Japanese NTT Docomo Inc. has developed a prototype of the first SIM-based authentication device that can wirelessly activate smartphones or tablets, essentially replacing the mobile device's SIM function.
The "Portable SIM" device can securely store subscriber identity information. It incorporates a SIM card, Bluetooth and NFC. By waving Portable SIM next to a mobile device, the user's subscriber identity can be transmitted to the mobile device via Bluetooth, eliminating the need to insert a SIM card.
Using this feature, for example, the smartphone user can switch their subscriber identity from a personal device to a shared tablet in the workplace.
The pocket-size mini device is expected to be incorporated in wearable devices after further miniaturizing.
The device can store multiple credentials, such as IDs and passwords, so it also can be used with PCs to eliminate the need to type in such information when accessing online shopping and other sites.