Network establishment, activation and management

Abstract

The present disclosure provides solutions for (i) managing a cellular network connection of a subscriber to provide the subscriber with optimal selection of the cellular network (ii) establishing a cellular roaming network connection between a subscriber and a cellular network provider; and (iii) activating a cellular plan of a roaming-based network in a mobile device of a user.

Description

[0001] NETWORK ESTABLISHMENT, ACTIVATION AND MANAGEMENT

[0002] TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure is in the field of cellular networks, in particular the establishment of a connection between a cellular network provider and a subscriber and the management of the cellular network connection of the subscriber.

[0004] BACKGROUND ART

[0005] In order to store the provisioning data that allows wireless communication devices to communicate with a cellular network, wireless communication devices may utilize a subscriber identity module (SIM) provided on a smart card such as a universal integrated circuit card (UICC). Traditionally, the SIM performs an Authentication and Key Agreement (AKA) procedure, which verifies and decrypts the applicable data and programs to ensure secure initialization.

[0006] During travel, users may obtain and install local SIM cards in their mobile communication devices in order to pay local call rates in the destination country. By using multiple SIMs, a user may take advantage of different service pricing plans and save on mobile data usage.

[0007] To overcome the costs and challenges of utilizing physical SIMs in a roaming environment, and to enable new services and subscription models, a wireless communication device may be configured with one or more embedded SIM (eSIM) that enables remote provisioning of SIM profiles. Specifically, remote provisioning may provide a typical SIM profile, including data, authentication algorithms, cryptographic keys, and other information that makes up a subscription.

[0008] Unlike traditional physical SIM cards that need to be inserted and removed manually, eSIMs are integrated into the device's hardware and can be remotely provisioned and managed.

[0009] With eSIMs, mobile network operators (MNOs) can remotely provision and activate the SIM profile on the device without the need for a physical SIM card. This allows for greater flexibility and convenience in acquiring and switching between mobile network services. Each mobile network operator or service provider has its own unique eSIM profiles, and they are specific to the operator's network and services. Switching to a different mobile network, requires obtaining and installing a new eSIM profile associated with that operator.

[0010] The process of managing and switching between eSIM profiles can usually be done through the device's settings menu or an associated mobile app provided by the manufacturer or mobile network operator.

[0011] An eSIM supports the storage and management of multiple SIM profiles on a single device. This means that users can have profiles from different operators or regions on the same device and switch between them as needed. eSIM capability is built into the device during manufacturing. Not all devices support eSIMs, so it is important to check device specifications to determine if it has eSIM functionality. eSIM profiles can be activated through QR code provisioning or over-the-air (OTA) provisioning methods. QR code activation involves scanning a QR code containing the necessary profile information, while OTA provisioning enables remote activation without the need for a physical QR code.

[0012] With respect to QR code provisioning, the mobile network operator (MNO) or eSIM service provider generates a QR code that contains the required details for activating the eSIM profile. This includes network credentials, encryption keys, and other relevant information.

[0013] The QR code is then presented to the user via different channels. It can be displayed on a physical card or sent electronically through email, messaging apps, or the operator's website or app.

[0014] The user scans the QR code using the device's built-in camera or a dedicated eSIM provisioning app. The app recognizes the QR code and extracts the encoded information.

[0015] After the QR code is successfully scanned, the device's operating system processes the extracted information and installs the eSIM profile. The profile is securely stored in the device's eSIM module.

[0016] Once the eSIM profile is installed, the device establishes a secure connection to the MNO's network using the provided network credentials. This can be initiated automatically or manually by the user, depending on the device and configuration.

[0017] With the eSIM profile activated, the device can now connect to the MNO's network and access voice, data, and other network services. Multiple eSIM profiles can be stored on the device, allowing users to switch between different operators or networks as desired. eSIM technology makes it easier for users to access mobile network services while traveling internationally. They can simply download and activate a local operator's eSIM profile without having to physically switch SIM cards. In some cases, a single eSIM profile may include an international service coverage in a plurality of countries and regions. Namely, a single cellular service provider or mobile virtual network operator can provide cellular services in multiple countries under a single eSIM profile. This can be achieved based on many roaming agreements that the service provider has throughout the world.

[0018] Common parameters that may be included in an eSIM QR code are as follows:

[0019] Profile Name: A human-readable name or label for the eSIM profile. This helps users identify and manage multiple eSIM profiles on their device.

[0020] Operator Name: The name or identifier of the mobile network operator associated with the eSIM profile. It indicates the network that the eSIM will connect to.

[0021] Network Access Information: This includes the necessary network access credentials, such as the Access Point Name (APN), username, and password. These details are used to establish a data connection with the MNO's network.

[0022] Encryption Keys: If applicable, encryption keys may be included in the QR code to enable secure communication between the device and the MNO's network.

