Patent Description:
To meet the soaring demand with respect to wireless data traffic due to the commercialization of a 4th generation (<NUM>) system and the increase of multimedia services, an improved <NUM> communication system or a pre-<NUM> communication system is being developed. This is one reason why '<NUM> communication systems' or 'pre-<NUM> communication systems' are called 'beyond <NUM> network communication systems' or 'post Long-Term Evolution (LTE) systems.

In order to increase a data transmission rate, <NUM> communication systems are being developed to be implemented in a super-high frequency band (millimeter wave (mmWave)), e.g., a band of <NUM>. In order to reduce the path loss of radio waves in such a super-high frequency band and to increase a transmission distance of radio waves, various technologies for <NUM> communication systems are being discussed and studied, for example, beamforming, massive multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO), Full Dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antennas, analog beam-forming, and large-scale antennas.

Also, in order to improve system network performance for <NUM> communication systems, various technologies have been developed, e.g., evolved small cells, advanced small cells, cloud radio access networks (Cloud-RAN), ultra-dense networks, Device-to-Device communication (D2D), wireless backhaul, moving networks, cooperative communication, Coordinated Multi-Points (CoMP), and interference cancellation. Also, for <NUM> communication systems, other technologies have been developed, e.g., hybrid frequency-shift keying (FSK) and quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) (FQAM) and Sliding Window Superposition Coding (SWSC), which are Advanced Coding Modulation (ACM) schemes, and Filter Bank Multi Carrier (FBMC), non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA), and sparse code multiple access (SCMA), which are advanced access schemes.

The Internet has evolved from a human-based connect ion network, where humans create and consume information, to the Internet of Things (IoT), where distributed configurations, such as objects, exchange information with each other to process the information. Internet of Everything (IoE) technology is emerging, in which technology related to the IoT is combined with, for example, technology for processing big data through connection with a cloud server. In order to implement the IoT, various technological components are required, such as sensing technology, wired/wireless communication and network infrastructures, service interface technology, security technology, etc. In recent years, technologies including a sensor network for connecting objects, Machine to Machine (M2M) communication, Machine Type Communication (MTC), etc. have been studied. In the IoT environment, intelligent Internet Technology (IT) services may be provided to collect and analyze data obtained from objects connected to each other to create new value in human life. As existing information technology (IT) techniques and various industries converge and combine with each other, the IoT may be applied to various fields, such as smart homes, smart buildings, smart cities, smart cars or connected cars, smart grids, health care, smart home appliances, high quality medical services, etc..

Various attempts are being made to apply <NUM> communication systems to the IoT network. For example, technologies related to sensor networks, M2M communication, MTC, etc., are being implemented by using <NUM> communication technology including beam-forming, MIMO, array antennas, etc. The application of Cloud-RAN as a big data processing technology described above may be an example of convergence of <NUM> communication technology and IoT technology.

Currently, devices such as smartphones, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, wearable devices, and so on, may include a plurality of applications/services, with each of the plurality of applications/services having diverse connectivity requirements, particularly in terms of reliability, latency, throughput, bandwidth, security, and so on. In an example, a video streaming application may require high data rate, medium latency, and low security. In another example, a gaming application may require high data rate, low latency, and low security. In yet another example, a banking application may require medium data rate, high reliability, medium latency, and high security.

Currently, the devices may include embedded Subscriber Identity Module (eSIM) comprising of a plural ity of profiles. Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) can provide services through the profiles of the eSIM. Users can download the eSIM profiles and receive the services provided by the network. The device can interact with the eSIM through a Local Profile Assistant (LPA) in the device. The devices can secure a plurality of profiles and enable at least one appropriate profile based on subscription charges and quality of connection. However, when a user enables a particular eSIM profile, data belonging to different applications and services, with varying requirements, is sent or received by the device through a single network pipe (path).

<FIG> illustrates an existing scenario, wherein data belonging to a plurality of applications is transferred through the same path according to the related art.

Referring to <FIG>, data belonging to a plurality of applications <NUM> is transferred through the same network pipe <NUM> to a network <NUM> and Quality of Service (QoS) is ensured only at the device level.

<FIG> illustrates an example scenario, wherein a device <NUM> includes an eSIM comprising of profiles that can be linked with plans offered by MNOs according to the related art.

Referring to <FIG>, the eSIM comprises of two profiles. Each eSIM profile can be linked to a particular MNO (MNO <NUM> or MNO <NUM>), wherein each MNO can provide different plans. Currently, at a time instant, a single profile can be enabled on the eSIM. However, there can be multiple disabled profiles that can be enabled dynamically on-demand. The user can choose a plan that is provided by the MNO and link the chosen plan with a particular profile. The plans that are provided by a particular MNO allow transfer of data to the network (<NUM> or <NUM>) through a single pipe (<NUM> or <NUM>). The device may provide an option to manually switch subscriptions between the two profiles for transfer of data as per connectivity requirements. However, appropriate connectivity to each application/service for optimizing data usage experience and cost may not be provided. There may not be options that allow customizing subscriptions for each application/service in the device.

The following prior art publications are related to eSIM systems:.

Accordingly, an aspect of the disclosure is to provide an apparatus and method for providing network connectivity in a wireless communication system as defined in independent claims <NUM> and <NUM>.

The above and other aspects, features, and advantages of certain embodiments of the disclosure will be more apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which.

In accordance with an aspect of the disclosure, methods and systems for providing differentiated network connectivity to applications/services in a device based on quality of service (QoS) requirements of the applications/services are provided. The methods and systems include associating QoS features (such as security, reliability, bandwidth, latency, and so on) with embedded subscriber identity module (eSIM) profiles in the device. The embodiments include mapping the applications/services with the eSIM profiles based on QoS requirements of the appl ications/services, wherein the QoS features associated with the eSIM profiles are similar to/same as the QoS requirements of the applications/services. The embodiments include monitoring the pattern of usage, behavior, context, content, and so on, of each of the applications/services. The embodiments include dynamically remapping the applications/services with the eSIM profiles based on pattern of usage, context, and content of the applications/services. The remapping involves switching from an existing mapping to a new mapping. The embodiments include prioritizing the applications/services that are associated with a particular eSIM profile for resolving conflicts, which may arise if multiple applications/services associated with the same eSIM profile attempt to transfer data at the same time. The embodiments include prioritizing the applications/services that are associated with different eSIM profiles for resolving conflicts, which may arise if a single eSIM profile in the device can be enabled at a particular time instant.

In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, a method for operating a device in a wireless communication system is provided. The method includes receiving a plurality of embedded subscriber identity module (eSIM) profiles, each eSIM profile being associated with at least one quality of service (QoS) feature, performing a primary mapping between the plurality of eSIM profiles and applications available on the device based on QoS requirements of the applications, and performing transfer of data belonging to the applications using the mapped eSIM profiles corresponding to the primary mapping.

