Consumer eSIM: device and MNO service trackers, and 2030 adoption forecast, Q3 2026

This edition of the Industry Checkpoint series focuses on consumer eSIM, highlighting momentum behind travel eSIM; new players launching eSIM-only MVNO services; operator efforts to expand eSIM use cases beyond smartphones; and operators using eSIM to target inbound travellers, including enriching connectivity with benefits that improve the wider visitor experience.

GSMA Intelligence's Chart of the Month is a visual way of telling an important story in the mobile and broader tech ecosystem. From the shape and size of markets to trends in consumer behaviour, we aim to provide food for thought through informative visuals designed to bring colour and clarity to complex issues facing the industry. This edition looks at how adoption of travel eSIM continues to grow, but it remains a niche offering.

Use of AI agents is set to increase exponentially. But as AI agents become the norm, work alongside humans and make decisions, the need for verifiable, manageable and secure identities becomes critical to ensure digital trust. Identity and access management is not a new business for operators. However, its extension to AI agents brings new opportunities. This report analyses the technical options for AI agent identity, what pioneer operators are doing today, and the future business opportunities.