game-changer for our customers:
- Local eSIM Multiplexing
Our local eSIM multiplexing approach empowers our customers to take control of eSIM profiles stored in the eSIM chip on a device. The activation of the desired eSIM profile is controlled by the test cases.
On Android devices we can switch between 6 eSIM profiles, and on iOS ones between 8. The eSIM profiles stay on the device and are activated and deactived per test, hence we talk about local eSIM multiplexing.
- Central eSIM Multiplexing
With our central eSIM multiplexing approach we enable the switch of eSIM profiles between different devices. The SM-DP+ Platforms are building the Basis for that as they allow the download of an eSIM profile on a dedicated device per test. Once finished the eSIM is released and can easily be migrated to another smartphone anytime in a very short time. The eSIM profile migration to another smartphone is fast, efficient, and without the need for rebooting. This method streamlines the SIM Multiplexing setup, making it more agile, adaptable, and secure.
Advantages
The transition to eSIMs reduces hardware costs significantly. Unlike physical SIM cards that require managing multiple cards for various devices, eSIMs enable you to streamline your testing setup using a single digital profile that can be deployed across multiple devices. This results in substantial savings in both capital expenditure (CAPEX) and operational costs (OPEX) as expensive and complex hardware like a SIM Array is not needed anymore or a large number of mobile devices (device farm) can be reduced to a handful of devices without affecting testing capabilities.
Increased Reliability
Hardware failures can be a headache for testers. Physical SIM cards are prone to such failures, disrupting testing processes and causing delays. With eSIMs, the risk of hardware-related issues is minimized, as there are no physical components to fail. This means enhanced reliability and uninterrupted testing.
Versatility
One of the standout advantages of eSIMs is their versatility. With eSIMs, communication service providers can test a wide range of devices using a single eSIM profile. This adaptability streamlines the testing process, allowing them to cover more ground with fewer resources. Whether testing on smartphones or IoT (Internet of Things) devices is required, eSIMs offer a seamless solution for all possible testing requirements.
The Promise of the Future: GSMA Intelligence Report
The future of eSIMs in general is incredibly promising. According to the latest GSMA Intelligence report, a staggering 98% of operators plan to offer eSIM services by 2025. This indicates a massive shift toward widespread eSIM adoption, which will undoubtedly reshape the way we interact with mobile devices.
In conclusion, eSIM technology represents more than just a change in physical cards. It is about revolutionizing how connectivity is managed in the world of telecommunication and in consequence also test automation. SEGRON provides advanced solutions that empower our customers to embrace eSIM technology which helps them to transform the testing processes for the better.
If you are eager to explore how eSIM multiplexing can benefit your organization, please get in touch with our team. Stay tuned for more updates and insights from SEGRON on our LinkedIn page.
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Michael Sedlacek
Michael has a long history in the telecoms industry and served many international projects as
Senior Network Engineering Expert and Integration Consultant, which gave him profound insights
and experience in mobile technology and its requirements before starting up SEGRON Test Automation Solutions.
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