In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, a device in a wireless communication system is provided. The device includes a transceiver, and a processor configured to control the transceiver to receive a plurality of embedded subscriber identity module (eSIM) profiles, each eSIM profile being associated with at least one quality of service (QoS) feature, perform a primary mapping between the plurality of eSIM profiles and applications available on the device based on QoS requirements of the applications, and perform transfer of data belonging to the applications using the mapped eSIM profiles corresponding to the primary mapping.

Before undertaking the DETAILED DESCRIPTION below, it may be advantageous to set forth definitions of certain words and phrases used throughout this patent document, the terms "include" and "comprise," as well as derivatives thereof, mean inclusion without limitation, the term "or," is inclusive, meaning and/or, the phrases "associated with" and "associated therewith," as well as derivatives thereof, may mean to include, be included within, interconnect with, contain, be contained within, connect to or with, couple to or with, be communicable with, cooperate with, interleave, juxtapose, be proximate to, be bound to or with, have, have a property of, or the like, and the term "control ler" means any device, system or part thereof that controls at least one operation, such a device may be implemented in hardware, firmware or software, or some combination of at least two of the same.

Accordingly, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications of the various embodiments described herein can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

Accordingly, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of various embodiments of the disclosure is provided for illustrat ion purpose only and not for the purpose of limiting the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the disclosure will be described with reference to the accompany drawings. It should be understood, however, that the description is only illustrative, and is not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. In addition, the description of well-known structures and techniques are omitted in the following specification in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the concept of the disclosure.

It is to be understood by those skilled in the art that singular forms "a", "an", "the" and "said" used herein may also include plural forms unless otherwise indicated. It is to be further understood that the phrase "include/comprise" used in the specification indicates the presence of the said feature, integer, operation, element, and/or component, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, operations, elements, and/or components. It is to be understood that when an element is referred to as being "connected" or "coupled" to another element, it may be directly connected or coupled to the other element or there may be an intermediate element therebetween. Further, the phrase "connection" or "coupling" as used herein may include a wireless connection or a wireless coupling. The phrase "and/or" as used herein may include all or any of the one or more associated terms listed and all combinations thereof.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that all the terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as that is commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which the disclosure belongs, unless otherwise defined. It should also be understood that terms such as those defined in a general dictionary should be understood to have the meaning being in consistent with the meaning in the context of the prior art, and will not be explained as ideal ized or excessively formal meaning, unless specifically defined as herein.

Those skilled in the art may understand that the phrases "terminal" and "terminal device" as used herein include not only a radio signal receiver device, which is a device only having a radio signal receiver without a transmitting capability, but also a device with receiving and transmitting hardware, which is a device having receiving and transmitting hardware capable of performing a bidirectional communication over a bidirectional communication link. Such a device may include a cellular or other communication device having a single line display or a multi-line display or a cellular or other communication device without a multi-line display; a Personal Communication Service (PCS), which may combine voice, data processing, fax and/or data communication capabilities; a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), which may include a Radio Frequency (RF) receiver, a pager, Internet/Intranet access, a web browser, a notepad, a calendar, and/or a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver; a laptop of the related art and/or palmtop computer or other device, which may be a laptop of the related art and/or palmtop computer or other device having and/or including an RF receiver. The "terminal" and "terminal device" as used herein may be portable, transportable, installed in a vehicle (of aviation, maritime, and/or land), or may be adapted and/or configured to operate locally, and/or may operate in a distributed form on the earth and/or at any other locations in space. The "terminal" and "terminal device" used herein may also be a communication terminal, an Internet terminal, a music/video playing terminal, such as a PDA, a Mobile Internet Device (MID), and/or a mobile phone having a music/video playback function, or a smart TV, a set-top box and other devices.

The principal aspect of the embodiments herein is to disclose methods and systems for providing differentiated network connectivity to applications/services in a device based on Quality of Service (QoS) requirements of the applications/services, wherein the differentiated network connectivity is provided using embedded Subscriber Identity Module (eSIM) profiles and network slicing.

Another aspect of the embodiments herein is to map the applications/services with eSIM profiles associated with QoS features, wherein the QoS requirements of the applications/services are similar to/same as the QoS features associated with the eSIM profiles, wherein the applications/services can send or receive data using the eSIM profiles.

Another aspect of the embodiments herein is to dynamically remap the applications/services with the eSIMprofiles based onpattern of usage, context, behavior, and content of the applications/services, wherein the usage, context, behavior, and content of the applications/services can be monitored in order to determine the optimal eSIM profile that can be remapped with the applications/services.

Another aspect of the embodiments herein is to prioritize the applications/services to resolve conflicts, wherein the conflicts can arise if applications/services associated with the same eSIM profile attempt to transfer data at the same time, and if the applications/services associated with different eSIM profiles attempt to transfer data at the same time, if a single eSIM profile can be enabled at a particular time instant.

Accordingly, the embodiments herein provide systems and methods for connectivity management service across multiple application(s) within the electronic device.

Accordingly, the embodiments herein provide systems and methods for dynamically mapping each application to an e-SIM profile, which in turn gets mapped to a network slice (such as <NUM> network slice) by carriers.

Accordingly, the embodiments herein provide systems and methods for providing to a user to dynamically switch profile during the application usage.

Accordingly, the embodiments herein provide systems and methods for dynamically changing profile mapping based on periodically learned/analyzed data from an application usage, a user behavior, and an application context.

Embodiments herein disclose methods and systems for providing differentiated network connectivity to applications and services in a device based on Quality of Service (QoS) requirements of the applications and services, wherein the differentiated network connectivity is provided using embedded Subscriber Identity Module (eSIM) profiles and network slicing.

Referring now to the drawings, and more particularly to <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>, and <FIG>, where similar reference characters denote corresponding features consistently throughout the figures, there are shown preferred embodiments.

<FIG> illustrates an example device <NUM> configured for providing differentiated network connect ivity to applications and services using eSIMprofiles and network slicing, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The device <NUM> can include an eSIM, wherein the eSIM comprises a plurality of profiles and each profile can be linked with a Mobile Network Operator (MNO).

Referring to <FIG>, the device <NUM> includes an eSIM comprising of four profiles, viz. , profile <NUM>, profile <NUM>, profile <NUM>, and profile <NUM>. The profiles <NUM> and <NUM> can be linked to an MNO <NUM>. The profiles <NUM> and <NUM> can be linked to an MNO <NUM>. There can be a default profile, wherein the default profile can be used by applications/services not having specific QoS requirements.

Each of the profiles of the eSIM can be associated with at least one QoS feature. Examples of the QoS features can be, but not limited to, bandwidth, security, latency and so on. For example, each of the profiles of the eSIM can be associated with QoS features, QoS <NUM>, QoS <NUM>, and QoS <NUM>. Consider that the profile <NUM> is associated with high bandwidth, profile <NUM> is associated with high security, profile <NUM> is associated with low latency, and profile <NUM> is a default profile. The profile <NUM> can be used by applications/services not having specific QoS requirements.

