iUICC, SIM implemented as a communication chipset function
No SIM card required, improved device durability


The world's first USIM-less communication module has received commercialization certification from a telecommunications company, paving the way for its application to actual devices.

LG Uplus announced on the 8th that it has completed commercialization certification of 'iUICC', a SIM card-less communication technology, in cooperation with domestic and foreign telecommunication developers.

LG Uplus, together with Sony Semiconductor Israel, Entymoa, and G&D, has developed a communication module based on iUICC, a USIM embedded technology, and completed service certification.

iUICC (Integrated SIM or iSIM) is a technology that implements a SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) as a function of a device's communication chipset, which handles voice and data signal processing. A SIM is a small memory card that stores personal information for purposes such as subscriber authentication and billing in telecommunications services.

Although technology to replace SIM cards with software already exists, its use has been limited due to security vulnerabilities. In the case of USIM (Universal SIM) or eSIM (embedded SIM), separate space and parts for the SIM were required, which did not lead to a reduction in the mounting area inside the device.

Applying this technology to actual cellular IoT devices could significantly reduce their size. This is because the iUICC functionality is built into the communication chipset, eliminating the need for separate space or components for the SIM.

Without a SIM card and its socket, manufacturers can reduce costs. Furthermore, the absence of a SIM card increases device durability against external environments such as high temperatures, high pressures, and vibrations, making the device more convenient to use and enhancing its usability in specialized industrial settings.

LG U+ plans to preemptively apply iUICC technology to IoT devices based on NB-IoT and LTE-Cat.M1 networks. It is particularly considering applications for devices such as remote metering, where ensuring reliability in outdoor environments is crucial, and location tracking systems, which require miniaturization.