rSIM tackles IoT access disruptions with world-first network switching

As Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) invest in upgrading their core networks away from 2G and 3G to 4G and 5G, periods of unplanned downtime have become more prevalent. They can leave customers disconnected for long periods in life-critical positions, disrupting health services and shutting down entire train networks. 

But now, UK company CSL Group has announced rSIM, a real-time solution to mitigate critical connectivity outages and their associated disruption.

The company has developed a new intelligent SIM card to radically improve network connectivity for IoT devices and mobile internet. Today, it's been launched in partnership with global operators Deutsche Telekom IoT and Tele2 IoT.

The rSIM® (Resilient SIM) uses new patented technology to check its own network connectivity and switch providers automatically when disruptions occur, minimising the chances of the SIM and the device becoming disconnected during outages.

 With two independent mobile operator profiles stored on a single SIM card, rSIM significantly reduces the risk of outages by switching to a backup mobile operator profile if an outage is detected. The SIM offers two levels of resilience, enabling seamless roaming outside of a device's home country and providing a proactive solution for uninterrupted internet access. 

The intelligence is brought to life in a new Connectivity Management Platform, where customers can see real-time connection tests from every SIM, no matter which mobile operator profile it is connected to.

A global SIM technology provider will lead on the product build and manufacture, as well as provide supporting SIM systems that allow rSIMs to be updated over the air. As part of this, they will prioritise GSMA compliance to optimise device and operator compatibility.

According to Richard Cunliffe, Director of Product and Innovation, rSIM:

"There were around 2 billion cellular IoT connections in 2023, growing to around 7 billion in 2033. As more industries become dependent on IoT, mobile network outages are becoming more commonplace as more devices connect to them. 

This increased disruption affects all industries, but the most significant impact is seen in critical sectors where lives and infrastructure are at risk, for example, in Telecare and Critical National Infrastructure (CNI). 

Workingwith our best-in-class global partners on the development, build, and rollout of rSIM, our innovative dual SIM, dual core approach will provide a solution that monitors disruptions and reacts to them at speed."

The company plans to develop a sim card version compatible with SGP.32 standards in 2025, integral to eSIM remote provisioning for IoT devices, particularly those with network or user interface limitations.