
eSIM Technology and Blockchain Create New Markets
The eSIM is essentially software that holds the same information as a regular SIM, but on a digital module instead of a physical chip. Apple already deploys it in its Apple Watch and iPad products, which tout slimness above all and couldn’t afford to incorporate the tiniest of memory cards. Though the move was mostly intended to cut out cell service providers, Apple and Google first showed the efficacy of the eSIM model by selling their devices without a pre-loaded service provider. Customers could simply choose from to any number of providers and data packages once connected to Wi-Fi, saving them precious time and effort.
Similarly, blockchain-based services have started popping up looking to be first to corner the emerging market. Dent Wireless, for instance, offers a service that lets users purchase mobile data directly on their mobile phones, as well as sending data. QLink, another blockchain telecommunications pioneer, is building out its infrastructure to provide tools like wi-fi sharing, mobile data, and even enterprise-to-peer services.
eSIM and blockchain are disruptive technology, yet they face significant resistance from entrenched industry players. Even so, they’re finding their way into the world thanks to consumer-minded innovators and companies that see the value of changing with the times. Despite the sometimes-slow progress, both technologies have long since secured their continued existence. The clock is ticking until eSIMs are the new status quo, and blockchain—itself pushing through various industry obstacles—will help them arrive precisely on time.
