STC to deploy Thales eSIM technology in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Telecom Company (STC) has picked Thales to supply eSIMs for mobile customers in Saudi Arabia. The National eSIM Platform has been deployed at STC’s data centre for use by all other MNOs and MVNOs in Saudi Arabia.

eSIMs are compatible with the latest smartphones, wearables, connected laptops/tablets and other consumer IoT devices.

Thales says its On-Demand Connectivity cloud service deployed in Saudi Arabia is fully compliant with the latest GSMA specifications and will enable STC’s customers to activate mobile IoT connectivity from the first time they switch on their new device. Subscriptions can then be modified and updated over-the-air, throughout the product lifecycle, without having to return to a store.

The service can also be provided to any telecommunications company in the Arab Gulf region, or any international telecommunications company wishing to obtain the service from STC.

Read: Oracle building major cloud data centres in the UAE, Saudi Arabia

In the next phase of the deployment, the National eSIM Platform will be extended to cover the eSIM use case for connected cars and other industrial machines that can benefit from embedded SIM technology and the country-wide connectivity services of STC. Fitted into the device during production, the eSIM technology saves space, improves security and streamlines the manufacturing and logistics for innovative connected products. This includes the internet of things (IoT), vehicle guidance technologies, and artificial intelligence.

Recent data from IDC estimates that spending on IoT technologies in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region is set to accelerate and reach $17.63bn by 2023. This is driven by digital transformation projects in both the public and private sectors, as the region starts to play an increasing role in the development of smart cities.

“With billions of people now requiring instant connectivity and machines needing to get connected, remote subscription management is key to enhanced user experience,” said Pascal Lesaulnier, CEO, Thales Saudi Arabia.

“The launch of this new eSIM platform will not only provide mobile customers across the Kingdom with access to an integrated and distinctive digital experience but also represents a key step towards diversification through innovation,” he added.