Method and electronic device for automatically switching between multiple profiles in an ESIM

Abstract

A method for automatically switching between multiple embedded subscriber identity module (eSIM) profiles in an electronic device is provided. The method may include: when a first eSIM profile among the multiple eSIM profiles is enabled in the electronic device, determining multiple contexts of the electronic device; when the first eSIM profile is enabled in the electronic device, determining a second eSIM profile having a highest profile weight from the multiple eSIM profiles based on the multiple contexts of the electronic device; and automatically switching from the first eSIM profile to the second eSIM profile in the electronic device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Apparatuses and methods consistent with example embodiments relate to device management, and more particularly, to automatically switching between multiple profiles in an embedded SIM of an electronic device. Background Art

[0002] Typically, electronic devices provide a slot for inserting a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card, which enables access to a communication network. As technology advances, embedded SIMs (eSIMs) that are embedded integrated circuit cards (eUICCs) are introduced. The eSIM accommodates multiple profiles belonging to the same or different operators within an electronic device. The eSIM provides many advantages to users. Users can use one number for company activities and another number for personal calls, or have a data roaming profile for use in another country, etc. Users can even have separate voice and data plans entirely, quickly switching operators to connect if the user is in an area with no signal, making room for new features or extra battery life.

[0003] However, in the case of eSIM, only one profile can be enabled at a time, while all other profiles are disabled. The user manually selects the profile to be enabled from the multiple profiles of the eSIM based on needs such as data, corporate activities, personal calls, etc. Therefore, every time the user wants to use a different profile, the user has to follow a series of predetermined steps to perform profile switching, which can be cumbersome and time-consuming. In addition, the user may not know the best profile for a specific use.

[0004] For example, consider that a user wants to download a video of size 180MB, but the available data in the profile enabled on the electronic device does not match the requirement. The user will then have to manually switch to another profile and check whether the video can be downloaded using that profile. Furthermore, the user will have to repeat a series of predetermined steps to perform profile switching until a suitable profile is found to download the video. Summary of the invention

[0005] Technical issues

[0006] A method for automatically switching between multiple profiles in an embedded subscriber identity module (eSIM) of an electronic device is provided.

[0007] Solution

[0008] One or more embodiments are provided to determine multiple contexts of an electronic device when a first profile among multiple profiles is enabled in the electronic device, determine profile weights of multiple profiles in an eSIM of the electronic device, and / or determine a second profile from multiple profiles based on the profile weights of the multiple contexts of the electronic device.

[0009] Furthermore, one or more embodiments are provided to automatically switch to a second profile by enabling the second profile and disabling the first profile on the electronic device.

[0010] Furthermore, one or more embodiments are provided to recommend a second profile to a user and enable the user to switch to the second profile by manually enabling the second profile and disabling the first profile on the electronic device.

[0011] According to an aspect of an embodiment, a method for automatically switching between multiple embedded subscriber identity module (eSIM) profiles in an electronic device is provided, the method comprising: when a first eSIM profile among multiple eSIM profiles is enabled in the electronic device, determining multiple contexts of the electronic device; when the first eSIM profile is enabled in the electronic device, determining a second eSIM profile having a highest profile weight from the multiple eSIM profiles based on the multiple contexts of the electronic device; and automatically switching from the first eSIM profile to the second eSIM profile in the electronic device.

[0012] Determining the second eSIM profile may include: determining a context weight for each of a plurality of contexts by applying a weight factor to each of the contexts of the electronic device; determining a profile weight by combining all determined context weights; and determining the second eSIM profile from the plurality of eSIM profiles based on the profile weights.

[0013] The method may further include displaying the second eSIM profile on a screen of the electronic device along with a plurality of contexts for determining the profile weight.

[0014] Automatically switching from a first eSIM profile to a second eSIM profile in an electronic device may include: automatically disabling the first eSIM profile in the electronic device; and automatically enabling the second eSIM profile in the electronic device.

[0015] Multiple contexts of the electronic device may be dynamically determined based on multiple context parameters of the electronic device.

[0016] The plurality of context parameters may include at least one of a location of the electronic device, a dialed number, rate policies of the plurality of eSIM profiles, signal strengths associated with the plurality of eSIM profiles, user history, and user preferences.

[0017] The plurality of contexts may include at least one of a location-based context, a device-based context, and a network-based context.

[0018] The weighting factors may be determined dynamically based on a number of contextual parameters and user preferences.

[0019] Determining the second eSIM profile may include: determining a current location of the electronic device; and determining the second eSIM profile among the plurality of eSIM profiles based on a user history, wherein the user history indicates an eSIM profile frequently used by a user at the current location of the electronic device.

[0020] Determining the second eSIM profile may include determining the second eSIM profile based on a signal strength of each of the plurality of eSIM profiles.

[0021] According to an aspect of another embodiment, there is provided a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing a program executable by a computer to perform a method for automatically switching between eSIM profiles.

[0022] According to an aspect of another embodiment, an electronic device for automatically switching between multiple embedded subscriber identity module (eSIM) profiles in an electronic device is provided, the electronic device including a processor configured to: when a first eSIM profile among the multiple eSIM profiles is enabled in the electronic device, determine multiple contexts of the electronic device; when the first eSIM profile is enabled in the electronic device, determine a second eSIM profile having a highest profile weight from the multiple eSIM profiles based on the multiple contexts of the electronic device; and automatically switch from the first eSIM profile to the second eSIM profile in the electronic device.

