Kcell JSC is the first mobile operator in Kazakhstan to introduce the innovative eSIM technology on its network in test mode.

eSIM (Embedded SIM) is a virtual SIM card profile that is embedded in the mobile device to improve quality and speed up the customer service process as well as expand the capabilities of a mobile device for their owners. With eSIM technology, there is no longer a need to purchase dual-SIM smartphones.

Kcell offers its customers to test the new solution.

As part of the pilot launch, each customer whose mobile device supports eSIM can contact the Kcell Store to get a free eSIM. This also applies to customers who wish to purchase the latest iPhone which already support this technology.

Customers can at any time connect to Kcell and activ services provided only they have an Internet connection. The use of eSIM is going to be highly appreciated by those who, in addition to a private number, need a business number for their, which means there is no need to use two smartphones. The technology is promising for IoT devices - trackers, laptops, components of the so-called 'smart homes' (alarms, sensors, surveillance cameras, household appliances, etc.).

The use of eSIM is also great in terms of security - in case of a theft, there will be no way to use it unless the eSIM account is deleted.

In terms of use, eSIM is no different from a regular SIM card, however, in future users will be able to switch providers without a need to physically visit their service stores. This technology also allows using an additional SIM card in eSIM devices.

It is expected that over time customers will no longer need to visit physical mobile stores as they will be able to activate and manager services through their My Kcell and My activ mobile applications.

Hikmatulla Nasritdinhodjaev, Consumer Department Director:

'Kcell supports the introduction of new technologies for its customers, especially given that mobile operators in many countries have already implemented this technology. Other network customers will have a chance, without switching networks, to try the advantages of Kcell and activ services. This technology not only means convenience for our customers, but also a qualitative impetus for the development of the entire industry supported by 5G network capabilities, such as development of smart homes, cities, and the digitalization of industry.

The use of the eSIM technology is currently limited only to the flagship smartphones. However, I believe, that, just like 4G launch, manufacturers will quickly begin to use it in all their devices, regardless of device category. Currently, Kcell and Activ eSIM networks can support about 200 thousand devices, and this number is growing rapidly every year. '

Askar Yeserkegenov, Chief Technical Officer:

'eSIM gives us a lot of economic advantages over a physical SIM. It is important to note that the eSIM technology that we implemented on our network ensures the security and integrity of data transmission during subscriber identification. Currently, the number of 'electronic' SIM-cards is limited, however the processes that we have in place will allow us to satisfy the demand in short period of time and avoid shortage. '

The founder of the technology, Apple, went public about eSIM only in September 2018, during the presentation of its iPhone XS line which supports M2M (Machine to Machine) and Remote Provisioning data transfer. There is practically no doubt that very soon it will become the standard for all Apple and Samsung flagship smartphones, and a little later - for other brands. Today, this service is already provided in 30 countries and Kazakhstan will not be an exception.

Since Apple has long been an official partner of Kcell JSC, the original technology is used in the eSIM production. Kcell decided to issue eSIMs considering the active development of the Internet of Things. It was previously estimated that over the next few years, IoT devices will become the largest category of network connections, overtaking even mobile phones.

Although, so far, the reviews concerned only smartphones, in fact, completely different devices will benefit greatly from eSIM. The smartphones, of course, are not excluded from this list, being the basis of how we 'activate' these devices and manage them.

In the future, Kcell plans to introduce the innovative technology and other gadgets, such as Smart Watch.

eSIM not only ensures the fully functional work of connected devices, but also allows creating new categories of devices with less restrictions.

(C) 2019 Electronic News Publishing, source ENP Newswire