Study Shows Nine Billion eSIM Devices Due in ‘Hypergrowth’

Counterpoint Research projects that the market for cellular devices with embedded SIMs (eSIMS) will experience exponential growth, reaching nine billion units by 2030. This surge is expected to account for nearly 70% of all shipped cellular-based devices, including smartphones and IoT devices. The market is forecast to grow at a compound annual rate of 22% through the remainder of the decade. 

Smartphone driven 

This projection includes various new SIM technologies, including eSIM (eUICC), iSIM (iUICC), nuSIM, and Soft SIM. The installed base of eSIM/iSIM consumer devices is estimated to reach 2.5 billion units by 2030, primarily driven by smartphones. The release of the eSIM-only iPhone for the American market in 2022 is identified as a catalyst for this rapid growth, with more OEMs launching eSIM devices. 

Changing paradigm  

While smartphones currently lead in eSIM adoption, the technology is expected to greatly benefit other connected devices such as cars, gateways, routers, and drones, where physical SIMs can be challenging to manage. With over 400 operators globally supporting eSIM services, the technology is poised for even more widespread adoption. Notably, eSIM-capable devices are projected to grow at the fastest rate, with shipments rising at a rate of 160% between 2024 and 2030. 

Segment diversification 

Industry players are preparing to expand eSIM adoption beyond flagship devices into mid-tier segments and use cases like travel and roaming are expected to further drive short-term adoption. The potential of the technology to enhance device efficiency by reducing costs, size, and complexity is also highlighted, making it ideal for a wide range of IoT applications. 

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