[0023] The processor may be further configured to: determine a context weight for each of the plurality of contexts by applying a weight factor to each of the contexts of the electronic device; determine a profile weight by combining all determined context weights; and determine the second eSIM profile from the plurality of eSIM profiles based on the profile weights.

[0024] The electronic device may further include a display, wherein the processor is further configured to control the display to display the second eSIM profile together with the plurality of contexts used to determine the profile weight.

[0025] The processor may be further configured to: automatically disable a first eSIM profile in the electronic device; and automatically enable the second eSIM profile in the electronic device.

[0026] The processor may be further configured to determine the plurality of contexts of the electronic device based on a plurality of context parameters of the electronic device.

[0027] The plurality of context parameters may include at least one of a location of the electronic device, a dialed number, rate policies of a plurality of eSIM profiles, signal strengths associated with a plurality of profiles, user history, and user preferences.

[0028] The plurality of contexts may include at least one of a location-based context, a device-based context, and a network-based context.

[0029] The processor may be further configured to determine the weight factor based on the plurality of contextual parameters and user preferences.

[0030] The processor may be further configured to determine a second eSIM profile among the plurality of eSIM profiles based on a user history, wherein the user history indicates an eSIM profile frequently used by the user at a current location of the electronic device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] The above and other aspects, features and advantages of certain embodiments of the present disclosure will become more apparent through the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0032] Figure 1A is a block diagram of an electronic device for automatically switching between multiple profiles in an eSIM according to an embodiment disclosed herein;

[0033] Figure 1B is a block diagram of a processor of an electronic device for automatically switching between multiple profiles in an eSIM according to an embodiment disclosed herein;

[0034] Figure 1C A method of determining profile weights of multiple profiles in an electronic device according to an embodiment disclosed herein is shown;

[0035] Figure 2 is a flow chart of a method for automatically switching between multiple profiles in an eSIM of an electronic device according to an embodiment disclosed herein;

[0036] Figure 3 Shown are multiple electronic devices in synchronization according to embodiments disclosed herein, wherein multiple contexts are determined by an electronic device using the multiple electronic devices;

[0037] Figure 4 An example scenario for switching from a first profile to a second profile in an electronic device based on a type of phone number according to an embodiment disclosed herein is shown;

[0038] Figure 5 An example scenario for automatically switching from a first profile to a second profile in an electronic device based on a signal strength of a network according to an embodiment disclosed herein is shown;

[0039] Figure 6 An example scenario for automatically switching from a first profile to a second profile in an electronic device based on data availability in the first profile according to embodiments disclosed herein is shown;

[0040] Figure 7 An example scenario for automatically switching from a first profile to a second profile in an electronic device based on multiple contexts according to an embodiment disclosed herein is shown;

[0041] Figure 8 An example scenario for automatically switching from a first profile to a second profile in an electronic device based on a location of the electronic device according to an embodiment disclosed herein is shown; and

[0042] Fig. 9 An example scenario for automatically switching from a first profile to a second profile in an electronic device based on the validity of the profile according to embodiments disclosed herein is illustrated. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] Example embodiments are described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0044] In the following description, the same reference numerals are used for the same elements even in different drawings. Matters defined in the specification, such as detailed construction and elements, are provided to assist in a comprehensive understanding of the exemplary embodiments. However, it is apparent that the exemplary embodiments can be practiced without those specifically defined matters. In addition, well-known functions or constructions are not described in detail because they would obscure the specification with unnecessary detail.

[0045] Furthermore, the various embodiments described herein are not necessarily mutually exclusive, as some embodiments can be combined with one or more other embodiments to form new embodiments.

[0046] In this document, unless otherwise specified, the term "or" as used herein refers to a non-exclusive or. Expressions such as "at least one of..." when preceding a list of elements modify the entire list of elements, rather than the individual elements of the list. For example, the expression "at least one of a, b, and c" should be understood to include only a, only b, only c, both a and b, both a and c, both b and c, all of a, b, and c, or any variation of the foregoing examples.

[0047] Embodiments can be described and illustrated in accordance with blocks that perform one or more functions described. These blocks (which may be referred to herein as units, engines, managers, modules, etc.) are physically implemented by analog and / or digital circuits (such as logic gates, integrated circuits, microprocessors, microcontrollers, memory circuits, passive electronic components, active electronic components, optical components, hard-wired circuits, etc.), and may be optionally driven by firmware and / or software. For example, the circuit may be embodied in one or more semiconductor chips, or embodied on substrate supports such as printed circuit boards. The circuits constituting the blocks may be implemented by dedicated hardware, or by a processor (e.g., one or more programmed microprocessors and associated circuits), or by a combination of dedicated hardware that performs some functions of the blocks and processors that perform other functions of the blocks. Without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, each block of the embodiment may be physically divided into two or more interacting and discrete blocks. Similarly, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, the blocks of the embodiment may be physically combined into more complex blocks.