[0023] IMSI (International Mobile Subscriber Identity): The IMSI is a unique identifier assigned to a SIM card or eSIM. Including the IMSI in the QR code helps streamline the activation process, as it associates the eSIM with a specific user account.

[0024] SM-DP+ Address: The SM-DP+ (Subscription Management Data Preparation) address is the server address where the device will retrieve the eSIM profile and other related information during provisioning.

[0025] Activation Code: In some cases, an activation code or token may be included in the QR code. This code serves as an additional security measure or verification step during the eSIM activation process.

[0026] Additional Configuration: Depending on the specific requirements of the MNO or service provider, other configuration parameters may be included, such as preferred network settings, service plan details, roaming preferences, or other network-specific options. GENERAL DESCRIPTION

[0027] The present disclosure provides solutions for (i) managing a cellular network connection of a subscriber to provide the subscriber with optimal selection of the cellular network (ii) establishing a cellular roaming network connection between a subscriber and a cellular network provider; and (iii) activating a cellular plan of a roaming-based network in a mobile device of a user.

[0028] The term "cellular network provider" is interchangeable throughout the application with the term "mobile network operator" (MNO) and service provider and it should be understood as any service provider in the field of cellular networks, whether it has its own cellular antennas or using those of others. It is to be noted that cellular antennas can be terrestrial antennas or can be satellite-based antennas.

[0029] As for the first solution of the present disclosure, the selection of a cellular network for a mobile device or for a subscriber may be influenced by many parameters. The selection of the cellular network is a crucial process that determines which type of network (e.g., 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G) and which network carrier the device should be connected to, based on various parameters and priorities. For example, such parameters may include:

[0030] Preferred Network Settings: Users can specify their preferred network type in the device settings. For example, a user may choose to prioritize 4G over 3G or restrict the device to 2G-only mode.

[0031] Network Roaming: Devices may connect to networks from other carriers when their home network is unavailable. This is common when traveling internationally, although can also occur in the home country of the user when the user reaches a location in which its own carrier does not provide service, for example when a user from one state in the USA travels to a different state. Roaming settings and agreements between carriers play a role in this selection.

[0032] SIM Card and Carrier: The SIM card inserted in the device contains information about the user's carrier and subscription. Devices will prioritize connecting to the home carrier's network. If the home network is not available, it may connect to a roaming partner or another available carrier. Network Quality: Devices may consider the quality and capacity of a network in addition to signal strength. Factors like network congestion, data speed, and latency can influence network selection.

[0033] Preferred Network Lists: Mobile devices often maintain lists of preferred networks. These lists can be based on user preferences, historical connection data, and carrier profiles. Devices will prioritize networks on this list when available.

[0034] Network Operator Policies: Mobile carriers can implement policies that influence network selection. For example, a carrier may prioritize its own towers over roaming partners.

[0035] Network Mode: Devices can support various network modes such as automatic, manual, or specific bands. Users can manually select a network or let the device choose automatically.

[0036] Upon selection of a cellular network, the device may connect to said selected cellular network through a connection process. The connection process may include multiple layers of authentication, encryption, signal evaluation, and resource allocation to ensure a stable and secure connection. The connection process may include the following:

[0037] - Registration: The device sends out signals to nearby cell towers (base stations) to establish a connection. This process is known as registration.

[0038] Cell Selection: The device receives responses from multiple cell towers in the area. It evaluates the strength and quality of these signals and selects the strongest one. This tower becomes the serving cell or the base station with which the device will communicate.

[0039] Authentication and Encryption: Once the device selects a cell tower, it needs to establish its identity to the network. This is done through a process of authentication. The device and the network exchange encrypted information to verify the device's legitimacy. This step ensures that only authorized devices can access the network.

[0040] - Network Attachment: After successful authentication, the mobile device becomes attached to the cellular network. This means it's now ready to send and receive data, voice calls, and other services provided by the network.

[0041] Assigning a Temporary Mobile Identity: To keep track of devices on the network, each device is assigned a temporary mobile identity, such as Temporary Mobile Subscriber Identity (TMSI) or Packet Temporary Mobile Subscriber Identity (P- TMSI). This identity is used for communication to maintain privacy and security.

[0042] Assignment of Resources: The network allocates specific resources to the device, such as frequency channels and time slots in the case of older cellular technologies like GSM. These resources are used for communication.

[0043] - Data Transfer: Once the device is attached and resources are allocated, it can engage in data transfer. This includes making voice calls, sending text messages, and using data services like internet browsing or app usage.

[0044] As for the second solution of the present disclosure, when a mobile device connects to a roaming network, it means that the device is outside its home network's coverage area and is attempting to connect to a different network operated by a different service provider. Roaming allows users to maintain cellular connectivity even when they are traveling or in areas where their home network does not have coverage.

[0045] The process of connecting to a roaming network may involve the following:

[0046] - Network Scanning: When a mobile device moves into an area where its home network doesn't have coverage, it starts scanning for available networks. This scanning process involves searching for nearby cell towers (base stations) that belong to other service providers.

