IO ConnectED: Mobile Operators Tackle Travel eSIM’s Potential and Prospects
Since its founding in 2021, IO has focused on creating a collaborative space for MNOs to support each other and address shared challenges. Six Labs have been established to tackle various areas such as VoLTE, 5G, and M2M Roaming, with recent expansions into the Messaging field. In a dynamic and innovative industry, it is crucial to address emerging technology trends that impact the roaming customer experience.
IO ConnectED sessions are learning based sessions on key topics which require a bit more focus. A new initiative designed to raise awareness and facilitate strategic discussions on topics that span multiple vertical areas and cannot be confined to a single IO Lab. The inaugural meeting was hosted by Verizon at their Dublin headquarters on July 18th, bringing together a group of experts both in person and remotely to discuss the latest trends and updates on Travel eSIM.
Starting with a welcome by Executive Board member Brenda Carmichael, Senior Director of International Roaming at Verizon, delegates were presented with insights on Travel eSIM and had the opportunity to engage with 1GLOBAL to gain a deeper understanding of the eSIM services ecosystem offered by these providers.
While eSIM technology enables a wider range of use cases for IoT devices and promotes a more sustainable approach to physical SIMs, it is also important to understand how it can have an effect on the mobile operators’ roaming footprint.
The first version of the IO Travel eSIM Playbook was also reviewed with the objective of providing clear and neutral guidance for the IO Community especially highlighting various regulatory obligations that must be adhered to. Different strategies and approaches were debated on how operators can improve customer experience. Also highlighting different challenges operators face in serving their customers better.
The discussions also mentioned having a transparent approach between Mobile Operators which can help bring more value to end customers.
A second release of the IO Travel eSIM Playbook will be developed including the outcomes from the session in Dublin. Additionally, a follow-up session will also take place as part of IO Plenary #07 in Dubai from November 19th to 21st.
About Innovative Operators
Innovative Operators (IO) is an industry association dedicated to telecommunications roaming and messaging, committed to driving innovation and enhancing customer experiences. Through strategic collaborations and a relentless focus on customer needs, IO aims to set new standards in the industry and shape the future of telecommunications.