In our highly connected world, a SIM card can greatly affect a mobile experience. As technology continues to evolve, the rise of Multi-IMSI SIM cards has revolutionized the way we connect globally. While Single-IMSI SIM cards have served well in the past, the benefits of Multi-IMSI SIMs cannot be ignored.
This solution is also vital for any cellular IoT manufacturers with global deployments or mobile application plans. It guarantees that a device remains connected anywhere the customers use it, regardless of carrier coverage or roaming agreements.
In this blog post, we delve into why Multi-IMSI SIMs offer a superior solution for seamless communication and unparalleled convenience.
What is an IMSI?
It stands for International Mobile Subscriber Identity and is a 15-digit unique number assigned to every SIM's cellular network. The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has established the standard for this identification.
An IMSI number consists of two parts. The first one contains either 5 or 6 digits, following the North American or European standards respectively. It identifies the mobile network operator in a specific country where the user is subscribed. The second part is a unique identifier for the subscriber.
This unique identity is stored in the Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) inside mobile devices and is transmitted by the device to the associated network. When a mobile device is powered on, it provides its IMSI number to the corresponding cellular network to initiate a location update. A similar procedure takes place during a handover to another cell tower.
Each IMSI has a specified number of allowed network carriers, determined by the roaming agreements between a carrier and its network partners.
Benefits of Multi-IMSI solution
- Improved Coverage: Multi-IMSI SIMs offer unmatched global coverage, making them a compelling choice for users. They integrate multiple profiles from different networks into a single card, enabling seamless connectivity to local networks in different countries. By having multiple IMSI profiles, devices can connect to multiple networks worldwide. That ensures reliable coverage in any area, including those where a single network has limitations.
- Enhanced Network Resilience: Maintaining network reliability is crucial. Single-IMSI SIMs tied to one network can expose users to coverage gaps and service disruptions. In contrast, Multi-IMSI SIMs provide improved network resilience by automatically switching to alternative networks during signal issues or outages. This automatic transition ensures smooth and reliable connectivity, even in remote areas or during unexpected situations.
- Cost Efficiency and Flexibility: Multi-IMSI SIMs are a cost-effective solution. By leveraging competitive rates and local networks, they offer significant cost savings compared to traditional roaming charges. Additionally, these SIMs enable users to choose from various data plans and optimize their connectivity based on their specific needs. This flexibility helps them avoid excessive fees and enjoy affordable, customized mobile solutions.
- Simplified Device Management: A Multi-IMSI solution eliminates the need for swapping SIM cards. This solution simplifies device management by combining multiple connections into a single SIM card. This consolidation minimizes the risk of losing or damaging SIMs.
Besides, it makes it easier to handle calls, messages, and data across multiple networks using a single device. Multi-IMSI SIMs significantly reduce the hassle associated with managing various devices or contractual obligations. - Seamless Transition and User Experience: Multi-IMSI SIMs prioritize a seamless user experience by removing the need for manual network selection. These SIMs automatically detect the best available network and switch seamlessly without interrupting ongoing communications.
In some cases, a single IMSI can offer coverage from multiple operators in the same country. However, this is not common within the IMSI's "home network," which is the country where its main mobile network operator (MNO) operates. Most carriers do not provide national roaming, which means redundant coverage within the primary operator's home country is not typically available.
A Multi-IMSI solution allows devices to benefit from redundant coverage by accessing multiple lists of approved networks. If the first profile has no available networks, the technology automatically switches to another IMSI and attempts to connect to networks associated with the new MNO profile.
A good example, of this technology's benefit is IoT devices, like GPS trackers, which need to switch profiles for uninterrupted connectivity during cross-border travel. During a trip, a vehicle may need to switch between carriers and return to the original one. With a Multi-IMSI SIM card, the service provider handles these transitions seamlessly. No portal or MSISDN changes are necessary, and there are no additional costs for integrating or changing profiles.
Multi-IMSI SIM from POND IoT
POND provides enhanced network coverage. By having the ability to connect to multiple service providers, our SIM card improves the chances of finding a stable network signal in remote areas or regions where coverage may be limited. In situations where one network is weak or unavailable, our SIM card can automatically switch to an alternative network, providing smooth communication and access to mobile services.
Contact us for more information!