[0048] Therefore, embodiments of the present invention provide a method for automatically switching between multiple profiles in an embedded subscriber identity module (eSIM) of an electronic device. The method includes: when a first profile of multiple profiles is enabled in the electronic device, the electronic device determines multiple contexts of the electronic device. In addition, the method includes determining a second profile from the multiple profiles based on the multiple contexts of the electronic device by the electronic device, and automatically switching from the first profile to the second profile by the electronic device in the electronic device.

[0049] In an embodiment, determining a second profile from a plurality of profiles based on a plurality of contexts of the electronic device comprises: determining a context weight for each of the plurality of contexts by combining a weight factor to each of the contexts of the electronic device. The method further comprises determining a profile weight by combining all determined context weights, and determining a second profile from the plurality of profiles based on the profile weight.

[0050] In an embodiment, the method further comprises displaying a second profile determined from the plurality of profiles on a screen of the electronic device 100, wherein the second profile is displayed together with a plurality of contexts used in determining the profile weights.

[0051] In an embodiment, automatically switching from the first profile to the second profile in the electronic device includes: automatically disabling the first profile in the electronic device, and automatically enabling the second profile in the electronic device.

[0052] In an embodiment, a plurality of contexts of the electronic device are dynamically determined based on a plurality of context parameters of the electronic device.

[0053] In an embodiment, the plurality of context parameters include at least one of a location of the electronic device, a dialed number, rates for the plurality of profiles, signal strengths associated with the plurality of profiles, user history, and the like.

[0054] In an embodiment, the plurality of contexts includes at least one of a location-based context, a device-based context, a network-based context, and the like.

[0055] In an embodiment, the weighting factors are dynamically determined based on multiple contextual parameters and user preferences.

[0056] In conventional methods and systems, the user has to manually switch from the first profile to the second profile. Unlike conventional methods and systems, the proposed method enables the electronic device to automatically switch from the first profile to the second profile based on the profile weights of the multiple profiles.

[0057] In conventional methods and systems, the user may not know the best profile to select in a given scenario. Unlike conventional methods and systems, in the proposed method, the electronic device monitors multiple contexts, each with a weight. In addition, the electronic device determines the best profile suitable for a given scenario based on the profile weights.

[0058] Figure 1A is a block diagram of an electronic device 100 for automatically switching between multiple profiles in an eSIM 120 according to an embodiment disclosed herein.

[0059] refer to Figure 1A Examples of the electronic device 100 may include a laptop computer, a personal computer, a mobile phone, a smart phone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a tablet computer, a wearable device, etc. In an embodiment, the electronic device 100 may include a communication interface 110, an embedded subscriber identity module (eSIM) 120, a processor 130, a memory 140, and a display 150.

[0060] In an embodiment, Figure 3 As shown, the communication interface 110 is configured to communicate with other connected electronic devices (e.g., the second electronic device 100b, the cloud server 1000, etc.). The communication interface 110 can use communication protocols such as, for example, Bluetooth, near field communication (NFC), ZigBee, RuBee, and wireless local area network (WLAN) functions, etc.

[0061] The eSIM 120 is installed in the electronic device 100 as an integrated circuit (IC) and enables the network operator (e.g., wireless service provider, wireless operator, cellular company, or mobile network operator) to be changed by means of Over-The-Air (OTA) technology without removing the eSIM 120, and the eSIM 120 can therefore continue to be used while the network operator is being changed.

[0062] The eSIM 120 may store and enable multiple profiles of the same or different network operators. Examples of multiple profiles may include operator profiles and operational profiles. The operator profile may be programmed during manufacturing and may carry information that enables identification and authentication of the eSIM 120 with the selected network. The operational profile may contain one or more network access applications and associated network access credentials and the operator's application (e.g., SIM toolkit).

[0063] In an embodiment, the processor 130 is configured to determine multiple contexts of the electronic device 100 when a first profile among multiple profiles is enabled in the electronic device 100. The processor 130 is also configured to determine a second profile from the multiple profiles based on the multiple contexts of the electronic device 100, and automatically switch from the first profile to the second profile in the electronic device 100. The multiple contexts of the electronic device 100 are dynamically determined based on multiple context parameters of the electronic device 100. The multiple context parameters include at least one of the location of the electronic device 100, the type of the dialed number, the rate plan of the multiple profiles, the signal strength associated with the multiple profiles, the user history, etc. The multiple contexts include at least one of a location-based context, a device-based context, a network-based context, etc.

[0064] For example, the context may be a location-based context, and the context parameter may be the current location of the electronic device 100 (e.g., an office, a gym, etc.). In another example, the context may be a network-based context, and the context parameter may be the type of network used by the electronic device 100 (e.g., a wireless or WiFi network, a cellular network, a Bluetooth network, etc.). Thus, multiple contexts are dynamically determined based on multiple context parameters.

[0065] Furthermore, automatic switching between multiple profiles of the electronic device 100 is performed in accordance with General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) enactment and federated learning experience. GDPR enactment is location specific, so multiple context parameters are determined accordingly.

[0066] In another embodiment, the processor 130 is configured to determine multiple contexts of the electronic device 100 when a first profile among multiple profiles is enabled in the electronic device 100. The processor 130 is also configured to determine a second profile from the multiple profiles based on the multiple contexts of the electronic device 100, and display a recommendation on the display 150 of the electronic device 100. The recommendation includes details of the second profile, wherein the user is recommended to switch to the second profile in order to obtain an enhanced user experience. The user can manually switch to the second profile recommended by the processor 130 or choose to continue to enable the first profile in the electronic device 100.