The MNOs <NUM> and <NUM> may provide plans that are suitable to fulfill QoS requirements (QoS <NUM>, QoS <NUM>, and QoS <NUM>) of different applications and services in the device <NUM>. The applications and services are available in the device <NUM>, which can include installed applications/services and/or system applications/services. Each plan of an MNO can be linked to a profile. Consider that plan <NUM> offered by MNO <NUM> is a high bandwidth plan (QoS <NUM>) and is linked to profile <NUM>. The plan <NUM> offered by MNO <NUM> is a high security plan (QoS <NUM>) and is linked to profile <NUM>. The plan <NUM> offered by MNO <NUM> is a low latency plan (QoS <NUM>) and is linked to profile <NUM>. The plan <NUM> offered by MNO <NUM> is a default (<NUM>) (QoS <NUM>) plan and is linked to profile <NUM>. Users subscribed to a particular plan can transfer data using the profiles of the eSIM.

Based on usage, content, context, behavior, and so on, of the applications and services, the QoS requirements of the applications and services can be determined. Based on the QoS requirements, the applications and services can be mapped to eSIM profiles associated with QoS features for enabling data transfer. In <NUM> communication systems there are network slices for transfer of data, wherein different applications and services having specific QoS requirements can utilize appropriate network slices for transfer of data such that the QoS requirements are satisfied. The data that is transferred using the eSIM profiles, associated with specific QoS features, can be forwarded through the network slices facilitating the fulfillment of the QoS requirements of the applications and services.

<FIG> illustrates an example data transmission by a plurality of applications <NUM> using dedicated eSIM profiles, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, there are four eSIM profiles associated with QoS features. The embodiments include mapping at least one application/service with an eSIM profile. An application/service can be mapped with an eSIM profile, if there is a similarity between the QoS feature associated with the eSIM profile and the QoS requirements of the application/service. This mapping can be referred to as primary mapping. The mapping of an application/service with an eSIM profile can be dynamic, i.e., the mapping can be updated based on variations in QoS requirements of the application/service. The QoS requirements of the applications and services can vary due to usage pattern, behavior, changes in context and content of the applications and services. The usage pattern of the applications and services, content, and context (such as the device is in power saving mode, application or service is running in incognito mode, and so on) can be monitored over a period of time. Based on the monitoring, the current QoS requirements can be identified. Based on the current QoS requirements, the applications and services can be dynamically remapped with the eSIM profiles associated with appropriate QoS features. The remapping can be referred to as secondary mapping. The data to be transmitted through the eSIM profiles can be forwarded through the network slices such that QoS requirements of the applications and services are satisfied.

<FIG> illustrates various units of the device <NUM> configured to provide differentiated connectivity to applications and services in the device <NUM> using eSIM profiles and network slicing, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, the device <NUM> includes a mapping unit <NUM>, a monitoring unit <NUM>, a switching unit <NUM>, and a memory unit <NUM>. The device <NUM> can interact with a server <NUM>. The device can include a Local Profile Assistant (LPA) <NUM>, and at least one eSIM <NUM>.

Examples of the device <NUM> can be, but not limited to, a smartphone, a wearable device, a tablet, a wearable device, an Internet of Things (IoT) device, a vehicle infotainment system, a connected vehicle, and so on. Each of the at least one eSIM <NUM> can include at least one downloaded profile. Each of the eSIM profiles can be associated with QoS features such as security, latency, throughput, reliability, bandwidth, and so on. The device <NUM> can include a plurality of applications and services, with each of the applications and services having specific QoS requirements. In an embodiment, the mapping unit <NUM> can be a Deep Neural Network (DNN) based classifier. In an embodiment, the server <NUM> can be an intelligent connectivity mapper server. The eSIM profiles can be mapped with network slices at a <NUM> core network, wherein the QoS features associated with the eSIM profiles are same/similar to the QoS features supported by the network slices.

The mapping unit <NUM> can map the applications and services, in the device <NUM>, to the eSIM profiles based on QoS requirements of the applications and services. Initially, a seed mapping can be performed between the applications/services and the eSIM profiles. The mapping unit <NUM> can perform the seed mapping between each eSIM profile and each application/service, when the applications/services are used for the first time and/or usage pattern or behavior of the applications/services are not available. The seed mapping can be performed based on similarity/match between default QoS requirements of the applications/services and QoS features associated with the eSIM profiles.

The server <NUM> can identify the default QoS requirement of an application/service based on genre, category, description, permissions, and so on, of the application/service. The server <NUM> can associate the default QoS requirements with the applications/services. The device <NUM> can retrieve the default QoS requirements associated with applications/services in the device <NUM> from the server <NUM> (through at least one communication interface (not shown)). Once the seed mapping has been performed, data transfer (transmission/reception) by the applications/services can be performed using the eSIM profiles, with which the applications/services have been seed mapped. The similarity between the default QoS requirement of a particular application/service and the QoS feature associated with a particular eSIM profile allows meeting of the default QoS requirement of the particular application/service, if data transfer is performed using the eSIM profile.

In an example, for an instant messaging application, the default QoS requirement can be identified by the server <NUM> as 'low latency'. The device <NUM> can interact with the server <NUM> to determine the default QoS requirement of the instant messaging application. The default QoS requirement can be retrieved from the server, when the instant messaging application is installed for a first time and behavior, usage pattern, content, context, and so on, of the instant messaging application is not known. Once the default QoS requirement has been retrieved, the instant messaging application can be mapped, through seed mapping, with an eSIM profile associated with the QoS feature of low latency.

The monitoring unit <NUM> can monitor the pattern of usage, type of content, context, and so on, of each of the different applications/services in the device <NUM>. The applications/services can be monitored using a monitoring framework. The pattern of usage can reveal the features of the applications/services that have been used. The pattern of usage can also reveal the time and location at which different features of the applications/services are used. The context can refer to the location/time at which/during which the applications/services are used, settings of the device <NUM> (such as device <NUM> is in power saving mode or not, amount of charge remaining in the battery of the device <NUM>, screen mirroring is active or not, and so on), features of the applications/services used, genre and category of the applications/services in the device <NUM>, and so on. The content can refer to type/quality of content viewed/accessed using the applications/services.

In an example, consider that the usage pattern of the instant messaging application is being monitored. Based on the monitoring, it is determined that in daytime, the instant messaging application is used for sending and receiving text messages, while in the evening and the nights, the instant messaging application is used for making video calls. Consider, it is determined that from <NUM> hours to <NUM> hours, the QoS requirement is low latency (for transmission and reception of text messages); and from <NUM> hours to <NUM> hours, the QoS requirement is high bandwidth (for making the video calls). Consider that it is observed that the received text messages include high quality (1080p/2144p) videos or links to videos of high quality.