[0047] Available Roaming Networks: The mobile device detects the available roaming networks by identifying their broadcasted signals. These networks are typically indicated on the device's screen as available networks for selection.

[0048] - Network Selection: The user or the device's settings may determine whether the device should connect to a roaming network automatically or manually. If set to automatic, the device will prioritize the strongest and most suitable roaming network. If set to manual, the user can choose which roaming network to connect to.

[0049] Authentication and Authorization: After selecting a roaming network, the device attempts to connect to it. The device sends authentication and identification information to the roaming network. This information includes the device's International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) and possibly other credentials provided by the home network.

[0050] The roaming process may vary depending on the cellular technology (e.g., 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G) and agreements between different service providers. Additionally, roaming charges and compatibility with different networks may also be considerations for users when choosing to connect to a roaming network.

[0051] The third solution of the present disclosure provides a unique method for allowing selling a global network plan by retailers with a physical package. The method links the purchased plan associated with physical package with the specific eSIM that is provided by using an activation code that is found on the physical package, such that it ensures that a specific plan is loaded to a specific eSIM.

[0052] A first aspect of the present disclosure provides a method for managing communication between a device and a plurality of available cellular networks providing cellular connection. The advantage provided by this invention aspect is to provide mobile virtual network operators or cellular network providers the ability to control the automatic selection of networks in a user's mobile according to their preferences, whether it is to provide the best connectivity in a certain location, to manage the use of networks based on costs considerations, or to provide the best network type (e.g. 5G). The method comprises receiving network data that comprises subscribers connectivity data comprising connectivity history profiles of each of the plurality of subscribers to any one of said plurality of cellular networks. It is to be noted that a subscriber may not have any connectivity history profile to one or more of the cellular networks from said plurality of cellular networks. The method further comprises analyzing said network data to thereby generate ranking data indicative of a ranking of the connectivity quality of each of the plurality of cellular networks; and selecting a first selected cellular network from said plurality of available cellular networks based on said ranking data. Therefore, the ranking data provides prioritization for selection of the available cellular networks based on the network data.

[0053] It is to be noted that any combination of the described embodiments with respect to any aspect of this present disclosure is applicable. In other words, any aspect of the present disclosure can be defined by any combination of the described embodiments.

[0054] In some embodiments of the method, said connectivity history profiles comprises connectivity history profiles of each of the plurality of subscribers to any one of said plurality of cellular networks in association with location of the subscriber. Namely, the connectivity profile comprises information of the location of the subscriber and the connection he / she had with a specific cellular network. In some embodiments of the method, said connectivity history profiles comprises disconnection profiles of the subscriber with any one of said plurality of cellular networks indicative of at least one of: number of disconnections and duration of disconnection. The duration of the disconnection is determined by the time that took the subscriber from the loss of connectivity with a specific cellular network until the connectivity returned with the specific cellular network.

[0055] In some embodiments of the method, said disconnection profiles comprises disconnection location data indicative of the location of each disconnection.

[0056] In some embodiments of the method, said analyzing comprises applying a function to said disconnection profiles to thereby generate said ranking data.

[0057] In some embodiments of the method, said applying a function to said disconnection profiles comprises applying a weight-based function to at least one of said number of disconnections and said duration of disconnection.

[0058] In some embodiments of the method, said applying a function to said disconnection profiles comprises extracting the network with the minimum of at least one of: number of disconnections and a minimum average of duration of disconnections.

[0059] In some embodiments, the method further comprises obtaining device location; wherein the method further comprises identifying in said connectivity history profiles location-correlated profiles that are correlated with the device location. Said analyzing comprises analyzing said location-correlated profiles and generating location-correlated ranking data indicative of the ranking of the connectivity quality of each of the plurality of available cellular networks in a selected geographical area that comprises the device location and also the surrounding of the device location. The selected geographical area can be defined by certain known boundaries, such as municipal boundaries or borders between different countries or states, or any other rule-based definition of the area in the surrounding of the device.

[0060] In some embodiments of the method, upon a decrease of the ranking of the connectivity quality of said first selected cellular network below a selected ranking threshold with respect to a second cellular network, the method further comprises selecting said second cellular network to replace the first selected cellular network. Thus, the method comprises constantly updating the selection of the cellular network to provide the optimal cellular connectivity to the user. In some embodiments of the method, said network data comprises pricing data indicative of the pricing of each of the plurality of cellular networks. It is to be noted that the pricing refers to the cost of the mobile virtual network operator or cellular network provider for using the network of a mobile network operator. Said analyzing comprises assigning weight factors to said pricing data and said subscribers connectivity data to thereby generate said ranking data. In other words, the ranking is performed based on a matrix of the connectivity quality of the network and the price of the network. Therefore, the ranking of each network increases when its price is lower, and its connectivity quality is better.