[0067] For example, consider that the electronic device 100 recommends the user to switch to the company profile when the user enters the office based on the context of the user's history. However, the user switches to the company profile, or continues the existing profile enabled in the electronic device 100.

[0068] Furthermore, the electronic device 100 allows the user to disable the profile switching feature entirely, and continue the feature of manually switching between the first profile and the second profile when desired.

[0069] In an embodiment, the memory 140 may include a non-volatile storage element. Examples of such non-volatile storage elements may include a magnetic hard disk, an optical disk, a floppy disk, a flash memory, or an electrically programmable memory (EPROM) or an electrically erasable programmable (EEPROM) memory. In addition, in some examples, the memory 140 may be implemented as a non-transitory storage medium. The term "non-transitory" may indicate that the storage medium is not embodied in a carrier or propagation signal. However, the term "non-transitory" should not be interpreted as the memory 140 being non-removable. In some examples, the memory 140 is configured to store a larger amount of information than the memory. In some examples, the non-transitory storage medium may store data that can change over time (e.g., in a random access memory (RAM) or a cache memory).

[0070] In an embodiment, the display 150 may be a portion of the screen of the electronic device 100 or the entire screen of the electronic device 100, which is used to display information related to multiple contexts. The display 150 is also configured to display the second profile determined by the processor 130 and the multiple contexts used to determine the profile weight. The second profile may be displayed as a message, a pop-up window, a widget, etc.

[0071] although Figure 1A The hardware components of the electronic device 100 are shown, but it should be understood that other embodiments are not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the electronic device 100 may include fewer or more number of components. In addition, the labels or names of the components are only for illustrative purposes and do not limit the scope of the present invention. One or more components may be combined together to perform the same or substantially similar functions.

[0072] Figure 1B is a block diagram of a processor 130 of an electronic device 100 for automatically switching between multiple profiles in an eSIM 120 according to an embodiment disclosed herein.

[0073] refer to Figure 1B The processor 130 includes a context determination engine 132, a location-based function management engine 134, and an arbitration module 136, wherein the arbitration module 136 includes a context weight determination engine 136a, a profile weight determination engine 136b, and a profile management engine 136c.

[0074] The context determination engine 132 is configured to determine multiple contexts, such as, for example, a location-based context, a device-based context, a network-based context, etc. In addition, the context determination engine 132 also determines multiple context parameters associated with the multiple contexts. The multiple context parameters are, for example, at least one of the location of the electronic device 100, the type of the dialed number, the rate plan of multiple profiles, the signal strength associated with the multiple profiles, the user history, etc. The electronic device 100 displays the multiple contexts determined by the context determination engine 132 on the display 150 of the electronic device 100. In addition, the electronic device 100 also allows the user to deselect at least one context from the multiple contexts determined by the context determination engine 132. When the user deselects at least one context from the multiple contexts determined by the context determination engine 132, the arbitration module 136 determines the context weights excluding the deselected at least one context from the multiple contexts.

[0075] The location-based functionality management engine 134 is configured to determine the location of the electronic device 100 based on a signal obtained from a global positioning system (GPS) or an internal protocol (IP) address of the electronic device 100. In addition, the location of the electronic device 100 is used to determine the GDPR enactment to be applied based on the location. The GDPR enactment is jurisdiction-specific and therefore dynamic relative to the location of the electronic device 100. For example, when the electronic device 100 is operated in India, the GDPR enactment is consistent with the Indian legal system. When the same electronic device 100 is operated in Japan, the GDPR enactment is consistent with the Japanese legal system.

[0076] The arbitration module 136 is configured to determine a context weight for each of the determined contexts and a profile weight for each of the plurality of profiles. In addition, the arbitration module 136 is configured to determine a second profile to be enabled from the plurality of profiles based on the profile weights.

[0077] The context weight determination engine 136a is configured to receive multiple contexts from the context determination engine 132 and multiply each of the multiple contexts by the weight of each of the multiple contexts. Consider multiple contexts C1, C2, C3, and C4 having weights W1, W2, W3, and W4, respectively. For example, with respect to the first profile P1, a first context weight W1 of the first context C1 can be obtained by applying a corresponding weight factor (e.g., 1) to the first context weight W1, a second context weight W2 of the second context C2 can be obtained by applying a corresponding weight factor (e.g., 0) to the second context weight W2, a third context weight W3 of the third context C3 can be obtained by applying a corresponding weight factor (e.g., 1) to the third context weight W3, a fourth context weight W4 of the fourth context C4 can be obtained by applying a corresponding weight factor (e.g., 1) to the fourth context weight W4, and a fifth context weight W5 of the fifth context C5 can be obtained by applying a corresponding weight factor (e.g., 0) to the fifth context weight W5.

[0078] The profile weight determination engine 136b is configured to determine the profile weights V1, V2, V3, etc. for each of the profiles P1, P2, P3, etc. by combining all of the determined context weights (e.g., as Figure 1C V1=W1+W3+W4) as described in .

