Interrelated Trends: Low-power IoT Modules, iSIM, and 5G
According to Transforma Insight, the number of connected devices is expected to increase significantly over the next decade, reaching 31.8 billion by 2030. Ongoing discussions, new research, and emerging data are shaping the understanding of current and future trends in IoT technologies. These developments are influencing how IoT applications are implemented and how they may impact the industry and service providers moving forward. Some of the key topics of discussion today include 5G readiness, iSIM, and low-power IoT modules.
Mass-Scale IoT Deployment and 5G Trajectory
The evolution of connectivity technologies in IoT has brought significant advancements with LTE-M (Cat-M) and NB-IoT. Both NB-IoT and LTE-M fulfil the 5G IMT 2020 requirements for massive machine type communications. Furthermore, 3GPP has agreed that LPWA use cases will continue to be addressed by evolving NB-IoT and LTE-M from Release 16 or 17, as part of the 5G specifications. 3GPP has introduced an option for the 5G core network to support a NB-IoT or LTE-M radio access network. As a result, NB-IoT and LTE-M can continue to be supported in 5G networks after the closure of an operator’s 4G. This will enable a smooth operator migration path to 5G NR frequency bands while preserving NB-IoT and LTE-M deployments. While there is currently no implementation of this 3GPP architecture option in any public operator network, it gives individual operators the flexibility to continue to provide long-term support for NB-IoT and LTE-M.
While LTE-M and NB-IoT originated in the 4G era, their integration into 5G ecosystems prove their importance in IoT applications requiring extended coverage and minimal power consumption. Innovations like NB2 (the second generation of NB-IoT) and Cat-1 bis further enhance these capabilities. However, the future lies in 5G RedCap (Reduced Capability), a technology poised to succeed LTE-M by delivering higher efficiency tailored for massive IoT use cases.
Mass-scale trends also cover iSIM technology, which integrates SIM functionality into low-power IoT modules for streamlined deployment and lower costs. Combined, these innovations represent a cohesive trajectory towards scalable, low-power, and globally connected IoT ecosystem.
The Role of iSIM in IoT Projects
With the eSIM/MFF2, IoT has seen SIM miniaturization by eliminating the need for SIM sockets, as it could be mounted directly onto a device's PCB. Despite this, further advancements were needed, leading to the development of the iSIM (integrated SIM). It is smaller, more cost-effective, and complies with the latest GSMA standards (SGP.31/32), supporting remote SIM provisioning (RSP) and playing a key role in the Mobile IoT. According to Statista, mobile network operators anticipate that by 2030, fewer than one-third of global cellular IoT connections will rely on traditional removable SIM cards. Instead, they expect 37% of connections to utilize eSIMs (embedded SIMs), while 34% will adopt iSIM technology.
Embedding SIM functionality onto the System-on-a-Chip (SoC) via iSIM architecture avoids the need for separate SIM components, whether discrete or soldered. This shift presents notable benefits in terms of spatial efficiency and operational logistics. Moreover, iSIM implementation reduces device footprint by decreasing circuit board area typically allocated to SIM hardware. This is particularly convenient in the design of compact IoT endpoints. Furthermore, the absence of external SIM provisioning simplifies the manufacturing process and the associated supply chain, improving production processes and deployment speed.
In addition, integrating the iSIM with the SoC's security framework provides an improved defence against physical tampering and unauthorized access. The unified security model protects critical data, strengthens the overall integrity of the device. and allows using hardware-rooted security features. iSIM technology supports OTA firmware updates and in future - remote SIM provisioning (RSP). They enable dynamic carrier profile switching and multinational roaming across diverse cellular networks, giving the user a global reach and future-proofing in evolving network environments.
Low-Power IoT Modules with iSIM Support
Low-power IoT modules in the context of eSIM/iSIM are designed to operate efficiently with minimal energy consumption and at a large device scale. By integrating the iSIM functionality directly into the module, they reduce both size and power consumption. This integration not only minimizes hardware requirements but also supports long-term device deployments by enhancing battery life and reducing maintenance needs. Additionally, with capabilities such as over-the-air (OTA) updates and remote SIM provisioning (RSP) in compliance with the latest GSMA standards (SGP.31/32), low-power IoT modules enable dynamic network configuration and seamless updates without physical intervention. This reduces operational complexity, supports scalable deployment across diverse geographies, and minimizes costs associated with manual maintenance and provisioning, making them well-suited for a wide range of IoT applications.
Murata, a leading global manufacturer of electronic components, has developed the Type 1SC, an iSIM-ready module designed for advanced cellular IoT applications. It offers compatibility with both Cat-M1 and NB-IoT protocols across a broad spectrum of LTE frequencies. In addition, it incorporates multiple power-saving modes and optimizes sleep-cycle management. The module includes integrated GNSS capabilities and features a multi-layered security architecture, like secure boot, secure storage, and cryptographic mechanisms, protecting sensitive data and ensuring device integrity, by preventing malicious actions.
Hiro Hyogo, Senior Manager, Corporate Technology and Innovation, Murata Americas: "The Type 1SC underscores Murata's commitment to providing modules for the rapidly evolving IoT ecosystem across asset tracking, fleet management, healthcare monitoring, and more. Through the integration of iSIM technology and global connectivity, we are enabling the development of more compact, secure, and globally connected modules improving device performance."
In cooperation with 1NCE, the modules are shipped with a pre-loaded SIM profile, activated and provisioned with an initial data. This approach minimizes complexities associated with procuring and activating individual SIM cards, thus simplifying initial device setup and configuration. In addition, the 1NCE platform provides a centralized interface for device management.
Andy Do, President of Embedded Works: "We believe the easy button for cellular IoT designs starts with the Murata type 1SC iSIM module powered by 1NCE. Not only is this the most compact CAT-M / NB-IoT radio module on the market, with preloaded iSIM data included, this can be years of usage for many IoT applications. We love the 1NCE data model of a “sleeping SIM”, essentially using data only when you need it without a monthly recurring charge. Embedded Works is proud to be the partner in bringing this innovative solution to the connected devices market."
To Sum up
The integration of iSIM technology into low-power IoT modules is closely tied to the evolution of 5G connectivity. By embedding SIM functionality directly into the device, iSIM reduces size and power consumption, supporting long-lasting, scalable deployments. This synergy enables more efficient, secure, and flexible IoT solutions, particularly as 5G RedCap and low-power modules drive the future of mass-scale IoT applications, offering improved performance while minimizing operational costs.