Overview of Tata Communications
Tata Communications is a digital infrastructure company in India's Tata Group, based in Mumbai. It provides interconnection in more than 200 countries and regions. It owns one of the largest private underground fiber networks, and that network carries about 30% of global internet routes.
For IoT it runs MOVE (Multi-network Over Virtual eSIM). A virtual eSIM lets a device move among more than 600 networks, so one SIM can be used worldwide. Automotive, manufacturing, and logistics companies use it for projects that span more than one country.
Tata Communications facts
- Founded: 1986, as VSNL (Videsh Sanchar Nigam Limited)
- Headquarters: Mumbai, India
- Parent: Tata Group
- Coverage: More than 200 countries and regions
- IoT platform: MOVE (Multi-network Over Virtual eSIM)
- Network: One of the largest private underground fiber networks
- Partners: Access to more than 600 operator networks
Core Technical Capabilities
MOVE Virtual eSIM
A virtual eSIM that can switch a single SIM among more than 600 networks
Global fiber
A private fiber network across five continents, carrying about 30% of global internet traffic
Connected vehicle expertise
Connected-car service for large automakers, including roaming and remote diagnostics
Enterprise security
Encrypted transmission, a separated network, and alignment with rules such as GDPR
The MOVE platform
MOVE is Tata Communications' flagship IoT connectivity management platform. Its core innovation lies in virtual eSIM (vSIM) technology — unlike traditional eSIMs, MOVE does not rely on built-in eSIM hardware in devices. Instead, it enables multi-network switching on any standard SIM card through software, greatly reducing hardware requirements for global deployment.
MOVE Platform Features
Intelligent Network Switching
- Automatic Switching Based on Signal Strength
- Network Selection Optimized Based on Cost
- Routing Based on Compliance Requirements
- 600+ global network options
Connection Management
- Unified global SIM management interface
- Real-time traffic and cost monitoring
- Automated alert rule engine
- Fully open REST API
Data Security
- Dedicated private APN channel
- Static IP address allocation
- VPN tunnel encryption
- Multi-region data residency
Analytics and insights
- Device connection quality analysis
- Cost Optimization Recommendations
- Abnormal Traffic Detection
- Custom Report Export
Network Coverage and Technical Support
| Technology Type | Coverage | Use Cases | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4G LTE (Virtual eSIM) | Over 200 countries worldwide | Mainstream IoT device connections | The widest coverage globally |
| 5G NR (partner networks) | Major developed countries | High-speed IoT and industrial applications | Provided through partner operators |
| LTE-M/NB-IoT | Support partner operator networks | Low-power sensor devices | Intelligent network selection |
| Private IP network | Global optical cable backbone network | Dedicated Security Channel for Enterprises | Low latency, high reliability |
| SD-WAN | Global Enterprise Sites | Branch IoT Access | Flexible Routing Management |
Industry Solutions
Automotive and Connected Vehicles
- Global Vehicle Connectivity Roaming
- Vehicle Remote Diagnosis OTA
- Emergency Call eCall/ERA
- Autonomous Driving Data Upload
Manufacturing and Industry
- Cross-border Factory Equipment Monitoring
- Global Asset Tracking Management
- Predictive Maintenance of Equipment
- Real-Time Collection of Production Data
Logistics and Supply Chain
- Real-Time Tracking of Cross-Border Goods
- Full-Process Temperature Monitoring of Cold Chain
- Container Status Awareness
- Last-mile delivery
Retail and Payments
- Global POS terminal connectivity
- ATM secure access
- Vending machine networking
- Digital store management
MOVE vs Traditional IoT SIM Comparison
Differentiated Advantages of Tata Communications MOVE
Competitive Advantages
- Truly Global: Global IoT connectivity covering 200+ countries and 600+ networks, unmatched by competitors
- Virtual eSIM Innovation: MOVE vSIM technology requires no device-embedded eSIM hardware, reducing the cost and complexity of IoT devices
- Fiber Network Advantage: Own global fiber network ensures backbone transmission quality and security
- Connected Car Expertise: Connectivity service provider for major global automotive brands, with extensive experience
- Tata Group Endorsement: Leverages Tata Group's ecosystem resources across technology, automotive (Tata Motors), steel, and other industries
- Compliance Support: Professional multi-country data compliance (GDPR, PDPA, etc.) and localized support
Development Strategy
5G IoT Expansion
Extend MOVE platform capabilities to 5G network slicing and edge computing through cooperation with global 5G operators
Vertical Industry Focus
Focus on global IoT solutions in vertical industries such as automotive, manufacturing, logistics, and retail
Edge Computing Integration
Introduce edge computing capabilities into the IoT platform to reduce global IoT data transmission latency and costs
Security Enhancement
Continuously strengthen IoT security capabilities, providing advanced security services such as device authentication and zero-trust access