Companies face several challenges when managing connected assets on the move, including expensive roaming charges when moving outside of subscribed coverage zones and losing signal in weak or low coverage areas. These connectivity challenges lead to decreased visibility of devices and leave businesses unable to perform critical tasks. Managing these changes requires dedicated resources too, further straining operational efficiency. To help businesses tackle these connectivity challenges and meet the growing demand for sustainability, global connectivity provider iONLINE ISP partnered with eSIM specialist Workz to create an advanced hybrid eSIM solution with remote online and offline network switching capabilities.

The solution helps businesses lower running costs and avoid service disruption by automating network switching as conditions change. The eSIM component also enables on-demand network selection, freeing companies from being locked into the network options assigned to the SIM at manufacture. In addition, the offering provides a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional SIMs, with custom-sized modules that use 50% less plastic and rewritable eSIM technology that allows remote network updates and eliminates the need for any physical replacement of the card.

The result of iONLINE’s partnership with Workz is FlexiSIM™, which launched in South Africa and the United Kingdom in 2023 and is due to be released in the United States later this year. Through its global, private network, iONLINE ISP provides secure, high-speed connectivity in 189-plus countries across more than 700 carrier networks. Companies benefitting from FlexiSIM™ include Fujifilm, AIoTSense, BrightBlue, Trellis Works, Online Direct, Amber Group, and Fidelity ADT. Fidelity ADT, the largest security services provider to medium and large-scale enterprises in South Africa, utilises thousands of FlexiSIM™ cards to stay connected daily to protect infrastructure, including airports, government, health and education departments, hospitality venues, casinos, shopping centres, and residential estates.

The environment is top of mind for as much as 65% of businesses, according to Forbes, as awareness about climate change grows and businesses recognise their place in this, as well as the need to move away from conventional products towards more eco-friendly alternatives. Though small in size, SIM cards are produced in surprisingly high numbers annually, with ABI Research estimating around 4.45 billion shipped globally in 2022. About 20,000 tonnes of plastic is used in manufacturing, and approximately 85% of the plastic card is discarded before the SIM is even used. Workz has helped reduce the CO₂ footprint of mobile network operators (MNOs) by up to 92% by optimising their SIM cards and packaging to reduce plastic use and conducting supply chain analysis.

David Farquharson, founder and CEO of iONLINE ISP, said he approached several SIM manufacturers when first investigating options but that none brought the flexibility he wanted for the product. He says: "Workz was uniquely positioned to help us develop customised solutions to meet our clients' needs, and in them we found a supplier and like-minded ally to achieve our global IoT vision. Workz's dedication, innovation and collaborative spirit resonate deeply with our values at iONLINE. Their SIMs are manufactured on site with sustainability front of mind, ensuring minimal environmental impact."

Workz CIO Edwin Haver added: "We enjoyed working on this project with iONLINE. Their willingness to utilise new technology encouraged us to push the boundaries. It's been great to see how companies leverage our technology to protect their assets, react quicker to situations, and gain greater visibility of their business. This partnership provides a springboard for us both as we continue to help businesses gain a competitive advantage from IoT."

About iONLINE:

iONLINE is a leading connectivity provider that delivers cutting-edge technology solutions to businesses around the world. iONLINE’s flagship product is its multi-network-resilient global IoT connectivity solution, FlexiSIM™, which connects in 189+ countries, on over 700 carriers. With offices in South Africa, the UK, the USA and Australia, iONLINE is dedicated to providing exceptional customer service and ensuring that its clients remain connected in a constantly changing world. Furthermore, iONLINE is committed to promoting positive change for both society and the environment, reflecting its dedication to corporate social responsibility.

About Workz 
Workz is a dynamic subscriber solutions provider that delivers a full suite of intelligent, future-proof eSIM & SIM solutions from hardware to software and over-the-air subscriber management services. Since 1997, the company has managed billions of connections across five continents for some of the world's most renowned brands. It has been consistently recognised by various market commentators as one of the leading names in telecoms and one of only five providers worldwide to be certified by the GSMA to manage the complete eSIM lifecycle from production to subscription management across the consumer and M2M/IoT markets. Workz is also the world's largest manufacturer of telecom (SIM and prepaid) cards.