Kigen is an Arm-founded B2B technology company that supplies SIM operating systems, eSIM and iSIM technology, remote SIM provisioning and lifecycle-management services for connected-device businesses. It serves device manufacturers, module and chipset makers, mobile operators, connectivity providers and enterprise deployments—not individual consumers looking to buy a retail eSIM.
What Kigen provides
Kigen’s portfolio covers the software and services needed to put cellular identity into an IoT product and manage it through its operating life. The company describes its offerings as including:
- Secure SIM operating systems for physical SIM, eSIM and supported iSIM designs
- eSIM (eUICC) and integrated SIM technology
- Remote SIM provisioning (RSP) for delivering and managing operator profiles
- IoT eSIM Manager (eIM) capabilities and the Kigen Pulse management console and APIs
- An embedded C software development kit
- Secure data generation
- Professional consulting, technical delivery and ongoing support
The customer still needs a cellular connectivity agreement with one or more operators or connectivity providers. An eSIM or iSIM supplies the secure subscriber-identity technology; it does not, by itself, include a mobile data plan or guarantee network coverage.
eSIM and iSIM: the hardware distinction
eSIM (eUICC)
An eSIM is a reprogrammable UICC that can store multiple operator profiles. With remote SIM provisioning, a manufacturer or fleet operator can download, activate, deactivate or change a profile without physically replacing a SIM. That can simplify products deployed in difficult-to-access locations or sold across several countries.
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#1 Best Overall
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- [USER-FRIENDLY DESIGN] Installation is a breeze with a thoughtfully designed setup that includes an easy-to-use interface and clear network indicators. With onboard power supply features and straightforward antenna connection, you can be up and running with minimal effort.
- [MULTIPLE POWER OPTIONS] Adapt to various environments with flexible power supply options including a DC 3.5 jack supporting 5V to 12V input as well as a USB3.2 providing 5V 2A power. Stay powered up effortlessly whether at home or on-the-go for sustained performance.
- [FLEXIBLE SIM FUNCTIONALITY] Dual-card support marks a significant advantage in user connectivity options, allowing you to switch between a standard SIM and an eSIM effortlessly through AT commands. Leverage the best network plans with exceptional ease at your convenience.
- [VERSATILE USAGE SCENARIOS] Not just a dongle, but a versatile expansion board ideal for CPE, IoT applications, and intelligent security solutions. Whether for telemedicine or live video streaming, achieve reliable and robust connectivity in your tasks.
iSIM
Kigen describes an iSIM as SIM functionality integrated into a dedicated secure area inside a system-on-chip, rather than implemented as a separate SIM component. This can reduce component count and board space when the selected chipset and device design support it. iSIM changes the integration architecture; it does not remove the need for an operator relationship, profile management or a suitable cellular modem.
How remote SIM provisioning works for IoT
- Choose the connectivity model. The product team selects an operator or connectivity provider, or plans to support multiple profiles.
- Build the SIM function into the device. The design uses a discrete SIM, an eSIM/eUICC, or an iSIM-capable system-on-chip.
- Install the required software and credentials. Kigen’s SIM OS and secure data-generation services are used according to the device and operator requirements.
- Deliver a profile remotely. An RSP platform securely downloads the target operator profile to the device.
- Manage the lifecycle. Profiles can be activated, deactivated, updated or replaced as the device moves through manufacturing, deployment, service and retirement.
For the newer IoT architecture, Kigen describes GSMA SGP.32 as using an eSIM IoT Manager (eIM) and an IoT Profile Assistant (IPA). The eIM coordinates lifecycle actions, while the IPA is the device-side component that assists with profile operations.
Rank #2
- Part Number: USB 3.2 Gen1 5G DONGLE
- 5G DONGLE Expansion Board, USB 3.2 Port, Aluminum Alloy Case, Quad Antennas, Onboard M.2 Key B Interface, Options For 5G Module
- Supports 5G modules with M.2 (NGFF) Key B interface, compatible with mainstream 5G modules from brands such as SIMCom, Quectel, and Fibocom. Supports 5G modules in 3042 / 3052 packages such as SIM82XX, RM5XX and FM650XX series
- Onboard USB 3.2 Type-C port for connecting to Raspberry Pi or PC for 5G networking, firmware updating, and external power supply input. Built-in UART communication interface for data transmission and other functions with some modules
- Onboard 4-ch IPEX 4 to SMA antenna connector for direct mounting of antennas. Onboard voltage translator circuit, supports 5 ~ 12V power supply via DC 3.5mm jack, or 5V / 2A power supply via USB 3.2 port. Onboard 1-ch standard SIM card slot, 1-ch eSIM card slot in QFN-8 (5x6) package, dual card single standby, switchable via AT command
What Kigen’s IoT eSIM Manager and Pulse add
Kigen positions its eIM as the service that manages IoT eSIM profiles and lifecycle actions across a fleet. Kigen Pulse provides a management console and application programming interfaces for operational control, while the company also describes an embedded C SDK for integrating relevant functions into products. Exact responsibilities depend on the chosen standards version, module or chipset and the connectivity provider’s implementation.
Choosing between a discrete SIM, eSIM and iSIM
Kigen’s product guidance starts with four questions: Is the device mobile or stationary? Is the operator already selected? Does the hardware require a separate SIM or support an integrated approach? Will profiles be installed in the factory or after deployment? Add the following engineering and business checks:
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Rank #3
- Based on Qualcomm X62 platform, supports 5G NSA and SA networking, with multi-mode multi-band support.
