“We’ve highlighted this concept of eSIM orchestration as one of the top ten issues in IoT for 2025.”
—Matt Hatton, Co-founder, Transforma Insights
In our recent Global IoT, Simplified webinar, Marcus Lindblom-Tornqvist of Aeris and Matt Hatton of Transforma Insights explored how unified eSIM deployments are transforming enterprise connectivity strategies and why enterprises must adapt now.
Global IoT deployments have long been hampered by hidden costs, operational delays, and fragmented connectivity strategies. New GSMA standards, SGP.31 and SGP.32, address these barriers head-on, unlocking new flexibility for large-scale IoT rollouts and improving operational agility.
“Connectivity has always been one of the trickiest components of global IoT deployments—and SGP.31/.32 directly address that pain point.”
—Matt Hatton, Co-founder, Transforma Insights
At Aeris, we see firsthand how SGP.32 is already reshaping enterprise deployments, giving businesses the tools to scale globally while maintaining local control and compliance.
What are SGP.31/.32?
Unlike traditional SIM cards, eSIM (embedded SIMs) are built directly into devices and can be provisioned remotely. The new SGP.31/.32 standards streamline remote provisioning and enabling localized connections tailored to IoT use cases.
- SGP.31 aapplies to how eSIM works on the device (i.e. device-side, profile lifecycle management).
- SGP.32 focuses on how eSIMs are remotely managed over-the-air (i.e. server-side provisioning systems and communication flows).
“SGP.32 makes remote SIM provisioning more usable across more devices—and it democratizes access to local connectivity.”
—Matt Hatton, Co-founder, Transforma Insights
Here are some examples of how eSIM technology offers advantages for IoT deployments:
- Simplified manufacturing: A single SKU can serve global markets, eliminating the complexity of regional SIM variants.
- Regulatory compliance: Remote provisioning supports compliance with local telecom requirements.
- Dynamic connectivity management: Enterprises can switch carriers remotely to optimize performance and costs.
The Rise of eSIM Orchestration
To manage the increased complexity of IoT connectivity, especially for large-scale eSIM deployments in the fragmented ecosystem, a new provider role has emerged: the eSIM Orchestrator. These platforms harmonize and unify the key features of eSIM deployments, making it easier to manage connectivity across multiple operators, ensuring seamless device operation regardless of geographical location.
To reduce the complexity, connectivity management platforms are evolving to provide visibility into inventory, network usage and to streamline profile handoffs across networks and borders. This aggregation enables more efficient operations and greater agility in managing connectivity services across the IoT fragmented ecosystem.
At Aeris, we go beyond unidimensional connectivity by providing eSIM Orchestration built into our connectivity management platform, giving enterprises access to the tools needed to simplify global deployments.
Shifting Dynamics in the IoT Ecosystem
The introduction of eSIM is driving significant change in the roles of traditional connectivity providers and MVNOs, who may need to adapt their business models to remain competitive. At the same time, eSIM demands greater cooperation among carriers, potentially opening the door to new partnerships, integrated offerings, and emerging market segments.
“eSIM orchestration introduces a new and separate role in the ecosystem—and with it, new opportunities for innovation.”
—Matt Hatton, Co-founder, Transforma Insights
This evolution is also giving rise to specialized players who focus on orchestration, provisioning, and lifecycle management. As the market matures, new business models and niche services are expected to flourish.
Enterprise Adoption and Strategic Considerations
Enterprises are beginning to prioritize new eSIM capabilities in RFPs, a clear signal that flexible, future-ready connectivity is now a business imperative. With eSIMs, large-scale global rollouts become easier to manage, and device fleets can remain adaptable to shifting regulatory and operational needs.
“We’re seeing more and more need to localize connectivity within a market—not just for performance, but to meet new compliance and critical infrastructure requirements.”
—Matt Hatton, Co-founder, Transforma Insights
However, eSIMs may not be a one-size-fits-all solution. Enterprises should assess their specific use cases, considering factors such as connectivity duration, regional variability, and the frequency with which they may need to update or change device carrier profiles, before committing to a full deployment strategy.
Looking Ahead: The Future of IoT Connectivity
As SGP.31/.32 standards-based systems are deployed by carriers over the next few years, adoption in IoT markets is expected to accelerate, positioning eSIMs as the dominant mode of IoT connectivity.
Still, challenges remain. These include up-front implementation costs, infrastructure readiness, and inertia among traditional telecom stakeholders. Enterprises should prepare now to navigate this transition smoothly.
“We expect SGP.32 to become the dominant remote SIM provisioning standard, and for eSIM to account for about 40% of all cellular IoT connections in the next few years.”
—Matt Hatton, Co-founder, Transforma Insights
Final Thoughts
The eSIM revolution marks a pivotal moment in the IoT landscape. It offers a smarter, more scalable way to manage connectivity. SGP.31/.32 simplifies global deployments, reduces complexity, and lays the groundwork for future innovation.
Now is the time for enterprises to definitely explore eSIM options and partnerships. Staying informed about evolving standards, orchestration tools, and market dynamics will ensure your IoT strategy is ready for what’s next.
Choosing the right eSIM partner matters as much as leveraging the technology itself. This was one of the key takeaways from the webinar. Aeris, proudly, partners with businesses to build critical IoT services. We offer innovative IoT solutions for both eSIM global connectivity and revolutionary new cybersecurity tailored to IoT deployments. Interested? Schedule a meeting with one of our IoT experts.
Watch the full webinar here.
