Physical Sim Cards could become obsolete by as early as 2016 with the launch of a new embedded Sim.
The Financial Times reports that Apple and Samsung are in “advanced talks” to start using the embedded Sim technology. Unlike the traditional Sim, which locks users to a network, the embedded Sim would allow ease of mobility in switching between carriers.
The GSMA, the industry association which represents mobile operators worldwide, is soon expected to announce an agreement to produce a standardised embedded Sim that would include smartphone manufacturers.
“With the majority of operators on board, the plan is to finalise the technical architecture that will be used in the development of an end-to-end remote SIM solution for consumer devices, with delivery anticipated by 2016,” the organisation said in a statement.
The GSMA said it was “continuing to work with Apple to secure their support for the initiative.
“We have been working with them and others to create an industry solution for machines and will agree a solution for consumer electronics,” the GSMA said.