- Multi-constellation dual-band positioning: GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, and QZSS.
- USB 3.1 port (USB 2.0 compatible) for connecting to Jetson Orin, PC, or Raspbery Pi to enable high speed 5G network.
- Onboard standard M.2 B KEY slot and module selection switches, compatible with RM520N-GL / RM530N-GL / RM500U-CNV / EM060K-GL modules.
- Reserved UART solder pads for convenient data transmission and other functions with certain modules.
| Decision factor | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Device mobility | Mobile assets may cross networks or countries, increasing the value of remotely changeable profiles. |
| Operator selection | A fixed operator can simplify a product; uncertain or multi-market connectivity favors profile flexibility. |
| Hardware | eSIM requires compatible eUICC hardware; iSIM requires a supported secure area in the selected SoC. |
| Provisioning point | Factory provisioning may suit a known deployment, while post-deployment provisioning helps products shipped before a final operator decision. |
| Power and bandwidth | Small-battery devices need carefully designed download and management procedures. |
| Lifecycle and fleet scale | Large or long-lived fleets benefit from automation, APIs, auditability and planned profile retirement. |
| Standards and compatibility | Confirm the required SGP.32 version, eIM/IPA support, modem, module, chipset and operator interoperability before committing the design. |
| Commercial responsibility | Decide who contracts for connectivity, pays recurring service charges and handles operator changes. |
Recent Kigen announcements
Automotive eSIM and SGP.32 v1.3
On September 23, 2026, Kigen announced that its automotive eSIM had achieved GSMA eSA certification and supported SGP.32 version 1.3. Kigen says the product combines its eSIM operating system with Infineon’s TEGRION SLI22 automotive security controller. The certification and “first” positioning are claims in Kigen’s announcement; they should not be treated as an independently checked GSMA-database result without separate confirmation.
IoT Solution of the Year award
In an October 23, 2025 press release, Kigen said its eIM was named “IoT Solution of the Year” in the Mobile Breakthrough Awards. That award attribution comes from Kigen’s own announcement.
Rank #4
- AC Power 2 Channel IoT Relay Outlet Module. Each receptacle features a built-in 10 Amp power relay, compatible with most controllers for flexible on/off control of the output. The AC120V power for each receptacle can be directly controlled via controllers like Arduino, Raspberry Pi, ESP32, MCU, PLC, etc., simplifying wiring and making maintenance easier.
- Control terminal: The control terminal and relay are electrically isolated by an optocoupler. It supports a wide range of AC and DC control signals, from AC 8V-150V to DC 3V-120V. Compatible with GPIOs from Arduino, Raspberry Pi, ESP32, MCU, PLC, etc. It supports PLC output port types, including common positive (NPN/Sink) and common negative (PNP/Source).
- Features US standard 3-prong grounded NEMA 5-15R AC receptacles with reinforced metal casing for added stability.
- Dual input screw terminal block, capable of extending as an input source for other devices. Rated for 30 Amps, with a pitch of 6.35mm/0.25", wire range of 26 - 10AWG / 4.0mm², strip length of 8mm, and M3 metric screws.
- Equipped with a resettable rocker thermal circuit breaker overload protector, rated for 15 Amps. Includes a built-in red indicator and supports manual control of all receptacle outputs.
Company background and scale claims
Kigen’s timeline says Simulity Labs Ltd was incorporated in 2009 and that Arm acquired the company and founded the Kigen product group in 2017. Kigen therefore describes itself as Arm-founded; that does not mean Arm currently provides every Kigen service.
Kigen’s company page states that its secure SIM OS has enabled “Over 2 Billion SIMs” and lists a 150-person global team. A January 2025 Kigen press release gives a different figure—“over 2.5 billion SIMs” enabled by its SIM OS products. Because the pages differ in date and wording, the figures should be read as separate Kigen-reported claims rather than combined totals.
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- PC CONNECTION: USB3.2 Gen1 5G dongle on board Type C interface, supporting USB access to for RasPi or PC for 5G networking, firmware upgrade or external power supply
- EASY INSTALLATION AND USE: 5G dongle onboard 4 channel 4 to SMA antenna interface, easy to install directly. Onboard power supply, network indicator, easy to check the module working status and 5G debugging
- POWER SUPPLY: 5G dongle onboard power conversion circuit, support DC 3.5 jack 5~12V voltage supply, also support the USB3.2 interface 5V 2A power supply
- DOUBLE CARD SLOT: 5G dongle on board 1 standard SIM card slot and 1 eSIM card slot . Double card slot can be enabled by AT command switching
- TYPICAL APPLICATION: USB3.2 Gen1 5G dongle expansion board can be used for CPE, Internet of Things, live video, telemedicine, intelligent security
Who should evaluate Kigen
Kigen is relevant when an IoT organization needs embedded SIM software, secure credential generation, remote profile operations or implementation assistance. Typical evaluation participants include:
- OEM and product engineering teams selecting a module, modem or SoC
- Operators and connectivity providers building managed IoT offerings
- Module and chipset vendors integrating SIM capability
- Enterprise fleet owners planning cross-border deployment or long device lifecycles
Ask Kigen and prospective connectivity partners to document supported standards, hardware combinations, provisioning ownership, security certification scope, API and SDK integration, operational support, profile portability and all recurring connectivity responsibilities. Kigen’s named IoT eSIM Starter Kit may be useful for prototyping, but its contents, retail availability and any affiliate or reseller arrangement are not established here.
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