Thales and Bridge Alliance operators connect IoT devices across Asia-Pacific networks

Enterprises deploying connected devices across Asia Pacific often have to manage separate mobile operators, provisioning systems and connectivity arrangements in each market. Thales, Singtel and three other Bridge Alliance operators have developed a shared eSIM platform intended to bring that work into one system.

The platform connects Singtel, Australia’s Optus, Thailand’s AIS and the Philippines’ Globe Telecom through Thales’ IoT eSIM technology. Following interoperability testing across the four operators, the companies said the system is ready to support enterprise deployments, with more Bridge Alliance members expected to join.

Its purpose is to simplify how businesses activate, monitor and maintain devices that operate across several countries. Instead of replacing SIM cards or managing each operator through a separate system, enterprises can control device connectivity remotely through a central platform.

A shared system for cross-border devices

The platform is based on the GSMA SGP.32 specification, which supports remote eSIM management for Internet of Things devices. According to the companies, connected equipment can select an appropriate participating network as it moves between supported countries.

This approach is designed for devices that may remain deployed for years and cannot be maintained easily. A utility provider, for example, could manage smart meters across several markets without sending technicians to replace SIM cards. Infrastructure operators could apply the same model to routers, gateways and fixed wireless access equipment installed at multiple sites.

The system also includes automatic network fallback and recovery. When one connection becomes unavailable, a device can move to another participating network without requiring manual intervention. Payment terminals could use this capability to reduce disruptions at retail locations, while connected vehicles could retain access to navigation, safety services and over-the-air software updates when crossing borders.

Bringing these functions into one platform could also reduce the administrative work involved in coordinating several operators. Enterprises would have a central view of their connected devices and the networks serving them, rather than maintaining separate arrangements in each country.

Operators prepare for wider deployment

Singtel, Optus, AIS and Globe Telecom have tested the processes used to manage devices and connections across their respective networks. The collaboration covers the orchestration of eSIM profiles, operator selection and device connectivity through the central platform.

Singtel Group Chief Technology Officer Jorge Fernandes described the system as a way for enterprises to gain real-time visibility and control over devices operating across multiple markets. Nicolas Bouverot, Vice-President of Mobile Connectivity Solutions at Thales, said the multi-operator model is intended to simplify how connected devices are deployed and managed throughout their operating life.

The companies are targeting sectors including automotive, utilities, retail, payments, logistics and industrial operations, where connected equipment often has to remain online for long periods across different locations.

Citing GlobalData, the partners expect cellular IoT connections across Asia Pacific to reach 1.3 billion by 2030. Expanding the platform to additional Bridge Alliance operators would extend the number of markets where enterprises can manage devices through the same system.