The current QoS requirements of each of the applications and services can be determined based on at least one of usage pattern, context, and content of the applications and services. In an example, for the instant messaging application, downloading the videos or streaming the high quality videos may require high throughput or bandwidth.

The switching unit <NUM> can determine an optimal eSIM profile that can be mapped to an application/service based on the monitored usage pattern, determined context, content, and so on, of the application/service. The optimal eSIM profile can be determined based on similarities between QoS feature associated with the eSIM profile and the current QoS requirements of the application/service. Once the optimal eSIM profile has been determined, the switching unit <NUM> can dynamically remap the application/service with the optimal eSIM profile.

Consider that the instant messaging application was initially mapped to an eSIM profile associated with the low latency feature. Based on monitoring of the instant messaging application, the current QoS requirement is determined to be high bandwidth. In this scenario, the switching unit <NUM> can dynamically switch the previous mapping (between the low latency eSIM profile and the instant messaging application) and perform a mapping between an eSIM profile associated with the high bandwidth QoS feature and the instant messaging application.

In an embodiment herein, the priorities can be assigned to applications/services, which can be overridden by a user of the device <NUM>. The priorities can be assigned in order to resolve conflicts, which may arise if at least two applications or services mapped with the same eSIM profile attempt to transfer data at the same time; and if a single profile can be enabled at a particular time instant, and at least two profiles, mapped with at least two eSIM profiles, attempt to send/receive data at the same time. The switching unit <NUM> can choose a particular application/service based on the priorities, if multiple applications/services mapped to the same eSIM profile are launched by the user. The switching unit <NUM> can also prevent the launch of an application/service (mapped with a first eSIM profile) while another application/service (mapped with a second eSIM profile) is running, if the device allows only one eSIM profile to be activated or used at a particular time instant.

The switching unit <NUM> can switch the mapping (or perform remapping) between the eSIM profiles and the applications/services in the device <NUM> through the LPA <NUM>.

The memory unit <NUM> can store logs of history of eSIM-application/service map switching. The logs can include the features and logic used for determining the optimal eSIM profiles for the applications/services, time at which the switching is performed, and so on. The logs can be used for mapping the applications/services with the eSIM profiles in the future. The logs can also be sent to the server <NUM> to improve the methods used for associating default QoS requirements with different applications/services, thereby improving the seed mapping procedure.

<FIG> shows various units of the device <NUM>, but it is to be understood that other embodiments are not limited thereon. In other embodiments, the device <NUM> may include less or more number of units. Further, the labels or names of the units are used only for illustrative purpose and does not limit the scope of the disclosure. One or more units can be combined together to perform same or substantially similar function in the device <NUM>.

<FIG> is a flowchart <NUM> illustrating a method for providing differentiated connectivity to applications and services in the device <NUM> using eSIM profiles and network slicing, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

At operation <NUM>, the method includes receiving eSIM profiles from MNOs. The eSIM profiles can be downloaded through the LPA <NUM>. The embodiments include associating a QoS feature to an eSIM profile.

Referring to <FIG>, consider that three eSIM profiles have been downloaded. The QoS features can be high bandwidth, high security, and low latency. The embodiments include associating high bandwidth with the first eSIM profile, high security with the second eSIM profile, and low latency with the third eSIM profile.

At operation <NUM>, the method includes mapping each eSIM profile with one or more applications/services in the device <NUM>. In an example, two applications, viz. , a video streaming application and a social media application, can be mapped to the same eSIM profile, associated with the high bandwidth feature.

The initial mapping can be a seed mapping, which is performed based on the degree of similarity between a default QoS requirement of an application/service and the QoS feature associated with an eSIM profile, associated with the QoS feature. The embodiments include retrieving the default QoS requirement from the server <NUM>, wherein the server <NUM> associates the default QoS requirement with the application/service based on, permissions, description, category, genre, and so on, of the application/service. Once the seed mapping has been performed, the embodiments include sending/receiving data belonging to the application/service through the eSIM profile.

At operation <NUM>, the method includes monitoring the applications/services in the device <NUM> for determining the usage pattern, content, and context of the applications/services. The usage pattern can be determined by monitoring the features of each of the applications and services that are being used, time and location at which different features of the applications and services are used, amount of data consumed per session by the applications and services, and so on. The context can be determined based on the usage pattern, application/service settings, mode of usage of the applications/services, and so on. The content can be determined type and quality of content that is been viewed and accessed using the applications and services, data consumption by each of the applications and services, and so on.

The embodiments include determining the current QoS requirements of the applications and services in the device <NUM> based on at least one of the monitored usage pattern, content, context, and so on. The embodiments include determining an optimal eSIM profile that can be mapped with the applications and services based on the current QoS requirements of the applications and services.

At operation <NUM>, the method includes remapping the applications and services with the optimal eSIM profiles based on the monitoring of the applications and services. In an embodiment, the remapping can be performed based on the priorities assigned to the applications and services. The remapping is performed if a high priority application/service, mapped to an eSIM profile, intends to send/receive data through the eSIM profile, while a low priority application/service is sending/receiving data through the same eSIM profile. However, the remapping may not be performed if the high priority application/service was sending/receiving data through the eSIM profile and the low priority application/service intended to send/receive data through the same eSIM profile.

In an embodiment, if a single eSIM profile can be enabled and the high priority application/service and the low priority application/service are mapped to different eSIM profiles, the eSIM profile mapped to the high priority application/service is enabled.

The various actions in the flowchart <NUM> may be performed in the order presented, in a different order, or simultaneously. Further, in some embodiments, some actions listed in <FIG> may be omitted.

<FIG> illustrates a flow of information across different components of a system for providing differentiated network connectivity to applications and services in the device <NUM>, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, the user <NUM> can request a Business Support System (BSS) <NUM> of an MNO for eSIM profiles. The eSIM profiles can be associated with QoS features. The eSIM profiles can be requested, if the user intends to use applications/services, having default QoS requirements, which are same/similar to the QoS features associated with the eSIM profiles. The QoS requirements of the applications/services are likely to be satisfied, if data is sent or received through the eSIM profiles.

The BSS <NUM> of the MNO can order the requested eSIM profiles from a Subscription Manager Data Preparation + (SM-DP+) <NUM>. The SM-DP+ can confirm the order and send an acknowledgement to the BSS. The LPA <NUM> (<NUM>, <FIG>) can download the eSIM profiles and store the eSIM profiles in an embedded Universal Integrated Circuit Card (eUICC) or eSIM. The BSS can inform the <NUM> core network about the downloaded eSIM profiles. The eSIM profiles can be linked to a single subscriber ID. The <NUM> core network <NUM> can map the eSIM profiles with network slices, wherein the QoS features associated with the eSIM profiles are similar/same as the QoS features supported by the respective network slices.

