nuSIM – integrated SIM technology enables a new generation of IoT devices [video]

By creating opportunities across the Internet of Things (IoT) value chain, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. is enabling customers to harness technologies that digitally transform their businesses. And this evolution — happening in logistics, retail, manufacturing, utilities and more — is driving the growth of the Connected Intelligent Edge.

Our IoT technology helps connect virtually everything, using a cutting-edge combination of:

• Connectivity, from Bluetooth to 5G;
• Low power, high-performance computing;
• and Edge AI solutions. 

By connecting previously unconnected things, our customers can improve decision making based on real-time data and analysis. With over 13,000 IoT customers to date, we have been working closely with industry leaders to identify new opportunities, innovate technology solutions, and drive standards that benefit the entire ecosystem. At this year’s Digital X event in Cologne, Germany, we joined Deutsche Telekom, Quectel, Redtea Mobile, and Zolitron to discuss the latest development in nuSIM — the integrated SIM for IoT.

Quectel announced their BG95-M3 LTE module is now available with integrated nuSIM. The module is based on Qualcomm 9205 LTE modem, a global multi-mode single chipset connectivity solution, purpose built to support reliable and optimized cellular connectivity for IoT applications such as asset trackers, smart city sensors and smart meters, and many others where cost and energy efficiency are of major importance.

Quectel, supported by Deutsche Telekom and Qualcomm Technologies, is the first to launch a commercial module with the nuSIM integration. Redtea Mobile delivered the nuSIM operating system (nuSIM OS) for the module. It has been certified by a dedicated evaluation scheme driven by TÜViT. Zolitron, a smart waste disposal company and the first customer of this solution, has developed a sensor to detect the capacity level of a glass or used clothes container based on vibrations. Businesses can use this data to automate processes and improve efficiencies.

What is nuSIM?

nuSIM is an open initiative established by Deutsche Telekom and supported by IoT industry leaders to enable the SIM profile to be integrated into the chipset. While some other forms of iSIM are designed for high-end devices such as smartphones, nuSIM is the simplified and ideal solution for ultra-low power, wide area connectivity, and small form factor IoT devices. Pioneered by Deutsche Telekom, the initiative is open to other operators and suppliers in the IoT ecosystem. Qualcomm Technologies was one of the first to support this initiative and usher in a new era of smart connected devices.

nuSIM removes the need for a separate SIM component, offering four key benefits:

1. Cost savings – form factor size can be reduced, decreasing the overall materials cost
2. Reduced power consumption – overall battery efficiency can be improved, and device lifetime can be extended
3. Increased robustness – greater resilience against extended temperature ranges and external industrial factors
4. Digital – a fully digital and streamlined SIM provisioning process, utilizing existing eSIM infrastructure 

How can nuSIM benefit your business?

The solution launched by Quectel can simplify the design, creation, and global deployment of devices by offering an out-of-the-box connectivity solution for NB-IoT networks. The integrated module targets devices which transfer simple and regular amounts of data every day. These use cases include smart metering, buildings, lighting, asset tracking, and much more. The following examples illustrate the operational, time, and cost efficiencies that can be harnessed by businesses that deploy IoT technology.

• Smart Cities – sensors can be added to parking lots to detect whether car spaces are occupied and provide updates on the capacity of the site at any one given time.
• Logistics – businesses can identify where packages can be found in warehouses, decreasing the time to find and load materials into transit vehicles.
• Industry 4.0 – equipment can be monitored to ensure temperature ranges do not exceed limits and fix issues before they arise. 

Digital transformation starts with Qualcomm

Qualcomm Technologies is solving complex problems and delivering smart solutions to connect the unconnected and drive the global digital transformation of industries with IoT ecosystem members.

Qualcomm 9205 LTE Modem is a product of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries.