Virtual SIM Authentication for Roaming Cost Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users traveling outside their native mobile network coverage face high communication costs when accessing services from foreign networks, as they are typically required to pay roaming fees unless a roaming agreement is in place.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a cellular modem, a remote server with multiple subscriber identity modules, and a routing interface allows mobile terminals to register with a foreign mobile network as regular subscribers, using a provided subscriber identity module to authenticate and access services without incurring roaming fees, by establishing a data connection with the remote server and selecting an appropriate network module for registration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If users access foreign mobile networks through traditional roaming agreements, then they can access communication services outside their native network coverage, but they incur high roaming fees
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of a local SIM card that emulates the authentication credentials of a genuine subscriber on the foreign network. The virtual SIM card contains copied identification data (IMSI, authentication keys) that allow the user's device to be recognized as a local subscriber rather than a roaming user, thereby accessing services at local rates without physical presence in the network coverage area
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a server as an intermediary that manages multiple virtual SIM card images and handles authentication with foreign networks. This intermediary system translates between the user's home network and the foreign network, routing communications through authenticated virtual identities to bypass traditional roaming arrangements and reduce costs
2Loss of energy
If users use virtual SIM card emulation to access foreign networks, then they can avoid roaming fees, but they require additional system components and authentication mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal system where a single server can manage multiple virtual SIM card images for different foreign networks, and these virtual SIMs can be activated in various devices. The authentication mechanism works across different mobile network standards (GSM, 3G, LTE) and device types, reducing the need for device-specific implementations while achieving cost savings
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of requiring physical SIM cards for each foreign network, the system creates virtual copies of SIM credentials that can be digitally instantiated and activated as needed. This copying approach eliminates the need for physical hardware changes or complex multi-SIM device architectures, simplifying the overall system while achieving the cost reduction goal
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method and system for allowing a user of a mobile terminal to beneficiate services provided by a foreign locally accessible mobile network as a regular subscriber of said network. The method according to the invention comprises the steps of: providing an apparatus comprising a first modem, a second modem and a subscriber identity module; providing a remote server containing a plurality of subscriber identity modules; allowing the apparatus to register with a foreign locally accessible mobile network using the first modem and the subscriber identity module attached to said first modem, and to establish a data connection between the apparatus and the remote server; in using said data connection, providing the remote server with an information allowing said remote server to determine which subscriber identity module is allowing local benefit of the services provided by a foreign locally accessible mobile network, and selecting, within the plurality of subscriber identity modules, said subscriber identity module; assigning the selected subscriber identity module to the second modem; allowing the apparatus to register with said foreign locally accessible network using the second modem and the selected subscriber identity module.