An application/service connectivity mapper <NUM>, which is a combination of the mapping unit <NUM>, monitoring unit <NUM> and switching unit <NUM>, can map the applications <NUM> and services to the downloaded eSIM profiles. The mappings can be overridden by the user, if necessary. When the user launches an application/service, data transfer can be performed using the eSIM profile mapped to the application/service. The data belonging to the application/service can flow through the appropriate network slice (mapped to the eSIM profile).

<FIG> illustrates a User Interface (UI) <NUM> for providing permission to enable or disable network profile switching, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

In an embodiment, for each of the applications and services, permission can be acquired, based on which network profile switching feature can be either enabled or disabled. If the network profile switching is enabled, i.e., if the permission is granted, for a particular application/service, the embodiments include dynamically (re)mapping the application/service to other eSIM profiles based on current QoS requirements of the application/service. The network profile switching involves switching from a first eSIM profile-application/service mapping to a second eSIM profile-application/service mapping. The embodiments include monitoring the usage pattern, context, content, and so on, of each of the applications and services, for which the network profile switching feature is enabled.

Referring to <FIG>, the UI enables the user to permit the device <NUM> (or grant the permission) to perform network profile switching. In an embodiment, the user can provide the permission when an application/service is launched for the first time. If the user does not grant the permission or an application/service, the networkprofile switching can be disabled, and the switching of eSIM profile-application/service mapping is not performed. The usage pattern, context, content, and so on, of the application/service may not be monitored. The seed mapping, initially performed based on the default QoS requirement of the application/service, can be maintained.

<FIG> is a use case scenario illustrating switching of an instant messaging application-eSIM profile mapping by an application/service connectivity mapper <NUM> based on learning usage pattern of the instant messaging application, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

In an example, the device <NUM> can include an eSIM (eUICC) <NUM> comprising of four profiles associated with four QoS features, viz. , high bandwidth (labeled as HB), low latency (labeled as LL), high security (labeled as HS), and default (labeled as DF).

Referring to <FIG>, consider that the instant messaging application is initially mapped to the eSIM profile associated with the QoS feature of low latency. The mapping can be the seed mapping (performed based on the default QoS requirement, determined based on genre of the instant messaging application, when the user installs the instant messaging application or launches the instant messaging application for the first time), or a previous mapping performed based on monitoring the application usage.

The embodiments include monitoring the usage of the instant messaging application to learn the pattern of usage (sending and receiving text messages during the daytime and making video calls in the evening). The embodiments include determining an optimal eSIM profile associated with a QoS feature based on the latest QoS requirements of the instant messaging application, wherein the latest QoS requirements is same as/similar to the QoS feature of the optimal eSIM profile. Based on the usage pattern, the optimal profile is determined to be an eSIM profile associated with high bandwidth feature. Thereafter, the embodiments include switching from the eSIM profile associated with the low latency feature to the eSIM profile associated with high bandwidth feature. The embodiments include performing a mapping between the instant messaging application and high bandwidth eSIM profile.

<FIG> is a use case scenario illustrating switching of a browser application-eSIM profile mapping based on context of the browser application, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

In an example, the device <NUM> can include two eSIMs (eUICCs), wherein each of the eSIMs comprises of four profiles, wherein the profiles in each of the eSIMs are associated with QoS features of high bandwidth, low latency, high security, and default.

Referring to <FIG>, consider that the browser application is initially mapped to the eSIM profile associated with the default QoS feature in the first eSIM. The mapping can be the seed mapping. The browser application can be initially mapped to the default eSIM profile, as the browser can be used for different purposes such as streaming videos, reading text, performing transactions, accessing audio files, and so on. For each of the purposes, the QoS requirements can be different. When the user installs the browser application or launches the browser application for the first time, the user behavior is not known), or a previous mapping performed based on monitoring the user behavior or activity as the browser application is used.

The embodiments include detecting a context change, wherein it is detected that the user has shifted from a general mode to an incognito mode for browsing. The latest QoS requirement is determined to be high security, as the browsing is being performed in the incognito mode. The embodiments include determining that the optimal eSIM profile is the eSIM profile associated with the QoS of high security. In an embodiment, the browser can operate in the incognito mode by switching from the eSIM profile associated with the default QoS feature to the eSIM profile associated with high security feature in the second eSIM. In another embodiment, the browser can operate in the incognito mode by transferring data through the eSIM profile associated with the high security feature in the first eSIM. For this scenario, the high security feature in the first eSIM can be enabled.

<FIG> is a use case scenario illustrating switching of a video streaming application-eSIM profile mapping based on content accessed using the video streaming application, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

In an example, the device <NUM> can include two eSIMs (eUICCs), wherein each eSIM (eUICC) comprises of four eSIM profiles associated with QoS features of high bandwidth, low latency, high security, and default.

Referring to <FIG>, consider that the video streaming application is currently mapped to the eSIM profile, associated with the high bandwidth feature, in the first eSIM (eSIM <NUM>). The mapping can be performed based on monitoring the usage of the video streaming application. It is determined that the user is viewing high quality videos using the video streaming application. Based on the content viewed by the user, the embodiments include determining that the current QoS requirement is high bandwidth. Therefore, the video streaming appl ication can be mapped to the eSIM profile associated with the high bandwidth feature.

The embodiments include detecting a change in the viewed content, wherein it is detected that the user has shifted the quality of video from high quality to medium or low quality. The embodiments include determining that the optimal eSIM profile can be the eSIM profile associated with the default QoS feature in the first eSIM or second eSIM (eSIM <NUM>). If the optimal eSIM profile is considered to be the eSIM profile associated with the default QoS feature in the second eSIM, the embodiments include switching from the eSIM profile associated with the high bandwidth feature to the eSIM profile associated with default QoS feature in the second eSIM. On the other hand, if the optimal eSIM profile is considered to be the eSIM profile associated with the default QoS feature in the first eSIM, the default QoS feature in the first eSIM can be enabled. The video streaming application can be accessed through the eSIM profile associated with the default QoS feature in the first eSIM.

<FIG> is a use case scenario illustrating conflict resolution using priorities assigned to applications and services in the device <NUM>, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

In an example, consider that the device <NUM> includes an eSIM <NUM> and an ordinary SIM. The eSIM comprises of four downloaded profiles, associated with the QoS features of high bandwidth, low latency, high security, and default. The user can subscribe to a default plan (labeled as DF) on the ordinary SIM.

Referring to <FIG>, consider that the user is accessing a first application assigned with a high priority, which is mapped to the eSIM profile associated with the high bandwidth QoS feature. In this situation, consider that the user launches a second application assigned with a low priority and mapped to the same eSIM profile associated with the high bandwidth QoS feature. As two applications mapped to the same eSIM profile attempt to use the eSIM profile to send/receive data at the same time, a conflict arises.

The embodiments include allowing the first application to continue using the eSIM profile to send/receive data, as the first application is assigned with higher priority. The embodiments allow the second application to send/receive data through the default plan on the ordinary SIM to resolve the conflict.

