Virtual UICC Emulation for Multi-Subscription Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dual SIM mobile terminals require multiple UICCs or complex user management due to limitations in embedding and activating multiple subscriptions on a single eUICC, leading to increased costs and user complexity.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that enables multiple virtual UICCs to be configured and hosted on either a physical or embedded UICC, allowing for the emulation of multiple active network subscriptions without resetting the mobile terminal, by activating and deactivating subscriptions based on network authentication requests.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple UICCs are embedded in a mobile terminal to enable multiple subscriptions, then the number of active subscriptions is improved, but the device cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple subscription functionalities into a single eUICC by creating virtual UICC instances. The eUICC hosts multiple vUICCs that can be activated independently, allowing the mobile terminal to access multiple networks simultaneously without requiring multiple physical UICC slots or embedded eUICCs. This consolidation reduces hardware complexity while maintaining multi-subscription capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The eUICC is designed to perform multiple functions by hosting multiple vUICC instances, each capable of representing a different subscription. This universal design allows a single eUICC to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate UICCs, reducing both hardware requirements and operational complexity for users.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple eUICCs are embedded to enable multiple subscriptions, then subscription diversity is improved, but user complexity increases due to activation management
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements automatic subscription management where the mobile terminal and eUICC handle activation and deactivation of vUICCs without requiring user intervention. When a subscription needs to be activated, the system automatically manages the transition, including handling UICC reset operations transparently. This self-service approach eliminates the complexity of manual activation management for users.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary management layer between the user and the multiple subscriptions. This intermediary handles the complex tasks of subscription activation, deactivation, and switching automatically. The user simply selects which subscription to use through a simplified interface, while the intermediary manages the technical complexities of activation sequences and state transitions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If subscription activation causes UICC reset, then subscription switching is achieved, but mobile terminal operations are interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions to prepare for subscription switching before the actual activation occurs. The mobile terminal detects upcoming subscription changes in advance and proactively manages the transition process. This includes preparing the radio interface and other system components to minimize disruption, and coordinating the UICC reset timing to reduce impact on ongoing operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic subscription management where the system can handle subscription activations and deactivations without fixed interruption patterns. The mobile terminal dynamically adjusts its operation based on the subscription state changes, maintaining service continuity where possible. The system dynamically manages radio resource allocation and network reconnection processes to minimize operational disruptions during subscription transitions.
Data Source
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AI summary
Various methods are provided for facilitating a software smart card environment consisting of multiple virtual UICCs (vUICC) hosting a plurality of SIMS or U-SIMS. One example method may comprise receiving a network authentication request from a first network operator. The method may also comprise causing, using a processor, a UICC to activate a subscription for the first network operator and deactivate a subscription for a second network operator in an instance in which the subscription for the first network operator is not the active subscription. The method may further comprise determining a vUICC identification relating to the requested application. The method may further comprise causing authentication information to be transmitted to the first network operator based on the subscription for the first network operator. Similar and related example apparatuses and example computer program products are also provided.