[0079] The profile management engine 136c is configured to determine the most suitable profile (eg, the second profile) based on the profile weight determined by the profile weight determination engine 136b. Then, the profile management engine 136c automatically enables the second profile in the electronic device 100 and automatically disables the first profile in the electronic device 100.

[0080] In another embodiment, the profile management engine 136c is configured to display a recommendation of the second profile and an active icon that enables activation of the second profile on the display 150 of the electronic device 100. Thus, the user is allowed to manually select and enable the second profile recommended by the profile management engine 136c. In addition, in the event that the user chooses not to enable the second profile recommended by the profile management engine 136c, the electronic device 100 continues to operate on the first profile.

[0081] Figure 1C A method of determining profile weights of a plurality of profiles in the electronic device 100 according to an embodiment disclosed herein is shown.

[0082] refer to Figure 1CIn step 1 (circled number 1), a plurality of contexts C1, C2, C3, C4 are determined by the context determination engine 132. In addition, the context determination engine 132 also determines whether a particular context is applicable to a particular profile. Figure 1C As shown, context C2 is not applicable to profile P1, and context C4 is not applicable to profile P2. By default, context determination engine 132 considers all contexts associated with electronic device 100. However, in the event that a user of electronic device 100 manually deselects any context associated with electronic device 100, the context deselected by the user will not be applicable to a particular profile.

[0083] In step 2 (circled number 2 ), the weight of each applicable context in the plurality of applicable contexts (eg, weight W1 for context C1 , weight W3 for context C3 , and weight W4 for context C4 ) is determined by arbitration module 136 .

[0084] In step 3 (circled number 3), the context weights of the multiple contexts are obtained as follows:

[0085] Context weight of context C1 = W1(1)

[0086] Context weight of context C3 = W3(2)

[0087] Context weight of context C4 = W4 etc. (3)

[0088] At step (circled number 4), a profile weight for each of the plurality of profiles is obtained by combining all determined context weights as follows:

[0089] For profile P1, the profile weight is:

[0090] V1=W1+W3+W4+...(4)

[0091] Similarly, for profile P2, the profile weight is:

[0092] V2=W2+Wn...(5)

[0093] Similarly, profile weights V3, V4, V5, etc. are determined by the arbitration module 136 of the electronic device 100. The profile weights are used to determine a second profile from among a plurality of profiles, wherein the second profile is enabled and the first profile is disabled.

[0094] Figure 2 is a flow chart 200 of a method for automatically switching between multiple profiles in an eSIM 120 of an electronic device 100 according to embodiments disclosed herein.

[0095] refer to Figure 2In step 202, when a first profile among a plurality of profiles is enabled in the electronic device 100, the electronic device 100 determines a plurality of contexts of the electronic device 100. For example, in the case Figure 1A In the illustrated electronic device 100 , the processor 130 may be configured to determine a plurality of contexts of the electronic device 100 when a first profile of a plurality of profiles is enabled in the electronic device 100 .

[0096] At step 204, the electronic device 100 determines a context weight for each of the plurality of contexts by combining a weight factor with each context of the electronic device 100. Figure 1A In the illustrated electronic device 100 , the processor 130 may be configured to determine a context weight for each of a plurality of contexts by applying a weight factor to each of the contexts of the electronic device 100 .

[0097] In step 206, the electronic device 100 determines the profile weight by combining all determined context weights. Figure 1A In the illustrated electronic device 100 , the processor 130 may be configured to determine the profile weight by combining all determined context weights.

[0098] In step 208, the electronic device 100 determines a second profile from the plurality of profiles based on the profile weights. Figure 1A In the illustrated electronic device 100 , the processor 130 may be configured to determine a second profile from among a plurality of profiles based on the profile weights.

[0099] In step 210, the electronic device 100 automatically disables the first profile in the electronic device 100. Figure 1A In the illustrated electronic device 100 , the processor 130 may be configured to automatically disable the first profile in the electronic device 100 .

[0100] In step 212, the electronic device 100 automatically enables the second profile in the electronic device 100. Figure 1A In the illustrated electronic device 100 , the processor 130 may be configured to automatically enable the second profile in the electronic device 100 .

[0101] The various actions, actions, blocks, steps, etc. in the method can be performed in the order presented, in a different order, or simultaneously. In addition, in some embodiments, some actions, actions, blocks, steps, etc. can be omitted, added, modified, skipped, etc. without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0102] Figure 3A plurality of electronic devices are shown in synchronization, wherein a plurality of contexts are determined by the electronic device 100 in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein.

[0103] In an embodiment, all software components of the arbitration module 136 may be included in the first electronic device 100. In another embodiment, the software components of the arbitration module 136 may be located in a plurality of distributed electronic devices, wherein the plurality of distributed electronic devices may be connected to / communicate with each other through various protocols for communication, or may be synchronized through a common account.

[0104] refer to Figure 3 , the network system according to the embodiment may include a first electronic device 100a, a second electronic device 100b, and a cloud server 1000 that are synchronized with each other. Then, the arbitration module 136 may not be completely located in the processor 130 of the first electronic device 100a. Instead, one or more components of the arbitration module 136 are distributed among the first electronic device 100a, the second electronic device 100b, and the cloud server 1000.