[0061] In some embodiments of the method, said network data comprises technology standard type data indicative of the technology standard type (e.g. 3G, 4G, 5G) of each network of the plurality of cellular networks. Said analyzing comprises assigning weight factor to each network of the plurality of cellular networks based on its technology standard type network affecting its ranking. The higher the quality of the network type, the higher its effect on the ranking. Namely, 5G network receives the highest factor for the ranking, then 4G, 3G, etc. The ranking data is generated based on the subscribers connectivity data and the technology standard type data.

[0062] In some embodiments of the method, said plurality of cellular networks comprise different network providers, namely mobile network operators, and different technology standard types, e.g. 3G, 4G, 5G. Namely, the method takes into account all the available networks, whether they include networks provided by different mobile network operators or networks of different type that may be of the same mobile network operator.

[0063] Therefore, in some embodiments, the method comprises analyzing three types of data: subscribers connectivity data that indicates the connectivity quality of each available network, the pricing data that indicates the price of using each available network by the mobile virtual network operator or cellular network provider, and the technology standard type data that indicates the type of the network and the quality it can provide. Each type of data has its own effect on the generated ranking data, which indicates the order of preference of network selection for the user that is defined by the mobile virtual network operator.

[0064] Yet another aspect of the present disclosure provides a method for establishing a roaming-based network connection for a user. The method comprises receiving user destination data indicative of a user's non-origin destination plan in a non-origin destination, namely, a destination of a user that is not its origin, in which the user requires cellular network other than his / her origin network provider; in response to receiving said user destination data, sending the user a triggering digital item, wherein triggering of said digital item results in a subscription of said user to a network provider providing services in said non-origin destination; and wherein following said triggering, the method further comprises establishing the roaming-based network connection between the user and the network provider being usable by the user.

[0065] In some embodiments of the method, said digital item is a scannable pattern.

[0066] In some embodiments of the method, scannable pattern is a QR code.

[0067] In some embodiments, the method further comprises generating said destination data in response to a travel booking action of the user.

[0068] In some embodiments of the method, the travel booking action comprises at least one of a flight booking to, a hotel booking in, transportation service booking in, and / or attractions booking in such as certain venues or day trips in said non-origin destination, etc. Namely, any booking action that connects the user and its travel destination can be included in said travel booking action.

[0069] In some embodiments of the method, following said establishing, the method further comprises opening a communication between the user and the network provider that allows the user to select a network program from a plurality of network programs.

[0070] In some embodiments, the method further comprises, following said establishing, managing communication between a device of the user and a plurality of available cellular networks providing cellular connection. Said managing comprises: receiving subscribers connectivity data that comprises connectivity history profiles of each of the plurality of subscribers to any one of said plurality of cellular networks, it is to be noted that a subscriber may not have any connectivity data history connectivity profile to one of the cellular networks from said plurality of cellular networks; analyzing said subscribers connectivity data to thereby generate ranking data indicative of a ranking of the connectivity quality of each of the plurality of cellular networks; and selecting a first selected cellular network from said plurality of available cellular networks based on said ranking data.

[0071] In some embodiments, the method further comprises any one of the abovedescribed embodiments of the method to manage communication between a device and a plurality of available cellular networks providing cellular connection, or any combination thereof.

[0072] In some embodiments of the method, said travel booking action comprises or triggers the generation of travel booking data indicative of the travel booking platform that generated said travel booking action. The travel booking action may comprise sending the travel booking data. The method further comprises utilizing said travel booking data for allocating advertising slot for the travel booking platform generated said travel booking action in a mobile communication service of a mobile phone of the user, such as a mobile application or an SMS message.

[0073] In some embodiments of the method, said allocating comprises timing the advertising slot based on the preferences of the travel booking platform.

[0074] In some embodiments of the method, said timing comprises determining the location of the user and allocating said advertising slot when the user is located in a desired geographical area, namely applying geofencing techniques to provide the user with the advertisement when he / she is found in a defined area.

[0075] In some embodiments of the method, the mobile communication service is in the form of a browser pop-up. This can be triggered by an opening of the browser by the user or by a push pop-up that opens the browser of the user without any triggering activity of the user.

[0076] In some embodiments of the method, the mobile phone communication service is a message, either an SMS message or a message on a messaging platform, such as an instant messaging platform.

