This Position Paper, sponsored by Kigen, examines the concept of In-Factory Profile Provisioning as an emerging technology being used to streamline the process of embedding cellular SIM profiles into Internet of Things and other connected devices, reducing operational costs and improving performance.
In-Factory Profile Provisioning (IFPP) is a mechanism for the secure loading of mobile network SIM profiles during the manufacturing and/or order fulfilment process based on characteristics such as the device capabilities or the geographic location into which it is expected to be deployed. The use of IFPP removes the need to manually fit plastic SIM cards into each device and offers an alternative to in-field provisioning which may not be appropriate for many forms of device.
The benefits of IFPP can be categorised in terms of improving the in-bound and out-bound logistics associated with SIMs (including removing the need to maintain and manage a large inventory of plastic SIM cards), streamlining the process of applying the SIM profile (by removing the manual step of inserting a card), and reducing the power consumption associated with in-field provisioning.
In this report we explore the motivations for making use of IFPP to streamline supply chains for volume electronics manufacturers that are increasingly making use of cellular connectivity in their products. We then consider the wider concept of eSIM and remote SIM provisioning, of which IFPP is one variety, as well as considering the new GSMA standard for IFPP, SGP.41/42. The report goes on to consider the benefits of using IFPP, including reducing logistics and manufacturing complexity and power saving, as well as delving into four key IoT/connectivity verticals - smart metering, automotive, fixed-wireless access, and consumer electronics, to look at the ways in which IFPP will be valuable.
