M1 eSIM and 5G

[beaugold]

I realised recently that in order to get 5G service on M1 I would have to get them to issue a 5G compatible SIM card. Their website has stated that 5G service is not compatible with eSIM.

Does anybody know why this is the case?

 

[lohsenglte]

Authentication and encryption.
https://www.hardwarezone.com.sg/tec...tandalone-sim-cards-telco-subscribers-network

 

[beaugold]

Authentication and encryption.

Ah interesting! Does that spell the end of eSIM in the future?

 

[lohsenglte]

Ah interesting! Does that spell the end of eSIM in the future?

Won't say it's the end.
It's just that incumbents will use whatever methods possible to deter use of eSIM for 5GNR SA.

But if manufacturer actually forces eSIM only devices, they would have to adapt, or lose out immediately.

 

[sansanjikikut]

Is it possible for esim to be 5g enabled in future? Technical perspective

 

[007Mi6]

Is it possible for esim to be 5g enabled in future? Technical perspective

Answer is Yes

https://www.thalesgroup.com/en/grou...ers-thales-worlds-first-5g-sa-compatible-esim
IDEMIA also has 5G eSIM

https://www.idemia.com/esim-solutions

 

[sansanjikikut]

Hope it comes to Sg market soon. Tired of NSA confusion to misled the consumer

 

[firesong]

Is it possible for esim to be 5g enabled in future? Technical perspective

Just additional info.

Looking to Singtel Optus in Australia,
https://www.optus.com.au/for-you/support/answer?id=20083

The Optus 5G network is available in selected areas on 5G capable phones, with an eSIM or physical SIM.

So yes to support what @lohsenglte said above, it's not that it cannot be done. Rather, the telcos don't want to do it to create some kind of artificial market segmentation. Also, consumers know it's ridiculous to charge for eSIM QR codes that can be emailed, whereas a physical SIM card more easily justifies a $38 fee.

 

[sansanjikikut]

well said, so much for telco wanting to save the planet

 

[lohsenglte]

Is it possible for esim to be 5g enabled in future? Technical perspective

Technical perspective, 5GNR SA eSIM is already operational in different countries.

Yes enhanced security eSIM might mean not all devices can do so, but it doesn't mean none of the devices can do so.

If the eSIM-only iPhone is true, and it's global rollout (except mainland China / Hong Kong), no operators have any excuses to avoid eSIM rollout, unless they want to lose out on relatively large portion of customer base going forward.

Whitelist-based approach is recommended if eSIM security is of concern. Not just ban all.