[0077] Yet another aspect of the present disclosure provides a method for activating a cellular plan of a roaming-based network in a mobile device of a user. The method comprises receiving activation data that comprises a request associated with an activation signature for activating a digital cellular plan platform, such as an eSIM, that provides said cellular plan in said mobile device. For example, this can an eSIM with a plan supporting the use of said roaming-based network. The activation data further comprises a correlation of said activation signature with a purchase label. The activation signature specifies a specific digital cellular plan platform, such as a specific eSIM. The method further comprises determining whether said purchase label is associated with a purchase data piece, typically stored in a database. Namely, the database comprises purchase data including a plurality of purchase data pieces, each is indicative of a purchase correlated with the activation code. The purchase data piece comprises (i) authorization of a purchase of said digital cellular plan platform, namely an authorization that the digital cellular plan platform was purchased, and (ii) parameters of the cellular plan. The method further comprises determining if a purchase data piece comprises said (i) authorization of a purchase of said digital cellular plan platform and (ii) parameters of the cellular plan, and if it does, the method comprises activating said digital cellular plan platform with said cellular plan based on said parameters of the cellular. It is to be noted that if no purchase data piece is found that comprises said (i) or (ii), there is no activation of the digital cellular plan platform in the mobile device. For example, if the digital cellular plan platform is an eSIM, if the user attempts to activate the eSIM by the activation code but there is no purchase data piece matching this eSIM, the eSIM will not be installed in the mobile device.

[0078] In some embodiments of the method, said activation signature and the purchase label are printed or applied on a single physical purchasable element.

[0079] In some embodiments of the method, said activation signature comprises an activation code.

[0080] In some embodiments of the method, said digital cellular plan platform is an eSIM.

[0081] In some embodiments of the method, said purchase label is a barcode.

[0082] In some embodiments of the method, the single physical purchasable element is a physical package. Said activation signature and said purchase label are printed or applied on said physical package. The purchase label is printed on an external surface of the physical package such that it is exposed to the surrounding and the activation signature is printed on a surface of the physical package that is exposed after performing manipulation on the physical package, such as an opening of the physical package, exposing its interior that comprises the activation code.

[0083] In some embodiments, the method further comprises receiving a plurality of purchase data pieces and storing them in a database; wherein said determining comprises identifying a purchase data piece from the plurality of data pieces that comprises said (i) and (ii).

[0084] In some embodiments of the method, said parameters of the cellular plan comprises any one of: price paid for the cellular plan, duration of the cellular plan, geographical coverage of the cellular plan, type of networks of the cellular plan, e.g. 4G or 5G, or any combination thereof.

[0085] In some embodiments, the method further comprises obtaining origin-destination data indicative of the origin destination of the user; wherein said activating said digital cellular plan platform with said cellular plan based on said parameters of the cellular comprises triggering the initiation of the cellular plan upon recognizing the presence of the user in a non-origin destination, namely, a destination other than its origin destination, in which the user requires a roaming-based network service.

[0086] In some embodiments of the method, the cellular plan is operable in a plurality of countries in different continents.

[0087] In some embodiments of the method, following said activating, the method further comprises managing communication between the mobile device and a plurality of available cellular networks providing cellular connection according to any one of the above-described embodiments of the method for managing communication between the mobile device and a plurality of available cellular networks providing cellular connection or any combination thereof

[0088] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0089] In order to better understand the subject matter that is disclosed herein and to exemplify how it may be carried out in practice, embodiments will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0090] Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a system to manage communication between a device and a plurality of available cellular networks, according to some embodiments of the disclosure;

[0091] Figs. 2A-2B are flowcharts of different embodiments of a method to manage communication between a device and a plurality of available cellular networks, according to an aspect of the present disclosure; and

[0092] Fig- 3 is a flowchart of a method for establishing a roaming-based network connection for a user, according to some embodiments of the disclosure. Fig- 4 is a block diagram exemplifying a physical package used in a method for activating a cellular plan of a roaming-based network in a mobile device of a user according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0093] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0094] The following figures are provided to exemplify embodiments and realization of the invention of the present disclosure.

[0095] Reference is now made to Fig. 1, which schematically illustrates a system 100 to manage communication between a device 101 and a plurality of available cellular networks 140, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0096] System 100 may include device 101, a network 150, a mobile network operator 130 and plurality of available cellular networks 140. Device 101 may include a processor 110 and an eSIM(s) module 120. Device 101 may communicate with mobile network operatorl30 and a plurality of available cellular networks 140 overnetwork 150. Network 150 may include one or more cellular networks (e.g., 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G networks).

[0097] It is to be noted that any reference to eSIM should be interpreted as encompassing also softSIM, Virtual SIM, Integrated SIM, or any variation of embedded SIM.

[0098] Reference is now made to Figs. 2A-2B, which is a flowchart of a method to manage communication between a device and a plurality of available cellular networks, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0099] The operations of Fig. 2A may be performed using the equipment of Fig. 1 and / or using any other suitable equipment.

