Smart SIM initiative underway

THE GSM ASSOCIATION (GSMA) has wrapped up the first phase of its Smart SIM initiative, designed to let the SIM store information about services, data, applications and settings.

The first phase regards compatibility and interoperability between mobile handsets and SIMs to ensure that transfers are easy no matter what type of device the user switches to.

"Use of Smart SIM technology will mean that operators will be able to deliver a variety of capabilities without having to manage extensive and complex commercial relationships or a mix of handset, operating system and chipset technologies," said Alex Sinclair, chief technology officer and chief strategy officer at the GSMA.

"With the backing of some of the world's largest operators, OEMs and software developers, the mobile industry will address customer demand for the simplicity and transferability of user device settings, applications and data, from handset to handset."

The completion of the first phase of the project was down to the combined efforts of several mobile operators, SIM vendors, device manufacturers and software developers.

"This first phase addresses some of the key questions around use cases and implementation," said Frederic Dufal, director of Device Developments & Projects, Orange.

"However, in order for customers to really benefit from the true potential of interoperable SIM enabled services such as improved personal data storage and content distribution, we need a stronger commitment from all players in the mobile ecosystem. Together we have the opportunity to greatly simplify the customer's user experience, and with the launch of the three white papers, the Smart SIM initiative takes a positive step forward to achieving this goal."

According to the GSMA, the next step is to start making a noise about the technology and global trials of Smart SIM services are set to kick off next year.

As part of the first phase, the GSMA has written up three whitepapers on the business opportunities, technical details and use cases of Smart SIMs, which are available for download here. µ