[0105] The presence of the components of the arbitration module 136 within multiple electronic devices enables comprehensive determination of multiple contexts of the electronic device 100 based on factors such as user history and user preferences. For example, if the user preference for accessing video content in the second electronic device 100b is Profile 2 (i.e., a specific telecommunications operator with a specific data plan), the same user preference can be applied in the first electronic device 100a while determining the best profile to use.

[0106] In step 1 (circled number 1), components of the arbitration module 136 monitor and determine multiple contexts specifically related to the first electronic device 100a. In step 2 (circled number 2), components of the arbitration module 136 evaluate, monitor and determine multiple contexts specifically related to the second electronic device 100b, which are different from the multiple contexts related to the first electronic device 100a. In step 3 (circled number 3), components of the arbitration module 136 located in the cloud server 1000 evaluate multiple contexts related to general data, such as general user preferences, recommendations from global surveys, etc. The first electronic device 100a determines the second profile to switch from the first profile based on the evaluation of all components of the arbitration module 136, which can be located in various locations.

[0107] Therefore, unlike conventional methods and systems in which switching between various profiles of the eSIM 120 is manually performed by a user, in the proposed method, switching is automatically performed by considering a comprehensive context associated with the electronic device 100 .

[0108] Figure 4An example scenario for switching from a first profile to a second profile in the electronic device 100 based on the type of a phone number according to an embodiment disclosed herein is shown.

[0109] For example, the electronic device 100 may include a plurality of profiles (profile SIM 1, profile SIM 2, profile SIM 3, etc.).

[0110] refer to Figure 4 In step 402, the electronic device 100 determines that the profile SIM 1 is currently enabled, which profile SIM 1 is, for example, a "personal profile". Consider that a user dials a phone number using the electronic device 100.

[0111] In step 404, the electronic device 100 identifies the type of the telephone number dialed by the user as a "corporate number". For example, the memory 140 of the electronic device 100 may store a telephone number and a type of telephone number (e.g., a home telephone number, a work telephone number, a home fax number, a work fax number, etc.) in association with each other. When a telephone number is input, the processor 130 may retrieve the type of the telephone number from the memory 140 by looking up the type associated with the input telephone number. In another example, the electronic device 100 may identify the type of the telephone number by communicating with an external database containing telephone numbers and associated telephone number types. The user designates profile SIM 4 as a corporate profile. In addition, the electronic device 100 determines the profile weights of a plurality of profiles, i.e., the profile weight of profile SIM 1, the profile weight of profile SIM 2, the profile weight of profile SIM 3, the profile weight of profile SIM 4, etc., and determines profile SIM 4 as a corporate profile among the plurality of profiles based on the profile weight of profile SIM 4.

[0112] At step 406a, the electronic device 100 automatically switches from profile SIM1 to profile SIM4 by disabling profile SIM1 and automatically enabling profile SIM4.

[0113] In another embodiment, at step 406b, after determining profile SIM 4 as the corporate profile among multiple profiles, the electronic device 100 provides a message on the screen recommending switching to profile SIM 4 as the corporate profile. The user can manually enable profile SIM 4 and disable profile SIM 1 on the electronic device 100.

[0114] The electronic device 100 also allows the user to create customized types for different company profiles (such as company profile 1, company profile 2, etc.). In addition, the electronic device 100 will automatically switch to the corresponding company profile based on the phone number dialed by the user.

[0115] Figure 5An example scenario for automatically switching from a first profile to a second profile in the electronic device 100 based on the context of a signal strength of a network according to an embodiment disclosed herein is shown.

[0116] Signal strength is an important parameter for the electronic device 100 to remain connected to the network. A weak signal affects the user experience and causes the battery of the electronic device 100 to be exhausted. When the electronic device 100 has a low battery or when power saving is required, a profile with a strong signal strength is required to avoid battery exhaustion. In addition, an electronic device 100 such as a wearable device may need to have a profile with a strong signal strength to avoid any possible battery problems.

[0117] Consider that the electronic device 100 has multiple profiles (eg, profile SIM 1 , profile SIM 2 , profile SIM 3 , etc.), and profile SIM 1 is currently active in the electronic device 100 .

[0118] refer to Figure 5 , at step 502 , the electronic device 100 determines, based on the context weight, that the signal strength of the profile SIM 1 currently active on the electronic device 100 is weak.

[0119] At step 504, the electronic device 100 determines the profile weights of the multiple profiles having higher context weights for the signal strength context. In addition, the electronic device 100 determines that profile SIM 2 has the highest weight among the multiple profiles with respect to the signal strength context. Therefore, the electronic device 100 automatically switches from profile SIM 1 to profile SIM 2 by disabling profile SIM 1 and automatically enabling profile SIM 2.

[0120] Figure 6 An example scenario for automatically switching from a first profile to a second profile in the electronic device 100 based on data availability in the first profile according to embodiments disclosed herein is shown.

[0121] Consider that the electronic device 100 has multiple profiles (eg, profile SIM 1, profile SIM 2, profile SIM 3, etc.), and profile SIM 1 is currently active in the electronic device 100. Consider that a user wants to download a video with a file size of 180MB from a server.

[0122] refer to Figure 6 , when the electronic device 100 receives a user command to download a video, the electronic device 100 determines whether the available data in the profile SIM 1 is insufficient to download the video. In this scenario, the electronic device 100 determines that the available data in the profile SIM 1 is only 175MB, and therefore insufficient to download the video with a file size of 180MB.

