SGP.32. The new eSIM standard that makes IoT simpler, smarter, and more scalable.

What are the key advantages of the new standard? Our e-SIM expert Björn Hjelt, Head of SIM and Multi-Device at Telia, explains what this change means in practice and how Telia can support you in quickly adopting the new standard.

What is e-SIM?

e-SIM stands for embedded SIM – a secure SIM chip built directly into the device rather than on a removable card. The term also encompasses global standards defined by GSMA, the mobile industry's trade organization, which enable remote storage and management of multiple operator profiles. The technology can be used across all SIM formats, not just embedded ones. e-SIM has been around for several years, with GSMA progressively releasing different standards along the way.

The first e-SIM technology, SGP.02, was largely based on older M2M solutions. Then came SGP.22, or Consumer e-SIM, for smartphones and smartwatches. The new SGP.32 standard builds on consumer e-SIM technology but is designed for IoT, with a focus on remote management, SIM administration, and greater flexibility.

Björn Hjelt, Head of SIM and Multi-Device at Telia.

What does SGP.32 include?

The technical specifications for SGP.32 were finalized in 2023 and updated in summer 2024. Testing and pilot projects have been underway for some time, but the first certified devices are now being rolled out. Commercial adoption is expected to accelerate throughout 2026.

Despite improvements from earlier e-SIM standards, managing SIM profiles in IoT devices has often been complicated and expensive. Operator lock-ins have been common, and remote device management has required extensive system integrations. SGP.32 addresses this with simplified device management, remote SIM provisioning, and the ability to switch operators without costly backend integrations.

This is made possible through a new architecture where the previous Local Profile Assistant (LPA) is split into two components:

• IoT Profile Assistant (IPA) in the device or chip

• e-SIM IoT Remote Manager (eIM), managed on the network side

How remote SIM management improves IoT

The ability to update or switch SIM profiles remotely, without physically replacing SIM cards, is a major advantage in IoT environments where agility and scalability are critical.

Many IoT deployments involve thousands of devices distributed across large areas. With remote SIM management, there's no need to send out a technician to swap cards – everything can be managed centrally. A concrete example is energy companies using IoT devices to monitor remote power lines. Previously, physical visits were required to change operators. With SGP.32, it happens digitally – fast, secure, and cost-effective.

Scalability on a new level

The increased flexibility in SGP.32 is expected to simplify scalability and enable faster IoT deployments by significantly accelerating the installation and configuration process.

Additionally, flexible profile management makes it easier to adapt to new requirements and changing business needs.

The new e-SIM standard SGP.32 is an important step forward that makes it easier to manage large IoT installations efficiently. We see it as key to future innovation, creating value in new products and services while simplifying scalability, says Björn Hjelt.

Maximizing the value of SGP.32

To leverage the standard's full potential requires the right support and an experienced partner who can guide you through technical adaptations and ensure a smooth transition.

Leveraging the standard's full potential isn't just about flipping a switch. Telia was among the first in the world to launch consumer e-SIM, and with our extensive experience in M2M and IoT services, we can help our customers take the next step. We can assist with everything from infrastructure and software updates to compatibility, so you can quickly start benefiting from the new standard, concludes Björn Hjelt.

Want to know more?

Curious about how your business can benefit from the new e-SIM standard SGP.32? Contact us to learn more: iot-sales@teliacompany.com

You can also download a document with more information about SGP.32 in English: Enhancing IoT with new SGP.32 eSIM standard