It's being reported today that Apple and Samsung are in advanced talks to join the rest of the telecoms industry to launch electronic Sim cards, in a move that could fundamentally change how consumers sign up to mobile operators. The GSMA, the industry association which represents mobile operators worldwide, is close to announcing an agreement to produce a standardized embedded Sim for consumer devices that would include Apple and other smartphone makers.

The Financial Times reports that "The traditional Sim card locks in the user to a network but an embedded Sim would enable a smartphone, tablet or wearable user to avoid locking themselves into a plan with a single operator or sign up to switch instantly. Networks expected to support the plans include AT&T, Deutsche Telekom, Etisalat, Hutchison Whampoa, Orange, Telefónica and Vodafone.

Last year, Apple revealed its own Sim card for its latest iPads. However, it was supported by only a handful of operators such as T-Mobile and AT&T in the US, and just EE in the UK. Those familiar with its UK rollout said that it had not been widely adopted."

Anne Bouverot, chief executive of the GSMA is on record stating that "We have got everyone back on one point, with Apple and Samsung agreeing to be part of that specification. We have been working with them and others to create an industry solution for machines and will agree a solution for consumer electronics."

The GSMA further noted that "With the majority of operators on board, the plan is to finalize the technical architecture that will be used in the development of an end-to-end remote SIM solution for consumer devices, with delivery anticipated by 2016."

The electronic Sim is not expected to replace the Apple Sim, which could be included in the next generation of iPhones.

While the GSMA first stated that Apple had agreed to the specification, they later noted that they were "continuing to work with Apple to secure their support for the initiative. While we are optimistic, a formal agreement with them is still in progress." With no official statement on record found on GSMA's press webpage, there's no way to confirm that Apple is actually onboard yet. 

We reported on one of Apple's embedded SIM card patents last April and you could check out that report here for details and check Apple's webpage describing the Apple SIM here that debuted with Apple's iPad Air 2.  

Gemalto shares fell sharply on Thursday on the news, with traders citing concerns that its SIM card manufacturing business might be impacted if U.S. tech company Apple launched a rival e-Sim card.

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