How 1GLOBAL leads the next wave of Global Connectivity

The latest figures from Counterpoint Research have shown that more than one billion eSIM -capable devices (eUICC and iUICC-based) have been shipped cumulatively to date.   

Meteoric rise

To comprehend just how quickly eSIM usage is growing, it is perhaps useful to remind ourselves that Apple only launched its first eSIM enabled iPhone in September 2018, and was the first tech giant to do so. This had widespread influence on the consumer device market, with eSIM adoption snowballing with all major manufacturers ever since . 

The rate shows no sign of abating. In fact, eSIM uptake is set to grow across almost every of connected device type over the next decade, expanding well beyond the realm of consumer devices and into just about every industry that requires a cellular connection.  

At 1GLOBAL we provisioned our very first eSIM in September 2018 and by 2021 we surpassed a total of 10 million activations. Our tech is helping over 500,000 new eSIM devices connect each and every month.   

It’s also worth noting that eSIM technology will likely see further surges in uptake. As the global pandemic shocked all our lives, businesses and consumers have never been more focused on reliable connectivity that can adapt to our changing circumstances and be easily managed without needing to leave the house. 

Overtaking incumbents 

In terms of who is leading the eSIM charge, Counterpoint Research has named some names and categories. In the telco industry, eSIM is one area that's not dominated by household names. It’s a sector that is burgeoning off the efforts of challengers. 

1GLOBAL is in the top three global eSIM management players, regarded as the most complete end-to-end eSIM solution with the best platform in the industry. With us, you get a complete end-to-end solution: eSIM software and hardware, Remote SIM Provisioning, an Entitlements Server and global connectivity. We're evidence that you don’t need a decades-long legacy to do eSIMs right. Quite the opposite, in fact.   

Shifting attitudes 

Our own research in partnership with Mobile World Live has shown that 90% of operators plan to offer eSIMs by 2025, showing how much they've revised their previously skeptical stance. They have a lot to contend with, and time is of the essence. The GSMA has stated that 89% of operators believe eSIM-only smartphones will be prevalent before 2025. 

Those leading the eSIM boom are the ones who have adopted a new way of thinking, bringing openness, speed and efficiency to the forefront. 1GLOBAL went from a small mobile network start-up to third in the market in under two years. How? By acknowledging that eSIM can only reach its true potential when backed by the masses, from OEMs to MNOs and everyone inbetween. This means opening up and challenging the status quo. 

Future-proofing the industry

While it’s fantastic to be commended as one of the three top global players in the eSIM space, it’s equally important that we rally others to do the same by enabling device manufacturers, SIM vendors, network operators and a new breed of connectivity management players to bring eSIM to market. We aren’t interested in building silos or locking customers in. We champion creating new business models and interoperability with companies across the mobile ecosystem. 

As 5G became the new normal, our research with Mobile World Live showed that 50% of the industry believes that eSIM technology will be 'vital' in this new era of connectivity.

It’s reassuring to see that more and more people around the world can enjoy the benefits of eSIM in their devices and we’re thrilled to be at the forefront of the eSIM revolution alongside competitors and partners alike. We look forward to the continued rise of eSIM availability and adoption and encourage the entire industry to join us in bringing it to life.