eUICC Connectivity Manager for Carrier Hopping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Embedded Universal Integrated Circuit Cards (eUICCs) in mobile devices are locked to a default mobile network operator (MNO) profile, limiting user flexibility to switch between MNOs without contractual lockdowns, and concentrating profile downloads on a single MNO.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a connectivity manager within user devices that enables carrier hopping and allows users to select and subscribe to different MNOs by scanning for available carriers, authenticating without relying on the default MNO profile, and downloading operational profiles securely over-the-air.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If eUICC is locked to default MNO profile, then network security and authentication are ensured, but user flexibility to switch between MNOs is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the eUICC functionality into multiple independent profiles (default MNO profile and alternative MNO profiles). The connectivity manager can selectively activate different profiles based on user choice, allowing switching between MNOs without changing the physical eUICC hardware. This segmentation enables flexibility while maintaining security through profile-based isolation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic profile selection and activation mechanisms. The connectivity manager can dynamically switch between different MNO profiles stored in the eUICC based on user preference or network conditions. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to different operational requirements while maintaining a secure baseline through the default profile.
2Reliability
If profile downloads are concentrated on single MNO, then initial connectivity setup is simplified, but network reliability and user choice are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring the eUICC with multiple MNO profiles during manufacturing or initial provisioning, including both a default profile and alternative profiles. This preliminary setup eliminates the need for users to manually configure alternative MNO connections later, providing both reliability (default profile ensures initial connectivity) and flexibility (alternative profiles enable MNO switching).
Solution Approach 2:
The connectivity manager acts as an intermediary that manages multiple MNO profiles and coordinates switching between them. It mediates between the user's MNO selection preference and the actual profile activation in the eUICC, enabling flexible MNO selection while maintaining reliable connectivity through automated profile management.
3Ease of operation
If default MNO profile is used for authentication, then initial network access is ensured, but user ability to select alternative MNOs is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses copying by creating multiple virtual profile copies within the eUICC, each representing a different MNO. The default MNO profile serves as the primary authentication credential, while alternative profiles are copied versions that can be activated when users want to switch MNOs. This copying approach maintains authentication reliability through profile-based security while enabling easy MNO switching.
Data Source
AI summary
A device may scan for a carrier that includes an embedded Universal Integrated Circuit Card (eUICC), wherein the carrier is associated with a Mobile Network Operator (MNO). The device may hop on the carrier, authenticate with a network of the MNO without using an MNO profile stored in the eUICC, and gain limited access to the network in response to the authentication. The device may also register with the network while attached to the network. The registering may include downloading an operational MNO profile to the eUICC in the device and storing the MNO profile on the eUICC.