Cloud-Based SIM Off-Loading for Biometric Multi-Device Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mobile devices require physical Subscriber Identification Module (SIM) cards for user authentication and network connectivity, limiting flexibility and convenience in device sharing and network usage.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for off-loading SIM capabilities to cloud-based servers, utilizing biometric authentication to enable seamless device-to-device communication and network connectivity without the need for physical SIMs, allowing users to authenticate and access services across multiple devices and networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If physical SIM cards are used for user authentication and network connectivity, then device security and network access are ensured, but device flexibility and ease of sharing are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the SIM card's authentication functionality in the cloud. Instead of relying on a physical SIM card stored in a device, the system generates and uses virtual SIM identifiers (such as temporary identification numbers) that can be dynamically assigned and transferred between devices, maintaining security while enabling flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a cloud-based SIM server as an intermediary between the user and the network. This intermediary manages authentication credentials and can issue virtual SIM identifiers to any authorized device, eliminating the need for physical SIM cards while maintaining secure authentication through centralized control
2Adaptability or versatility
If physical SIM cards are embedded in devices, then network connectivity is established, but adaptability across multiple devices and networks is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal cloud-based SIM system that can serve multiple devices simultaneously. The cloud SIM server can authenticate users across different device types and networks using the same virtual identifier system, allowing a single subscription to work on any device without requiring physical SIM cards or complex configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the SIM functionality into two parts: a permanent cloud-based authentication server and temporary virtual identifiers. This segmentation allows the core authentication logic to remain centralized while enabling flexible deployment across multiple devices through dynamic assignment of virtual SIM IDs, reducing device complexity
3Adaptability or versatility
If cloud-based SIM off-loading is implemented, then device flexibility and multi-device access are improved, but network infrastructure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical physical SIM card insertion and removal system with a software-based cloud authentication system. Instead of physically managing SIM cards across devices, the system uses software-generated virtual identifiers and cloud-based authentication protocols, simplifying the user experience while distributing system complexity to the network side
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the subject disclosure may include, for example, a device comprising: a processing system including a processor; and a memory that stores executable instructions that, when executed by the processing system, facilitate performance of operations, the operations comprising: receiving from user equipment an indication that a user has been authenticated by the user equipment via a biometric process; responsive to the receiving of the indication, obtaining user profile data associated with the user; responsive to the receiving the user profile data, selecting a first service provider from among a plurality of service providers; and routing communications between the first service provider and the user equipment. Other embodiments are disclosed.