[0100] In operation 200, a device (e.g., device 101 as described hereinabove) may receive network data that comprises subscribers’ connectivity data. Subscribers' connectivity data may include connectivity history profiles (e.g., connectivity history profiles 121 as shown in Fig. 1) of each of the plurality of subscribers to any one of said plurality of cellular networks (e.g., plurality of available cellular networks 140 as shown in Fig. 1). A subscriber may not have any connectivity history profile to one of the cellular networks from said plurality of cellular networks. A subscriber may use a device (e.g., a device similar to device 101 as shown in Fig. 1) to communicate with any one of said plurality of cellular networks. The connectivity history profiles may include connectivity history profiles of each of the plurality of subscribers to any one of said plurality of cellular networks in association with location of the subscriber. For example, the connectivity history profiles may include information of the location of the subscriber and the connection the subscriber has with a specific cellular network and the loss of connection with the specific cellular network and the location of the loss of connection. The location of the subscriber may be the location associated with the device used by the subscriber to communicate with any one of said plurality of cellular networks.

[0101] The connectivity history profiles may include disconnection profiles of the subscriber with any one of said plurality of cellular networks. Said disconnection profiles may be indicative of at least one of number of disconnections and duration of disconnection. For example, the duration of the disconnection may be determined as the time duration from the loss of connectivity of the subscriber with a specific cellular network until reestablishment of connectivity with the specific cellular network. The disconnection profiles may include disconnection location data indicative of the location of each disconnection.

[0102] In operation 202, a processor (e.g., processor 101 as shown in Fig. 1 and / or any other suitable remote processors that are not part of the device and can be part of the network operator) may analyze said network data. The processor may generate ranking data. The ranking data may be indicative of a ranking of the connectivity quality of each of the plurality of cellular networks (e.g., plurality of available cellular networks 140 as shown in Fig. 1).

[0103] The processor may apply a function to said disconnection profiles to thereby generate said ranking data. For example, the processor may apply a weight-based function to at least one of said number of disconnections and said duration of disconnection. Applying said function, may assign the highest rank to the network with the minimum of at least one of number of disconnections and a minimum average of duration of disconnections.

[0104] The processor may apply a machine-learning model to said disconnection profiles to thereby generate said ranking data. The machine-learning model may be trained on data comprising disconnection profiles. Applying said machine-learning model, may assign the highest rank to the network with the minimum of at least one of number of disconnections and a minimum average of duration of disconnections. The processor may obtain device location (e.g., from a global position system sensor and / or any other suitable geolocation device). The processor may identify in said connectivity history profiles location-correlated profiles that are correlated with the device location. The processor may analyze said location-correlated profiles. Based on the analysis, the processor may generate location-correlated ranking data. The location- correlated ranking data may be indicative of the ranking of the connectivity quality of each of the plurality of available cellular networks in a selected geographical area that comprises the device location. The selected geographical area may be defined by certain known boundaries, such as municipal boundaries or borders between different countries or states, or any other rule-based definition of the area in the vicinity of the device.

[0105] In operation 204, a processor (e.g., processor 101 as shown in Fig. 1 and / or any other suitable remote processors that are not part of the device and can be part of the network operator) may select a first selected cellular network from said plurality of available cellular networks based on said ranking data. For example, the processor may select a first selected cellular network from said plurality of available cellular networks with the minimum of at least one of: number of disconnections and a minimum average of duration of disconnections.

[0106] Upon selection of said first selected cellular network from said plurality of available cellular networks, the device (e.g., device 101 as described hereinabove) may connect to said first selected cellular network.

[0107] Upon a decrease of the ranking of the connectivity quality of said first selected cellular network below a selected ranking threshold with respect to a second cellular network, the processor may select said second cellular network to replace the first selected cellular network. The processor may periodically (or semi-periodically) update the selection of the cellular network to provide optimal cellular connectivity to the user.

[0108] Reference is now being made to Fig. 2B, which is a flow diagram of another embodiment of a method to manage communication between a device and a plurality of available cellular networks providing cellular connection according to an aspect of the present disclosure. The flow diagram of Fig. 2B differs from that of Fig. 2A by that the method further comprises assigning weight factors to data pieces of the network data 201. The network data may include three types of data: subscribers connectivity data that indicates the connectivity quality of each available network, the pricing data that indicates the price of using each available network by the mobile virtual network operator or cellular network provider, and the technology standard type data that indicates the type of the network and the quality it can provide. Each type of data has its own effect on the generated ranking data, which indicates the order of preference of network selection for the user that is defined by the mobile virtual network operator. Therefore, the method comprises receiving all network data related to considerations for selection of a network for a user by the mobile virtual network operator. The method comprises applying weight factors on different data pieces of the network data, namely the different types of data, that affects the analyzing of the network data and the generation of the ranking data.

[0109] Reference is now made to Fig. 3, which is a flowchart of a method to manage communication between a device and a plurality of available cellular networks, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0110] The operations of Fig. 3 may be performed using the equipment of Fig. 1 and / or using any other suitable equipment.

[0111] In operation 301, a device (e.g., device 101 as described hereinabove) may receive user destination data. User destination data may be indicative of a user's non-origin destination plan. For example, user destination data may be indicative of the destination plan of a user that is not its origin, in which the user requires cellular network other than its origin network provider.