<FIG> is another use case scenario illustrating conflict resolution using priorities assigned to applications and services in the device <NUM>, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

In an example, consider that the device <NUM> is a connected car. The connected car includes two eSIMs (eSIM1 and eSIM2). Each eSIM comprises of four downloaded profiles, which are associated with the QoS features of high bandwidth, low latency, high security, and default.

Referring to <FIG>, consider that the user (driver) is using a telematics unit. The telematics unit can be a gateway that can retrieve and relay information about infrastructure (such as a warning about damaged road ahead). The telematics unit can be assigned with a high priority, which is mapped to an eSIM profile associated with the low latency QoS feature in the first eSIM. In this situation, consider that the user launches a video streaming application assigned with a low priority and mapped to the eSIM profile associated with the high bandwidth QoS feature in the second eSIM. If the connected car can enable only one of the eSIMs at a particular time instant, a conflict is likely to arise. The conflict arises as the video streaming application attempts to send/receive data using the high bandwidth eSIM profile in the second eSIM, while the telematics unit (assigned with high priority) is using the low latency profile on the first eSIM to send/receive data.

In order to resolve the conflict, the connected car may lock the video streaming application (assigned with low priority) or make it inaccessible to the user. Consequently, the user may not be able to access the video streaming application. However, if the connected car is able to enable both eSIMs simultaneously, the user is able to access the video streaming application using the high bandwidth eSIM profile in the second eSIM.

In an embodiment, if the connected car includes a single eSIM, comprising of four profiles, each associated with QoS features, and an ordinary SIM, then the video streaming application can be allowed to send/receive data through the default plan on the ordinary SIM, for resolving the conflict.

In case the connected car includes only a single eSIM (and the ordinary SIM, including the default profile is not available), then an application/service assigned with a higher priority can take precedence and the QoS profile of the higher priority application/service can be used for other applications/services.

<FIG> is a use case scenario illustrating switching of eSIM profiles based on switching of applications in the foreground, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, consider that the user is using a social media application. The social media application is being displayed in the foreground. The social media application can be mapped to an eSIM profile associated with the high bandwidth QoS feature in the first eSIM.

If the user launches a banking application mapped with an eSIM profile associated with the high security QoS feature in the second eSIM, the banking application will be displayed in the foreground. Therefore, the embodiments include switching from the high bandwidth eSIM profile on the first eSIM to the high security eSIM profile on the second eSIM.

In an embodiment, if the banking application is mapped with an eSIM profile associated with the high security QoS feature in the first eSIM the banking application will be displayed in the foreground and the high security eSIM profile on the first eSIM can be enabled.

<FIG> illustrates a schematic diagram for overview of differentiated application connectivity, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Embodiments herein provide systems and methods for dynamically mapping each of an application to an electronic SIM (e-SIM) profile in an electronic device that in turn will be mapped to a <NUM> network slice by carriers. Embodiments herein provide mechanism for systems and methods to dynamically switch profile during the usage of application in the electronic device. Embodiments herein provide network slicing (such as <NUM> network) capability to a user.

In an embodiment, the system may include connectivity management module to dynamically configure application(s) to e-SIM profiles. In an embodiment, the connectivity management module comprises a profile association learning module. In an embodiment, profile association learning module is configured to associate application(s)/service(s) with their primary profiles and secondary profiles, based on the characteristics of the application(s)/service(s) and a user behavior. In an embodiment, the system is configured to monitoring a Quality of Service or a Quality of Experience (QoS/QoE) level during usage of each application. The system is configured to recommend the user to switch/change mapping of the profile.

Referring to <FIG>, at a first step, systems and methods includes acquire QoS based e-SIM profiles. In an embodiment, acquiring multiple e-SIM profiles with a different QoS. At a second step systems and methods includes intelligent association of applications to QoS profiles, based on nature/characteristics of application and user behavior. At a third step systems and methods includes allotting specific QoS profile to applications for connectivity at the run-time based on availability (for QoS profiles) and associated preference of the applications.

<FIG> illustrates a block diagram for service flow of differentiated application connectivity, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, at a first step <NUM>, requesting multiple profiles with different QoS. At a second step <NUM>, downloading order and confirming order. At a third step <NUM>, approving/acknowledging the profiles/orders. At a fourth step <NUM>, download e-SIM profiles (i.e. multiple profiles based on different QoS requested). At a fifth step <NUM>, automatically associating intelligent profile with apps (on profile installation as well as installation of a new app). At a sub step of fifth step (5A) validating/updating application to profile mapping. At a sixth step <NUM> appending embedded Universal Integrated Circuit Card (e-UICC) profiles to application(s) map. At a seventh step <NUM>, launch application(s). At an eighth step <NUM>, connecting corresponding profile. At a ninth step <NUM>, enabling corresponding profile and switching the current application to secondary profile. At a tenth step <NUM>, network connection on appropriate slice.

<FIG> illustrates a sequence diagram for acquiring QoS based e-SIM profiles, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

In an embodiment, multiple e-SIM profile may be provided and a User Data Management (UDM) may be attached to subscriber Identity (ID). In an embodiment, user may provide the authentication document(s) offline during first subscription. In an embodiment, user may be provided with multiple profiles mapped to same subscriber ID and each profile may be mapped to unique network slice.

<FIG> illustrates a sequence diagram for mapping application to QoS profile, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, user may have multiple profiles installed in a Local Profile Assistant (LPA) of the electronic device (i.e. Profile Provisioning Procedure). In an embodiment, triggering intelligent association of profiles (with matching QoS) with corresponding application(s) may be performed. In an embodiment, at a first step <NUM>, a mapping between application(s) and corresponding primary/secondary profiles may be created based on nature/characteristics of application and user behavior. In an embodiment, application may be installed (i.e. new application). In an embodiment, association of profiles may be triggered with matching QoS for the newly installed/updated application. In an embodiment, at a second step <NUM>, the user may review app connection management and may view list of applications and may map them to different primary profile and secondary profile. In an embodiment, user may be provided with each application mapped to two profiles (primary and secondary Profile) and each application may receive required QoS/QoE from the network.

<FIG> illustrates a sequence diagram for management application connectivity, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, user may be provided with mapped apps to profiles. In an embodiment, applications may be launched. In an embodiment, connecting to corresponding profile may be performed. In an embodiment, if primary profile is free to use, then enabling primary profile is performed and connecting application using right network slice may be performed. In an embodiment, if primary profile is in use, then existing application is switched (associated with primary profile) to secondary and connecting to primary profile. In an embodiment, enablement of both primary and secondary profiles is ensured. In an embodiment, application is connected using appropriate network slice. In an embodiment, during dormant state, all applications may receive notification using default profile.

