How to Pick the Best 5G SIM Card Provider

What exactly is it that Communication Service Providers (CSPs) and OEMs are looking for when considering a 5G service provider? 

We’ve consulted several top CSPs and OEMs to find out just that – helping you to make an informed decision to deliver the fast, secure, and reliable services that consumers and businesses expect in 2023. 

Security needs to be front and center 

Security needs to be front of mind when it comes to 5G SIM cards. 

With the increased speed, data capacity, and reliance on 5G networks, it is more important to prioritize security measures to protect users, systems and data from potential cyber threats. 

CSPs and OEMs must thoroughly vet potential 5G SIM card providers and assess their security measures to ensure they are adequate and up-to-date. This includes everything from encryption techniques to authentication protocols to secure key storage methods and overall security architecture. 

Top tip: Consider the provider’s track record and reputation in the industry, its approach to security updates, compliance with evolving regulations (security and privacy), recommendations, and standards. Look for a provider with industry certifications for security and data protection. 

Reliability is crucial

Reliability directly affects customer service quality – it ensures customers have a seamless and uninterrupted experience when accessing 5G services. 

Just think about it… an unreliable 5G SIM card provider can cause significant downtime and service interruptions, resulting in lost customers, decreased revenue, and damage to the operator’s and vendor’s reputation. 

In addition to affecting customer satisfaction, reliability is critical for deploying new 5G use cases, such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and connected devices. These use cases require a robust and secure network to ensure that devices and applications can communicate and interact seamlessly. 

Smooth integration for overall effectiveness

5G SIM cards must be able to integrate with the operator’s existing systems and infrastructure seamlessly. Without proper integration, the deployment of 5G services can be hindered, leading to delays in new revenue flows and additional costs. 

And that’s not all. 

Integration helps ensure that the 5G network is secure and that data privacy is protected. This is essential for the deployment of sensitive 5G use cases, such as healthcare and financial services. 

Consider scalability

As demand for 5G grows, your provider should have the capability to help you scale. 

Look for a provider that can support your growth plans and accommodate future increases in customer demand. This requires infrastructure, technology, and resources to scale as required. 

The provider should also be able to upgrade their solutions as new technology options, such as eSIM and iSIM, become available to ensure that the operator remains at the forefront of the industry. 

5G is going global, so you also need a provider with a strong presence in the regions you plan to reach with local support and services where you precisely need them. 

Top tip: Scalability needs to be considered in all of these areas: 

• Infrastructure
• Technology
• Resources
• Network
• Security
• Geographical reach
• Ability to enhance and upgrade their offer 

Do the customer references stack up?

Is your provider willing to share customer experience and references? 5G SIM cards are relatively new in the market, so early customers can provide valuable recommendations and insights. 

Feedback from existing customers will provide insight into the company’s service skills, industry experience and reliability with answers to such questions: 

• Has the provider delivered on their promises?
• How did the supplier manage the manufacturing and delivery challenges during these times of Covid and chip shortage?
• Did the 5G SIM cards consistently meet specified quality requirements?
• Was the support team able to help you with any questions or issues? 

A trustworthy provider will readily share its customers’ experiences. 

Innovation is a must

You want a provider ahead of the game, not just keeping up with it. Choose a provider that is dedicated to driving the future of 5G. 

While you probably do not look forward to being the guinea pig that experiences the latest 5G technology, you also do not wish to lag behind. Offering the latest services and embracing the new technology early on will ultimately give you a competitive advantage. 

Take supplier relationships to the next level

We’ve been told by several CSPs and OEMs that relying solely on cost to drive procurement decisions can limit the value they can generate. 

When both buyers and suppliers are open to cooperation, they can work together to find innovative ways to create value that benefits both parties. Whether through joint product development, joint cost savings initiatives, or other forms of collaboration, these partnerships have the potential to deliver remarkable benefits to all stakeholders. 

How to get the most out of your 5G network

The right 5G SIM card provider can help you get the most out of your 5G network, keep your devices and data secure, and support your growth and expansion into new markets. 

Consider a provider with a robust global manufacturing presence, flexible supply chain strategy and strong customer relationships with a track record in addressing critical business challenges. 

Thales has extensive experience and success in the SIM market, as evidenced by the release of the first 5G SIM in 2019 and its current SIM market-leading position with a 23% market share and 450+ telecom operator partnerships in 150 countries.