[0112] The network provider may generate destination data in response to a travel booking action of the user. The travel booking action may include at least one of a flight booking to and / or a hotel booking in said non-origin destination.

[0113] In operation 302, a mobile network operator (e.g., mobile network operator 130 as shown in Fig. 1) may send the user a triggering digital item. For example, said digital item may be a scannable pattern. The scannable pattern may be a QR code. The user may trigger said digital item. For example the user may trigger said digital item by scanning said scannable pattern using a suitable sensor (e.g., a digital camera). Triggering said digital item may result in a subscription of said user to a network provider (e.g., mobile network operator 130 as shown in Fig. 1).

[0114] In operation 303, a processor may establish the roaming-based network connection between the user and the network provider (e.g., mobile network operator 130 as shown in Fig. 1). Following said establishing, the processor may open a communication link between the user and the network provider. The user may use the communication link to select a network program from a plurality of network programs. The processor may manage communication between a device of the user and a plurality of available cellular networks providing cellular connection (e.g., by implementing operations 201-203 of Fig. 2).

[0115] Reference is now being made to Fig. 5, which is a block diagram exemplifying the method of activating a cellular plan of a roaming-based network in a mobile device of a user, according to an embodiment of an aspect of the present disclosure. A physical package 500 is sold by a seller, such as a retailer, and comprises a barcode 502 and an activation code 504. During the occasion of the purchase of the physical package from the seller, the barcode 502 is exposed to the surrounding and is visible by the seller and the buyer, which is the user. At this stage, the activation code 504 is hidden and is not exposed to the seller or the buyer. For example, the package can be a folded box that hides the activation code in one of its internal surfaces while the barcode is found on the external surfaces. The activation code 504 and the barcode 502 can be printed on the package or applied on one or more of its surfaces. The barcode 502 and the activation code 504 defines together a unique pair, meaning that there is only a single package having these specific barcode 502 and activation code 504. When the package is purchased by the user, the barcode 502 is scanned and information of the purchase that is associated with this barcode 502 is sent, e.g. through an API of the seller, and is received in a database storing all purchase data that includes a plurality of purchase data pieces, each carrying information of a purchase of a specific physical package. After the purchase, the use exposes the activation code 504 and can use it in order to install an eSIM in its mobile device. In order to be able to install the eSIM and use the cellular plan it provides, a matching process is performed that verifies if the physical packages was indeed purchased and what is the specific cellular plan that was purchased for this specific eSIM. The purchase information that is sent carries the information of the type of cellular plan that was purchased, which can be identified by the price that was paid for the physical package or by other parameters that are received. If a match between the activation code 504 and a purchase associated with the barcode 502 is found, the eSIM is installed with the cellular plan loaded in it and ready for use. Typically, during the activation of the cellular plan, the user enters its home country and the cellular plan will only initiate when the mobile device is identified to found in a country that is other than the home country of the user. By applying this method, if the cellular plan is limited in time, it will only begin when the use arrives its destination, which is other than its home country.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A method for establishing a roaming-based network connection for a user, comprising: receiving user destination data indicative of a user's non-origin destination plan in a non-origin destination; in response to receiving said user destination data, sending the user a triggering digital item, wherein triggering of said digital item results in a subscription of said user to a network provider providing services in said non-origin destination; and wherein following said triggering, the method further comprises establishing the roaming-based network connection between the user and the network provider being usable by the user.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein said digital item is a scannable pattern.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein the scannable pattern is a QR code.

4. The method of claim 1, comprising generating said user destination data in response to a travel booking action of the user.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein the travel booking action comprises at least one of a flight booking to and / or a hotel booking in said non-origin destination.

6. The method of claim 4, wherein the travel booking action comprises an event or activity booking in said non-origin destination.

7. The method of claims 4, wherein said travel booking action triggers generating travel booking data indicative of the travel booking platform that generated said travel booking action; wherein the method further comprises utilizing said travel booking data for allocating advertising slot for the travel booking platform generated said travel booking action in a mobile communication service of a mobile phone of the user.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein said allocating comprises timing the advertising slot based on the preferences of the travel booking platform.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein said timing comprises determining the location of the user and allocating said advertising slot when the user is located in a desired geographical area.

10. The method of claim 7, wherein the mobile phone communication service is a browser pop-up.

11. The method of claim 7, wherein the mobile phone communication service is a message.

12. The method of claim 1, wherein following said establishing, the method further comprises opening a communication between the user and the network provider that allows the user selecting a network program from a plurality of network programs.

13. The method of claim 1, comprising, following said establishing, managing communication between a device of the user and a plurality of available cellular networks providing cellular connection, wherein said managing comprises: receiving network data that comprises subscribers connectivity data including connectivity history profiles of each of a plurality of subscribers to any one of said plurality of cellular networks; analyzing said network data to thereby generate ranking data indicative of a ranking of the plurality of cellular networks for selection; and selecting a first selected cellular network from said plurality of available cellular networks based on said ranking data.

