The Case for Embedded Cellular Connectivity

Enterprises need the flexibility to tailor cellular connectivity to the specific requirements of their use cases and the distinct regulatory and operational constraints of the markets in which they operate. Enterprises that can resolve the commercial and operational challenges around deploying embedded connectivity at scale, will be able to reap huge benefits in the future.

The whitepaper discusses the growing importance of embedding cellular connectivity into devices during the manufacturing process. This technology promises to revolutionise various industries by providing reliable and persistent connectivity, which can unlock significant value across the economy. For instance, fleet managers can continuously track vehicles, medical devices can transmit patient data directly to healthcare providers, and farm machinery can operate autonomously.

With the rollout of 4G, 5G, and embedded-SIMs (eSIMs), the key technical enablers are now in place, leading to a major expansion in the cellular Internet of Things (IoT). GSMA Intelligence forecasts that the number of cellular IoT connections will almost triple from 1.9 billion in 2020 to 5.3 billion by 20301. eSIM penetration within cellular IoT modules is also growing rapidly, expected to become the dominant SIM technology in the next 2-3 years.

The whitepaper highlights the advantages of cellular connectivity over alternatives, such as broad coverage, redundancy, and the ability to provide a stable and consistent connection. This is crucial for critical applications like healthcare and industrial automation, where downtime can have severe consequences. Real-time data collection and analysis enabled by persistent cellular connectivity allow businesses to make data-driven decisions and improve their services based on user behavior.

Despite the benefits, there are significant challenges to broader adoption. Deploying embedded cellular connectivity across multiple countries requires careful planning, regulatory compliance, and technical adaptability. Companies must navigate complex regulatory landscapes, ensure data privacy, and manage supply chain logistics. The whitepaper emphasizes the need for tailor-made solutions to address these challenges and leverage the full potential of embedded connectivity.