scope:

This Technical Specification (TS) defines the functional characteristics and requirements of the Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) for use in GSM and DCS 1800 applications. All references to GSM shall apply equally to DCS 1800 unless otherwise stated.

The SIM is the entity that contains the identity of the subscriber. When placed in a Mobile Equipment (ME), together they become a Mobile Station (MS) which may then register onto a GSM network.

The primary function of the SIM in conjunction with a GSM network is to authenticate the validity of an MS when accessing the network. In addition it provides a means to authenticate the user and may also store other subscriber-related information. Subscription entitlements are stored not in the SIM, but in the network.

If the SIM functionality is incorporated into a multi-application ETSI/TE9 card, the GSM application may be used in other telecommunication applications.

In addition SIMs are permitted to contain non-GSM functionality. In the case of multi-application cards, this TS defines just the GSM application.