14. A method for managing communication between a device and a plurality of available cellular networks providing cellular connection, the method comprising: receiving network data that comprises subscribers connectivity data including connectivity history profiles of each of a plurality of subscribers to any one of said plurality of cellular networks; analyzing said network data to thereby generate ranking data indicative of a ranking of the plurality of cellular networks for selection; and selecting a first selected cellular network from said plurality of available cellular networks based on said ranking data.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein said connectivity history profiles comprises connectivity history profiles of each of the plurality of subscribers to any one of said plurality of cellular networks in association with location of the subscriber.

16. The method of claim 14 or 15, wherein said connectivity history profiles comprises disconnection profiles of the subscriber with any one of said plurality of cellular networks indicative of at least one of: number of disconnections and duration of disconnection.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein said disconnection profiles comprises disconnection location data indicative of the location of each disconnection.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein said analyzing comprises applying a function to said disconnection profiles to thereby generate said ranking data.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein said applying a function to said disconnection profiles comprises applying a weight-based function to at least one of said number of disconnections and said duration of disconnection.

20. The method of claim 18 or 19, wherein said applying a function to said disconnection profiles comprises extracting the network with the minimum of at least one of: number of disconnections and a minimum average of duration of disconnections.

21. The method of claim 16, comprising applying a machine-learning model to said disconnection profiles to thereby generate said ranking data.

22. The method of claim 14, comprising obtaining device location; wherein the method further comprises identifying in said connectivity history profiles location- correlated profiles that are correlated with the device location; wherein said analyzing comprises analyzing said location-correlated profiles and generating location-correlated ranking data indicative of the ranking of the connectivity quality of each of the plurality of available cellular networks in a selected geographical area that comprises the device location.

23. The method of claim 14, wherein upon a decrease of the ranking of the connectivity quality of said first selected cellular network below a selected ranking threshold with respect to a second cellular network, the method further comprises selecting said second cellular network to replace the first selected cellular network.

24. The method of claim 14, wherein said network data comprises pricing data indicative of the pricing of each of the plurality of cellular networks; wherein said analyzing comprises assigning weight factors to said pricing data and said subscribers connectivity data to thereby generate said ranking data.

25. The method of claim 14, wherein said network data comprises technology standard type data indicative of the technology standard type of each network of the plurality of cellular networks; wherein said analyzing comprises assigning weight factor to each network of the plurality of cellular networks based on its technology standard type network affecting its ranking; wherein said ranking data is generated based on the subscribers connectivity data and the technology standard type data.

26. The method of claim 14, wherein said plurality of cellular networks comprise different network providers and different technology standard types.

27. The method of claim 13, comprising the methods of claim 14.

28. A method for activating a cellular plan of a roaming-based network in a mobile device of a user, comprising: receiving activation data that comprises a request associated with an activation signature for activating a digital cellular plan platform providing said cellular plan in said mobile device, said activation data further comprises a correlation of said activation signature with a purchase label; determining whether said purchase label is associated with a purchase data piece that comprises (i) authorization of a purchase of said digital cellular plan platform and (ii) parameters of the cellular plan; and if a purchase data piece comprises said (i) authorization of a purchase of said digital cellular plan platform and (ii) parameters of the cellular plan, the method comprises activating said digital cellular plan platform with said cellular plan based on said parameters of the cellular; wherein the activation signature and the purchase label are printed or applied on a single physical purchasable element.

29. The method of claim 28, wherein said activation signature comprises an activation code.

30. The method of claim 28 or 29, wherein said digital cellular plan platform is an eSIM.

31. The method of claim 28, wherein said purchase label is a barcode.

32. The method of claim 28, wherein said single physical purchasable element is a physical package, and wherein said activation signature and said purchase label are printed or applied on said physical package, said purchase label is printed on an external surface of the physical package such that it is exposed to the surrounding and said activation signature is printed on a surface of the physical package that is exposed after performing manipulation on the physical package.

33. The method of claim 28, comprising receiving a plurality of purchase data pieces and storing them in a database; wherein said determining comprises identifying a purchase data piece from the plurality of data pieces that comprises said (i) and (ii).

34. The method of claim 28, wherein said parameters of the cellular plan comprises any one of: price paid for the cellular plan, duration of the cellular plan, geographical coverage of the cellular plan, type of networks of the cellular plan, or any combination thereof.

35. The method of claim 28, comprising obtaining origin-destination data indicative of the origin destination of the user; wherein said activating said digital cellular plan platform with said cellular plan based on said parameters of the cellular comprises triggering the initiation of the cellular plan upon recognizing the presence of the user in a non-origin destination.

36. The method of claim 28, wherein the cellular plan is operable in a plurality of countries in different continents.

37. The method of claim 28, wherein following said activating, the method further comprises managing communication between the mobile device and a plurality of available cellular networks providing cellular connection according to claim 14.

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