[0123] The electronic device 100 determines the profile weights of the multiple profiles with higher context weights of the data availability context. In addition, the electronic device 100 determines that the profile SIM 2 has the highest weight among the multiple profiles with respect to the data availability context (i.e., the profile SIM 2 has data availability greater than or equal to 180MB to complete the task of downloading the video). Therefore, the electronic device 100 automatically switches from the profile SIM 1 to the profile SIM 2 by disabling the profile SIM 1 and automatically enabling the profile SIM 2 to achieve seamless video downloading.

[0124] Figure 7 An example scenario for automatically switching from a first profile to a second profile in the electronic device 100 based on multiple contexts according to an embodiment disclosed herein is shown.

[0125] Consider that the electronic device 100 has multiple profiles (eg, profile SIM 1 , profile SIM 2 , profile SIM 3 , etc.), and the first profile is profile SIM 1 that is currently active in the electronic device 100 .

[0126] refer to Figure 7 , at step 702 , the electronic device 100 determines that the profile SIM 1 is the default data preference profile in the electronic device 100 .

[0127] At step 704, the electronic device 100 determines the profile weights of the multiple profiles with higher context weights of user preference and one number experience. One number experience refers to a scenario where a primary electronic device (e.g., a smart phone) and a secondary electronic device (e.g., a smart watch) operate independently of each other. However, the primary electronic device and the secondary electronic device use the same Mobile Station International Subscriber Directory Number (MSISDN), and therefore both will receive the incoming call together (through a standard call forking process supported by the MNO), and whichever device will answer the incoming call first will assume control.

[0128] In addition, based on the profile weights, the electronic device 100 determines that profile SIM 2 has the highest weight for data related activities based on the contextual weights of user preferences and one number experience. Therefore, the electronic device 100 automatically switches from profile SIM 1 to profile SIM 2 by disabling profile SIM 1 and automatically enabling profile SIM 2.

[0129] Figure 8 An example scenario for automatically switching from a first profile to a second profile in an electronic device 100 based on a location of the electronic device 100 according to an embodiment disclosed herein is illustrated.

[0130] Consider that the electronic device 100 has multiple profiles, i.e., Profile SIM 1, Profile SIM 2, Profile SIM 3, etc. Consider that the user has defined multiple geo-fenced areas based on preferences. For example, consider that the user has geo-fenced areas based on various states. Also consider that the user is mobile and enters a geo-fenced area (Location 1).

[0131] refer to Figure 8 In step 802, the electronic device 100 determines that profile SIM 1 is currently enabled and the user has entered the geo-fenced area (location 1). In addition, the electronic device 100 monitors multiple contexts, such as user preferences, validity of profiles, location of the electronic device 100, signal strength, data availability, etc.

[0132] Then, the electronic device 100 determines the context weights of the plurality of contexts, and calculates the profile weight of each of profile SIM 1, profile SIM 2, profile SIM 3, etc. by combining all the determined context weights. In addition, the electronic device 100 determines that profile SIM 4 is the best profile among the plurality of profiles based on user preferences, locations visited by the user, and tariff plans applicable to the area, etc. In addition, in step 804, the electronic device 100 automatically switches from profile SIM 1 to profile SIM 4 by disabling profile SIM 1 and automatically enabling profile SIM 4.

[0133] Similarly, consider that the user has a dedicated office profile in the eSIM 120 to be used when the user is at work. The electronic device 100 is configured to automatically switch from the currently active profile to the dedicated office profile when the electronic device 100 detects that the user has entered the work location based on the location context parameter.

[0134] In another embodiment, in the eSIM 120 of the electronic device 100 , the user's action of rushing into the office can be used as a trigger to automatically enable the dedicated office profile, and the user's action of rushing out of the office can be used as a trigger to automatically disable the dedicated office profile.

[0135] Fig. 9 An example scenario for automatically switching from a first profile to a second profile in the electronic device 100 based on the validity of the profile according to an embodiment disclosed herein is shown.

[0136] Consider that the electronic device 100 has multiple profiles (ie, profile SIM 1, profile SIM 2, profile SIM 3, etc.).

[0137] refer to Fig. 9, the electronic device 100 determines that the profile SIM 1 is currently enabled and active. In addition, at step 902, the electronic device 100 determines that the validity of the profile SIM 1 has expired while monitoring multiple contexts such as the validity of the profile, the location of the electronic device 100, signal strength, data availability, etc.

[0138] Then, the electronic device 100 determines the context weights of the plurality of contexts, and calculates the profile weight of each of profile SIM 2, profile SIM 3, etc. by combining all the determined context weights except the invalid profile SIM 1. In addition, the electronic device 100 determines that profile SIM 2 is the best profile among the plurality of profiles based on the profile weights. In addition, in step 904, the electronic device 100 automatically switches from profile SIM 1 to profile SIM 2.

[0139] Unlike conventional methods and systems, in the proposed method, the electronic device 100 seamlessly switches from the first profile and enables a valid second profile to be active in the electronic device 100. Therefore, the proposed method ensures continuity of user services and provides a seamless user experience.

