SGP.32: Redefining eSIM Management for IoT Devices

The GSMA SGP.32 specification represents the most significant shift in eSIM management for IoT since eUICC technology was first introduced. Built specifically for the unique demands of IoT deployments, SGP.32 combines the best of previous standards while adding the flexibility needed to scale globally.

At Simplex Wireless, we provide independent eSIM management services powered by our in-house EIM platform. Unlike many providers, we are not tied to any MNO (mobile network operator), OEM (device maker), or EUM (SIM card manufacturer)—giving customers true freedom in how they implement and manage eSIM for IoT.

Why SGP.32 Was Built for IoT

The GSMA designed SGP.32 to solve IoT-specific challenges that earlier specifications could not fully address.

• From SGP.02: It inherits the remote management capabilities, enabling operators and enterprises to push, switch, or retire profiles across devices.
• From SGP.22: It borrows the user-friendly acquisition model, simplifying how profiles are delivered and activated.
• Unique to SGP.32: It introduces the IoT Profile Assistant (IPA), which can reside either on the device (IPAd) or directly on the SIM card (IPAe).

This new architecture provides the flexibility to match deployment models, whether devices are resource-constrained or part of high-volume enterprise fleets.

Direct vs. Indirect Profile Downloads

With SGP.32, eSIM profiles can be downloaded in two ways:

• Direct Download: The IPA client (either IPAd on the device or IPAe on the SIM) communicates directly with the profile source.
• Indirect Download: The download happens through the eSIM IoT Manager (EIM), which acts as a central orchestrator for provisioning.

This dual model enables greater control, flexibility, and scalability. Enterprises can manage large IoT fleets consistently through an EIM, while still enabling lightweight deployments where direct downloads make sense.

At Simplex, our in-house EIM gives customers both options, offering the agility to support different industries, devices, and regulatory needs.

The Role of IPAe and Why It Matters

The introduction of IPAe (IoT Profile Assistant on the eUICC) is a game-changer for IoT deployments. Because the logic for profile management resides in the SIM itself, there’s no need for firmware changes or additional client software on the device.

This dramatically reduces the cost and complexity of rolling out eSIM in existing devices. In fact, at Simplex Wireless, we have tested hundreds of IoT devices, and nearly all support IPAe out of the box with only minor adjustments (such as enabling BIP). For a deeper dive, see our guide on enabling BIP/STK for SGP.32.

Independence Matters: Why Simplex Wireless Is Different

Many eSIM management providers are tightly coupled with a single carrier or SIM manufacturer. This creates vendor lock-in, hidden costs, and limited flexibility.

Simplex Wireless is different:

• Independent eSIM provider — not tied to an MNO, OEM, or EUM
• Customer-first pricing with no hidden fees
• eSIM management as a service — available with or without connectivity
• Compatible with any MNO’s eSIMs
• Built in-house with carrier-grade technology from our Atlanta, GA headquarters

This independence means you can use Simplex eSIM Management even if your connectivity comes from another provider. Our goal is to give customers freedom of choice, not lock them into proprietary stacks.

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A Smarter Way to Deploy IoT Globally

By leveraging SGP.32 with Simplex Wireless, enterprises can:

• Implement eSIM without modifying device firmware (via IPAe)
• Choose between direct and indirect downloads based on their deployment needs
• Manage profiles from a centralized, independent EIM
• Use Simplex for management only, connectivity only, or both
• Scale globally with the confidence of 550+ networks across 191 countries using our global IoT SIM cards

Conclusion: The Future of IoT eSIM Management

SGP.32 is more than an incremental update—it’s the framework that will define how IoT devices connect and scale globally for the next decade. By combining the best of previous standards with IoT-specific innovations, it gives businesses unprecedented control and flexibility.

At Simplex Wireless, we’ve embraced this future by developing our own EIM platform—delivering independent, cost-effective, and customer-focused eSIM management. Whether you need connectivity, management, or both, our solutions are built to help you scale without compromise.

Ready to simplify your eSIM strategy? Talk to our team or request a trial SIM today.

This article was curated by Jan Lattunen, CCO Simplex Wireless

About the Author: Jan Lattunen manages Sales and Marketing for Simplex Wireless. Jan has 20 years’ experience in working with SIM card technology and was involved in launching the eSIM in North America with major carriers and OEMs. His expertise in telecommunications is around SIM cards. On a personal note, Jan is a family man and avid cyclist with advocacy for safety in the roads. You can connect with Jan on https://linkedin.com/in/JanLattunen