An insightful Q&A with Matt Atkinson, Founder of Utelize Mobile on the growing eSIM market opportunity
Businesses that operate internationally have always struggled with the challenge of managing roaming data connectivity and charges across different countries and networks. Unlike most IT services, mobile remains a very local service, with corporates typically contracting with a single network in each country, with most offering little in the of proactive usage controls or real time management to help businesses regulate roaming costs. With eSIM technology now deployed in all iPhones and a growing number of other smartphones, tablets and laptops, large businesses can suddenly take advantage of a new way of managing mobile data charges and connectivity.
In this Sponsored Channel Q&A, we speak to Matt Atkinson, founder of Utelize Mobile, about the role of eSIM in revolutionising enterprise mobile connectivity and the untapped potential for the IT channel to capitalise on this trend.
Could you start by explaining the origins of eSIM and how it came to prominence?
Embedded SIM or ‘eSIM’ technology has been in development for over a decade, but it really started gaining momentum in the consumer market when device manufacturers like Apple and Google began integrating it into their smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches. Put simply eSIM removes the need for a physical SIM card slot and replaces it with a chip that can store multiple digital SIM cards. Making it easier for users to easily switch between mobile carriers or to activate a new data plan without having to visit a store or wait for a SIM card to arrive in the mail.
What’s unique about eSIM is its ability to be provisioned ‘over the air,’ which means that businesses can now deploy mobile services to devices across multiple locations without the logistics of managing physical SIM cards. This is incredibly beneficial for global enterprises that need to ensure seamless connectivity for their teams across borders and of course those that want to save money and stay in control of roaming usage.
How is eSIM changing the landscape for global business connectivity?
For businesses, eSIM is transformative. Traditional roaming charges and fragmented contracts across different regions have long been a headache for IT teams trying to control costs and manage mobile data usage across a global workforce. With eSIM, companies can deploy a single solution that works across hundreds of mobile networks and countries, all managed from a central platform and without the need to change SIMS once activated.
This is particularly important for enterprises whose employees frequently travel or work in multiple countries. eSIM allows businesses to control data usage in real-time, set policies on data consumption, and automatically switch networks as needed to gain the best coverage - all without the complexity of physical SIM cards and tariffs.
eSIM is also enabling businesses to take advantage of flexible, pay-as-you-go models, which can drastically reduce mobile data costs compared to traditional roaming agreements, as the business only pays for what it needs and uses. Removing the need to add bolt-on’s or guess how much data a user will need.
What are the opportunities for businesses to leverage eSIM technology in their operations?
The opportunities are vast. Firstly, eSIM allows businesses to gain complete control over their mobile data consumption and create a global strategy. With our SureSIM Global product, for example, companies can deploy either a Business Profile, which restricts usage to corporate apps and services, or an Open Profile, which allows broader access, including consumer services like streaming.
Secondly, eSIM simplifies the deployment process for IT teams. Because eSIMs can be deployed ‘Over the Air,’ there’s no need to distribute physical SIM cards to employees, and changes to the service (like adding a new user or adjusting data plans) can be made almost instantly. This can save significant time and administrative costs, especially for larger organisations with complex mobile needs and a global workforce.
Lastly, businesses can tailor their mobile data plans to suit different needs, whether that’s temporary access for employees traveling on business or permanent solutions for those who require consistent global coverage. The flexibility of eSIM, combined with real-time control and reporting, means that businesses can optimise their mobile data usage to ensure efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
What role can the IT channel play in delivering eSIM solutions to their clients?
The IT channel is in a unique position to capitalise on eSIM technology. As trusted advisors to their clients, channel partners can offer eSIM solutions as part of a broader connectivity, productivity or mobility strategy, helping their customers simplify their mobile administration and costs. With the growing demand for seamless, cost-effective mobile data connectivity, eSIM is a natural extension for MSPs and telecom resellers who are looking to expand their service portfolios.
Partners can differentiate themselves by offering eSIM solutions like SureSIM Global, which is designed specifically for businesses. It’s not a repackaged consumer product -it’s built from day one to offer enterprise-level controls, security, and visibility, which are essential for large organisations.
Looking forward, how do you see the role of eSIM evolving within the IT channel?
The adoption of eSIM is only going to accelerate as more businesses recognise the value it brings in terms of cost savings, flexibility, and operational efficiency. For the IT channel, this represents a significant opportunity to lead the charge in bringing this technology to a wider audience.
Partners who embrace eSIM now will be ahead of the curve, able to offer their customers a future-proof solution for global connectivity. Importantly, eSIM also starts to reduce a reseller’s dependence on local mobile networks, as a global eSIM is truly a network independent solution. As business customers become more reliant on mobile data, especially with the rise of remote work and distributed teams, the ability to manage that data efficiently in real time will become a key differentiator.
