Cross-OEM eSIM Subscription Transfer via Entitlement Server
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is no existing industry standard for transferring user subscriptions between smartphones manufactured by different Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) due to the use of proprietary solutions by OEMs like Apple and Google, especially when moving from an old plastic SIM device to a new digital eSIM device.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for transferring user subscriptions between mobile devices of different OEMs, involving a third-party entitlement server that facilitates the transfer of a subscription from a first mobile device with a first operating system to a second mobile device with a second operating system, using a flow that includes sending a one-time password (OTP) and profile activation codes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If proprietary solutions are used by each OEM for subscription transfer, then the transfer process works within the same OEM ecosystem, but compatibility between different OEMs and operating systems is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a third-party entitlement server as an intermediary that mediates between different OEMs and operating systems. This server acts as a universal translator and coordinator, receiving transfer requests from one device, validating them against carrier policies, and executing the transfer on the target device regardless of which OEM or operating system they use. This resolves the compatibility issue without requiring each OEM to implement complex integration with others.
Solution Approach 2:
The subscription transfer process is segmented into distinct functional phases: request receipt and validation, carrier policy verification, and profile activation. By dividing the complex transfer operation into manageable segments handled by different components (client device, entitlement server, carrier), the system achieves cross-OEM compatibility while keeping each individual component relatively simple and independent.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a universal transfer flow is implemented across different OEMs, then cross-OEM compatibility is achieved, but the complexity of coordinating between different operating systems increases
Solution Approach 1:
The entitlement server serves as the coordinating intermediary that handles all the complexity of communication between different operating systems. It receives standardized transfer requests from any OS, translates them into carrier-specific validation protocols, and executes the transfer using carrier-approved methods. This centralizes the coordination complexity in a dedicated component rather than distributing it across all devices and systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system adapts to different operating systems by changing the parameters of communication and data formats based on the target device's OS. The entitlement server adjusts validation parameters, profile formats, and activation protocols according to whether the target device runs iOS, Android, or another operating system, while maintaining a consistent user-facing interface and carrier policy enforcement.
3Ease of operation
If subscription transfer is enabled between devices with different operating systems, then user mobility is improved, but security and authentication requirements become more stringent
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary authentication and validation actions before the actual subscription transfer occurs. The entitlement server verifies the requesting device's identity, checks carrier policies in advance, validates the target device's eligibility, and confirms user authorization before initiating the profile transfer. This preliminary action phase strengthens security by ensuring all parties are trusted before any sensitive operations occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements multiple feedback loops where the entitlement server continuously communicates with both the requesting and target devices to verify authentication status, monitor transfer progress, and confirm completion. This feedback mechanism ensures that security requirements are met at each step of the transfer process, allowing the system to maintain strong authentication while providing smooth user experience across different operating systems.
Data Source
AI summary
As described herein, a system, method, and computer program are provided for transferring a user subscription between mobile devices of different OEMs. A request to transfer a subscription to a carrier service of a service provider from a first mobile device having a first operating system to a second mobile device having a second operating system is received. A flow for transferring the subscription from the first mobile device having the first operating system to the second mobile device having the second operating system is performed.