GSMA , the global mobile industry association, announced the launch of GSMA Entitlements, a new innovative cloud-based platform to help mobile operators rapidly activate and manage next-generation features and applications on devices that operate using Apple iOS and Android platforms.
In partnership with telecom software company NetLync , GSMA Entitlements helps mobile network operators (both MNOs and MVNOs) simplify and speed up the time it takes to activate new services, including eSIM Transfer, Satellite messaging, Cross RCS, 5G data management, VoWiFI, and companion devices. The platform is designed to help network operators overcome costly and complex onboarding processes, accelerate their time to market, and comply with device manufacturer requirements - without the need to build or maintain their own entitlements infrastructure.
Traditional entitlement server setups require several months of custom development and integration work using device maker specifications, and the process is repeated when new features or specifications emerge from device manufacturers.
"GSMA Entitlements marks a major step forward in simplifying mobile feature activation. As connectivity evolves, operators need solutions that are fast, secure, and device manufacturer-compliant by default. Our platform removes the integration burden, shortens deployment times, and helps operators of all sizes deliver seamless experiences across devices and operating systems."
- Sianne Ryder, General Manager, GSMA Services
GSMA Entitlements helps all operators quickly launch new features in as little as four to six weeks using NetLync's Diameter Security Gateway (DSG). The service achieves this by combining SaaS and PaaS capabilities and single integration with the GSMA's Network Settings Exchange (NSX) service. GSMA is increasingly focussed on enabling stronger operator manufacturer engagement through its interoperability solutions. GSMA Entitlements, on top of interoperability testing and NSX services further enforces this.
Mobile operators are facing increasing pressure to deliver seamless device experiences and reduce operational costs while managing the complexity of multiple use cases and proprietary device manufacturer processes and standards.
Google, Samsung, and other Android device manufacturers now require entitlement servers for full compatibility with the latest GSMA specifications for eSIM, RCS, companion devices and 5G services. Apple requires entitlements to provision iOS features, such as eSIM Quick Transfer, Apple Watch, device authentication for FaceTime and iMessage and cross platform RCS. In response, most operators either work with third-party vendors or build custom in-house solutions - a costly, time consuming, and often piecemeal process, especially when onboarding new features or platforms.
GSMA Entitlements changes that, enabling operators to centrally manage feature activation across both Android and iOS devices, authenticating users and devices, coordinating with device makers, and delivering policy-driven configurations to the device, all in one central platform with advanced AI assisted APIs and reporting features.
"NetLync was founded to simplify entitlement deployments and accelerate innovation. With GSMA Entitlements, we're delivering the industry's first true Entitlements-as-a-Service platform, built from the ground up for speed, transparency, and agility. By working hand-in-hand with OEMs and carriers worldwide, we're enabling operators of every size to integrate new features in weeks, measure performance in real time, and confidently be ready for the future. We are excited to partner with the GSMA to empower operators and set higher standards for the industry."
- Emir Aboulhosn, CEO & Co-Founder, NetLync
The service is also fully compliant with device manufacturer entitlement specifications (including GSMA TS.43) and is already trusted by leading operators globally. Additionally, GSMA Entitlements works alongside existing entitlement solutions, offering a low-risk, futureproof upgrade path with no disruption to current operations.
In fact, most operator customers who have trialled the service have integrated GSMA Entitlements into their OSS/BSS stack in just four weeks, using only two or three developers.