The support of USB provides the possibility to communicate directly between the SIM and Web-based application services. With USB as a foundation, developers can now write high performance applications that interact with the SIM potentially using TCP/IP. Arguably the most widely used networking protocol in the world, TCP/IP brings a very robust and efficient set of software application layers to the SIM. The cornerstone of the new mobile concept is a dual mode SIM from Axalto capable of operating in both ISO 7816 mode, the current standard needed for GSM system compatibility, and USB Full Speed protocol mode while remaining on the existing hardware interface between the SIM and the handset. This implementation delivers high-speed communications with no change to the SIM physical interface used today. The demonstration runs on the Intel PXA270 Processor Reference Platform featuring Intel Wireless Trusted Platform. The result is a GSM USB SIM card that is compatible with legacy applications and delivers the high bandwidth developers need to leverage the SIM’s support for new high-bandwidth applications. “We see tremendous potential in the USB SIM technology,” said Laurent Coureau, strategic advisor from Orange. “The higher bandwidth and connectivity create opportunities for the SIM to play a role in a wide range of applications including the integration of handset applications with home and work desktops over the internet. This advance will deliver real value to our customers as we can continue to utilize the SIM for legacy applications, and leverage the high bandwidth access to enable new personalization and services on high performance platforms. As always with SIM cards, our subscribers can easily change handsets while retaining all of their personal settings and environment.” “This is a big step forward for wireless operators because the SIM card is the essential link between the operator and its clients,” said Xavier Chanay, Vice President Product Marketing and Development, Axalto . “This technology breakthrough strongly positions innovative operators to enhance their client relationships by using advanced SIM cards to deliver and secure new high bandwidth applications, as simply as they do today for their existing applications. At the same time, Axalto keeps operating the same usual SIM hardware interface: for wireless operators this flexibility and complete compatibility is essential.” “As new operator services emerge it is increasingly important to provide proactive end-to-end security between the network and handsets” said Mark Casey, director of marketing for Intel’s Cellular and Handheld Group. “By combining the connectivity of the Axalto SIM with the hardware-based security of the Intel PXA270 with Intel Wireless Trusted Platform, we have a platform solution that provides robust trust services and enables new usage models.” Axalto is the world’s largest supplier of SIM cards (Frost & Sullivan 2003) and the USB technology leader in the smart card industry. It was the first company to put USB on a smart card through its product e-gate that incorporates the USB interface electronics normally found in a smart card reader on the card itself.
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