Evolution of SIM provisioning towards a flexible MCIM provisioning in M2M vertical industries

The fast growing market for wireless Machine-to-Machine (M2M) communication services is facing specific challenges which do not exist comparably in the traditional cellular subscriber market. The challenges are emerging around the changed ecosystem and value chain and dealing with different traffic and load profiles in the network. The significantly reduced ARPDs (average revenue per device) are calling for increased operational efficiency and flexibility and tangible cost reductions. With regard to the requirements arising in this context this paper focuses on new concepts for SIM management (SIM: Subscriber Identity Module) in the M2M domain from a subscription management perspective in order to develop an economic MCIM provisioning process (MCIM: M2M communication identity module). Three technical concepts were addressed and described with a look on the critical features. Essential items are the circle of trust, the grade of flexibility, the complexity of the solution and the impact on security. A further evolution of the Embedded UICC (Universal Integrated Circuit Card) proposal currently handled in standardization is presented and discussed, which gives the device owner and the M2M service provider a more active role and responsibility in the process. This approach enables full flexibility for change of operator and subscription and requires less administrative effort from MNOs (Mobile Network Operators), in particular for devices currently not requiring an active subscription. The respective business processes for MCIM management are presented as blueprints and discussed with regard to the lifecycle phases. There is a need for an increased grade of automation and integration of these workflows going beyond the boundaries of a particular stakeholder participating in the value net.