[0140] Although not limited thereto, the example embodiments may be embodied as computer-readable code on a computer-readable recording medium. A computer-readable recording medium is any data storage device that can store data that can thereafter be read by a computer system. Examples of computer-readable recording media include read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), CD-ROM, magnetic tape, floppy disk, and optical data storage devices. The computer-readable recording medium may also be distributed on a network-coupled computer system so that the computer-readable code is stored and executed in a distributed manner. In addition, the example embodiments may be written as a computer program transmitted by a computer-readable transmission medium such as a carrier wave, and received and implemented in a general-purpose or special-purpose digital computer that executes the program. In addition, it will be understood that in the example embodiments, one or more units of the above-mentioned apparatus and equipment may include circuits, processors, microprocessors, etc., and may execute a computer program stored in a computer-readable medium.

[0141] The foregoing exemplary embodiments are merely exemplary and are not to be construed as limiting. This teaching can be easily applied to other types of devices. In addition, the description of the exemplary embodiments is intended to be illustrative rather than limiting the scope of the claims, and many substitutions, modifications, and variations will be clear to those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A method for automatically switching between multiple embedded subscriber identity module (eSIM) profiles in an electronic device, the method comprising: determining a plurality of initial contexts of the electronic device when a first eSIM profile of the plurality of eSIM profiles is enabled in the electronic device; based on deselecting at least one context from the plurality of initial contexts, obtaining a plurality of remaining contexts by excluding the deselected at least one context; determining a context weight for each of the plurality of remaining contexts of the electronic device by applying a weight factor to each of the plurality of remaining contexts; determining a profile weight for each of the plurality of eSIM profiles by combining all determined context weights; determining, based on the profile weights, a second eSIM profile having a highest profile weight from among the plurality of eSIM profiles; as well as Automatically switching from the first eSIM profile to the second eSIM profile in the electronic device.

2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: The second eSIM profile is displayed on a screen of the electronic device along with the plurality of remaining contexts used to determine the profile weight.

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein: Automatically switching from the first eSIM profile to the second eSIM profile in the electronic device includes: automatically disabling the first eSIM profile in the electronic device; and The second eSIM profile is automatically enabled in the electronic device.

4. The method according to claim 1, wherein: Determining the second eSIM profile includes: determining a current location of the electronic device; and The second eSIM profile is determined among the plurality of eSIM profiles based on a user history, wherein the user history indicates an eSIM profile frequently used by a user at a current location of the electronic device.

5. The method according to claim 1, wherein: Determining the second eSIM profile includes determining the second eSIM profile based on a signal strength of each of the plurality of eSIM profiles.

6. The method according to claim 1, wherein: The multiple initial contexts of the electronic device are dynamically determined based on multiple context parameters of the electronic device.

7. The method according to claim 1, wherein: The weighting factors are dynamically determined based on a plurality of context parameters of the electronic device.

8. The method according to claim 6 or 7, wherein: The plurality of context parameters include at least one of a location of the electronic device, a dialed number, rate policies of the plurality of eSIM profiles, signal strengths associated with the plurality of eSIM profiles, user history, and user preferences.

9. The method according to claim 1, wherein: The plurality of initial contexts include at least one of a location-based context, a device-based context, and a network-based context.

10. An electronic device for automatically switching between multiple embedded subscriber identity module (eSIM) profiles in an electronic device, the electronic device comprising a processor configured to: determining a plurality of initial contexts of the electronic device when a first eSIM profile of the plurality of eSIM profiles is enabled in the electronic device; based on deselecting at least one context from the plurality of initial contexts, obtaining a plurality of remaining contexts by excluding the deselected at least one context; determining a context weight for each of the plurality of remaining contexts of the electronic device by applying a weight factor to each of the plurality of remaining contexts; determining a profile weight for each of the plurality of eSIM profiles by combining all determined context weights; determining, based on the profile weights, a second eSIM profile having a highest profile weight from among the plurality of eSIM profiles; as well as Automatically switching from the first eSIM profile to the second eSIM profile in the electronic device.

11. The electronic device according to claim 10, further comprising a display, in, The processor is further configured to: The display is controlled to display the second eSIM profile along with the plurality of remaining contexts used to determine the profile weight.

12. The electronic device according to claim 10, wherein: The processor is further configured to: automatically disabling the first eSIM profile in the electronic device; and The second eSIM profile is automatically enabled in the electronic device.

13. The electronic device according to claim 10, wherein: The multiple initial contexts of the electronic device are dynamically determined based on multiple context parameters of the electronic device.

14. The electronic device according to claim 10, wherein: The weighting factors are dynamically determined based on a plurality of context parameters of the electronic device.

15. The electronic device according to claim 13 or 14, wherein: The plurality of context parameters include at least one of a location of the electronic device, a dialed number, rate policies of the plurality of eSIM profiles, signal strengths associated with the plurality of eSIM profiles, user history, and user preferences.

16. The electronic device according to claim 10, wherein: The plurality of initial contexts include at least one of a location-based context, a device-based context, and a network-based context.

17. The electronic device according to claim 10, wherein: The processor is further configured to determine the second eSIM profile among the plurality of eSIM profiles based on a user history, wherein the user history indicates an eSIM profile frequently used by a user at a current location of the electronic device.

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