Embodiments herein provide systems and methods for providing optimal network connectivity to each application(s) in the electronic device. Embodiments herein may leverage e-SIM technology to load the electronic device with multiple profiles. Embodiments herein may percolates down the <NUM> network slicing that may be advantage to end consumers. Embodiments herein may enable users to select the desired QoS for apps for optimized cost. Embodiments herein discloses <NUM> User Data Management (UDM) server to map subscriber profile to network slice.

<FIG> is a block diagram illustrating an internal structure of device according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Specifically, <FIG> is a block diagram illustrating the internal structure of the device <NUM> according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Referring to <FIG>, the device <NUM> of the disclosure may include a processor <NUM>, a transceiver <NUM>, and memory <NUM>. However, components of the device <NUM> are not limited to the examples set forth above. For example, the device <NUM> may include more components or less components than the components set forth above. In addition, the processor <NUM>, the transceiver <NUM>, and the memory <NUM> may be implemented in the form of one chip.

The processor <NUM> may control a series of processes in which the device <NUM> may be operated according to the above-described embodiments of the disclosure. For example, the processor <NUM> may control the transceiver <NUM> to receive a plurality of embedded Subscriber Identity Module (eSIM) profiles, wherein each eSIM profile is associated with at least one Quality of Service (QoS) feature, perform a primary mapping between the plurality of eSIM profiles and applications available on the device based on QoS requirements of the applications, and perform transfer of data belonging to the applications using the mapped eSIM profiles corresponding to the primary mapping.

The transceiver <NUM> may transmit a signal to and receive a signal from a gNB. The signal set forth above may include control information and data. For this purpose, the transceiver <NUM> may include a radio frequency (RF) transmitter up-converting and amplifying a frequency of a transmitted signal, an RF receiver performing low-noise amplification and frequency down-conversion on a received signal, and the like. In addition, the transceiver <NUM> may receive a signal through a radio channel and output the signal to the processor <NUM>, and may transmit, through the radio channel, a signal that is output from the processor <NUM>.

The memory <NUM> may store at least one of information transmitted and received by the transceiver <NUM> or information generated by the processor <NUM>. In addition, the memory <NUM> may store control information or data included in an acquired signal. The memory <NUM> may include a storage medium such as read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), a hard disk, compact disc ROM (CD-ROM), and a digital versatile disc (DVD), or a combination of storage media. Further, the memory <NUM> may include a plurality of memories.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, a method for providing an application (or) a service specific subscription profiles for a device (<NUM>) is provided. The method includes receiving, by the device (<NUM>), a plurality of embedded Subscriber Identity Module (eSIM) profiles, wherein each eSIM profile is associated with at least one Quality of Service (QoS) feature, performing, by the device (<NUM>), a primary mapping between the plurality of eSIM profiles and applications (or) services available on the device (<NUM>) based on QoS requirements of the applications (or) services; and performing, by the device (<NUM>), transfer of data belonging to the applications (or) services using the mapped eSIM profiles corresponding to the primary mapping.

In the embodiment, wherein the QoS requirements are default QoS requirements associated, by a server (<NUM>), to the applications (or) services, wherein the device (<NUM>) retrieves the default QoS requirements from the server (<NUM>), wherein the server (<NUM>) associates the default QoS requirements based on at least one of genre, category, and description, of the applications (or) services.

In the embodiment, wherein the data belonging to the applications (or) services is transferred using network slices facilitating the QoS requirements of the applications (or) services, wherein the network slices are associated with the mapped eSIM profiles corresponding to the primary mapping.

In the embodiment, wherein the QoS requirements of the applications (or) services are one of similar to the QoS features associated with the eSIM profiles, and same as the QoS features associated with the eSIM profiles.

In the embodiment, wherein the method further includes monitoring, by the device (<NUM>), at least one of usage pattern, content, and context, of the applications (or) services, identifying, by the device (<NUM>), a change in the QoS requirements of the applications (or) services based on at least one of the monitored usage pattern, content, and context, of the applications (or) services, selecting, by the device (<NUM>), eSIM profiles from the plurality of eSIM profiles for performing a secondary mapping with the applications (or) services, based on the identified change in QoS requirements of the applications (or) services, performing, by the device (<NUM>), the secondary mapping between the applications (or) services and the selected eSIM profiles, and performing, by the device (<NUM>), transfer of data belonging to the applications (or) services using the eSIM profiles corresponding to the secondary mapping.

In the embodiment, wherein the current QoS requirements of the applications (or) services are one of similar to the QoS features associated with the selected eSIMprofiles, and same as the QoS features associated with the selected eSIM profiles.

In the embodiment, wherein the usage pattern is determined based on at least one of time of usage of features of the applications (or) services, locations of usage of the features, and data consumption during each session; wherein the context is determined based on at least one of the usage pattern, settings of the device (<NUM>) when the applications (or) services are launched, mode of usage of the applications (or) services; wherein the content is determined based on at least one of type of content, and quality of content, accessed during each data session.

In the embodiment, wherein the method further includes assigning priorities to the applications (or) services mapped to same eSIM profile, wherein the applications (or) services are selected for data transfer through the eSIM profile based on the assigned priorities.

In the embodiment, wherein the method further includes assigning priorities to the applications (or) services mapped to different eSIM profiles if the device (<NUM>) enables data transfer through a single eSIM profile at a time instant, wherein the applications (or) services are selected for data transfer through the mapped eSIM profiles based on the assigned priorities.

In the embodiment, wherein the primary mapping is based on a similarity between the QoS feature associated with each eSIM profile and the QoS requirements of the applications.

According to another embodiment of the disclosure, a method for providing application (or) service specific subscription profiles for a device (<NUM>) is provided. The method includes receiving, by the device (<NUM>), a plurality of embedded Subscriber Identity Module (eSIM) profiles, wherein each eSIM profile is associated with at least one Quality of Service (QoS) feature, performing, by the device (<NUM>), a primary mapping between the plurality of eSIM profiles and applications (or) services in the device (<NUM>) based on QoS requirements of the applications (or) services, monitoring, by the device (<NUM>), at least one of usage pattern, content, and context, of the applications (or) services, selecting, by the device (<NUM>), eSIM profiles for performing a secondary mapping with the applications (or) services based on at least one of the usage pattern, content, context, of the applications (or) services, performing, by the device (<NUM>), the secondary mapping between the applications (or) services and the selected eSIM profiles, and performing, by the device (<NUM>), transfer of data belonging to the applications (or) services through the selected eSIM profiles.

According to another embodiment of the disclosure, a device (<NUM>) for providing differentiated network connectivity to applications (or) services is provided. The device (<NUM>) configured to receive a plurality of embedded Subscriber Identity Module (eSIM) profiles, wherein each eSIM profile is associated with at least one Quality of Service (QoS) feature, perform a primary mapping between the plurality of eSIM profiles and the applications (or) services available on the device (<NUM>) based on QoS requirements of the applications (or) services, and perform transfer of data belonging to the applications (or) services using the mapped eSIM profiles corresponding to the primary mapping.

