COREDUMP #012: Plug-and-Play Cellular Connectivity: Nearly Here or Never Happening?

What would it take for a connected device to just work — no provisioning, no carrier negotiations, no endless configuration?

That vision is getting closer to reality thanks to growing momentum around standardization in cellular IoT, new technologies like eSIM and iSIM, and regulatory shifts pushing for interoperability and simplicity. But we’re not there yet.

Today, cellular IoT adoption is rising fast, fueled by LPWAN networks, eSIM, and growing demand for globally scalable connectivity. Yet many teams still face fragmented carrier ecosystems, inconsistent provisioning experiences, and complex certification requirements that slow down time to market.

In this episode of Coredump Sessions, we’re joined by Vincent Korstanje, CEO of Kigen, a company at the forefront of eSIM, iSIM, and secure identity in cellular IoT. Vincent shares what’s happening behind the scenes to make plug-and-play connectivity possible, what’s still standing in the way, and how product builders can better navigate today’s connectivity landscape.

In this conversation, we cover:

• Why cellular connectivity still creates friction for IoT device makers
• The current and future role of eSIM and iSIM
• How standards bodies and regulators are shaping the connectivity landscape
• What true “plug-and-play” would mean — and what’s needed to get there
• Advice for product and engineering teams building connected hardware today

Whether you’re leading a connected device team or architecting your next IoT product, this episode offers a look at the path to seamless connectivity and what it will take to get there.