In another embodiment, wherein the QoS requirements are default QoS requirements associated, by a server (<NUM>), to the applications (or) services, wherein the device (<NUM>) is configured to retrieve the default QoS requirements from the server (<NUM>), wherein the server (<NUM>) associates the default QoS requirements based on at least one of genre, category, and description, of the applications (or) services.

In another embodiment, wherein data belonging to the applications (or) services is transferred using network slices facilitating the QoS requirements of the applications (or) services, wherein the network slices are associated with the mapped eSIM profiles corresponding to the primary mapping.

In another embodiment, wherein the QoS requirements of the applications (or) services are one of similar to the QoS features associated with the eSIM profiles, and same as the QoS features associated with the eSIM profiles.

In another embodiment, wherein the device (<NUM>) is further configured to monitor at least one of usage pattern, content, and context, of the applications (or) services, identify a change in the QoS requirements of the applications (or) services based on at least one of the monitored usage pattern, content, context, of the applications (or) services, select eSIM profiles for performing a secondary mapping with the applications (or) services based on the identified change in QoS requirements of the applications (or) services, perform the secondary mapping between the applications (or) services and the selected eSIM profiles, and perform transfer of data belonging to the applications (or) services using the selected eSIM profiles corresponding to the secondary mapping.

In another embodiment, wherein the current QoS requirements of the applications (or) services are one of similar to the QoS features associated with the selected eSIM profiles, and same as the QoS features associated with the selected eSIM profiles.

In another embodiment, wherein the usage pattern is determined based on at least one of time of usage of features of the applications (or) services, locations of usage of the features, and data consumption during each session; wherein the context is determined based on at least one of the usage pattern, settings of the device (<NUM>) when the applications (or) services are launched, mode of usage of the applications (or) services; wherein the content is determined based on at least one of type of content, and quality of content, accessed during each data session.

In another embodiment, wherein the device (<NUM>) is further configured to assign priorities to the applications (or) services mapped to a same eSIM profile, wherein the application (or) services are selected for data transfer through the eSIM profile based on the assigned priorities.

In another embodiment, wherein the device (<NUM>) is further configured to assign priorities to the applications (or) services mapped to different eSIM profiles if the device (<NUM>) enables data transfer through a single eSIMprofile at a time instant, wherein the application (or) services are selected for data transfer through the mapped eSIM profiles based on the assigned priorities.

In another embodiment, wherein the primary mapping is based on a similarity between the QoS feature associated with each eSIM profile and the QoS requirements of the applications.

The embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented through at least one software program running on at least one hardware device and performing network management funct ions to control the network elements. The network elements shown in <FIG> include blocks which can be at least one of a hardware device, or a combination of hardware device and software module.

The embodiments disclosed herein describe methods and systems for providing differentiated network connectivity to applications and services in a device based on QoS requirements of the applications and services, wherein the differentiated network connectivity is provided using eSIM profiles and network slicing. Therefore, it is understood that the scope of the protection is extended to such a program and in addition to a computer readable means having a message therein, such computer readable storage means contain program code means for implementation of one or more steps of the method, when the program runs on a server or mobile device or any suitable programmable device. The method is implemented in a preferred embodiment through or together with a software program written in e.g. Very high speed integrated circuit Hardware Description Language (VHDL) another programming language, or implemented by one or more VHDL or several software modules being executed on at least one hardware device. The hardware device can be any kind of portable device that can be programmed. The device may also include means which could be e.g. hardware means like e.g. an Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), or a combination of hardware and software means, e.g. an ASIC and a Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), or at least one microprocessor and at least one memory with software modules located therein. The method embodiments described herein could be implemented partly in hardware and partly in software. Alternatively, the disclosure may be implemented on different hardware devices, e.g. using a plurality of Central Processing Units (CPUs).

The foregoing is merely illustrative of the preferred embodiments of the disclosure, and is not intended to limit the disclosure. Anymodifications, equivalents, improvements, etc., which are made within the principle of the disclosure, should be included in the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

It is to be appreciated by those skilled in the art that any of the devices involving the performance of one or more of the operations described herein is included in the scope of the disclosure. These devices may be specially designed and manufactured for desired purposes, or may also include a known device(s) in a general purpose computer. These devices have computer programs stored therein that are selectively activated or reconfigured. Such computer programs may be stored in a device (e.g., computer) readable medium or in any type of medium suitable for storing electronic instructions and coupled to a bus, respectively. The computer readable medium may include but is not limited to any type of disk (including a floppy disk, a hard disk, an optical disk, a CD-ROM, and a magnetic optical disk), Read-Only Memory (ROM), Random Access Memory (RAM), Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EPROM), Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM), flash memory, magnetic card or optical card. That is to say, the readable medium may include any medium that stores or transmits information in a device (e.g., computer) readable manner.

It is to be appreciated by those skilled in the art that each of the blocks in the structure diagrams and/or block diagrams and/or flow diagrams and combinations of the blocks in the structure diagrams and/or block diagrams and/or flow diagrams may be implemented by the computer program instructions. It is to be appreciated by those skilled in the art that such computer program instructions may be provided to a general purpose computer, a dedicated computer, or other programmable processor that may execute data processing methods, such that the scheme specified by one or more blocks in the structure diagrams and/or block diagrams and/or flow diagrams disclosed in the disclosure may be executed by the computer or the other programmable processor that may execute data processing methods.

It is to be understood by those skilled in the art that the steps, means, and schemes in various operations, methods, and processes that have been discussed in the disclosure may be replaced, modified, combined, or deleted. Further, other steps, means, and schemes in various operations, methods, and processes that have been discussed in the disclosure may also be replaced, modified, rearranged, divided, combined, or deleted. Still further, the steps, means, and schemes in various operations, methods, and processes that have been discussed in the disclosure may also be replaced, modified, rearranged, divided, or combined with the steps, means, and schemes in the prior art.

The foregoing is merely a part of the implementations of the disclosure, and it should be noted that various improvements and polishing may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the principles of the disclosure. And the improvements and polishing should be considered as being within the scope of the disclosure.

Claim 1:
A method for operating a device (<NUM>) in a wireless communication system, the method characterized in comprising
receiving (<NUM>) a plurality of embedded subscriber identity module, eSIM, profiles, each eSIM profile being associated with at least one quality of service, QoS, feature;
performing (<NUM>) a primary mapping between the plurality of eSIM profiles and applications available on the device (<NUM>) based on QoS requirements of the applications; and
performing transfer of data belonging to the applications using the mapped eSIM profiles corresponding to the primary mapping,
wherein the data includes first data belonging to a first application mapped to a first eSIM profile and second data belonging to a second application mapped to a second eSIM profile, and
wherein, among the mapped eSIM profiles, the first eSIM profile is used for performing transfer of the first data and the second eSIM profile is used for performing transfer of the second data.