The conversation about device control mechanisms, like IMEI registration, keeps changing. Although regulations vary by country, one thing is clear: the demand for device tracking and management within mobile networks is on the rise.
As this unfolds, operators are not just questioning whether they should deploy new solutions; they’re really wondering if their current systems can handle the new requirements. Most of the talks focus on the initial control stage, which includes verifying where a device comes from, checking the validity of its IMEI, and making sure it meets the necessary standards. But that’s only part of the journey. Once a device is allowed onto the network, it still needs to be set up, monitored, and used in various service situations—everything from auto-configuration to tailored offers—and this needs to be reflected in the analytics.
With increasing regulatory pressure, the need for high-quality data is also growing. In reality, operator databases often get bogged down with outdated info, like duplicate IMEIs, old IMEI-IMSI links, and inactive device listings.
At the same time, the system’s workload is ramping up, leading to more events, more checks, and a greater need for real-time responses. In this context, the systems that operators have relied on for years definitely need a fresh look. This also presents a chance to not only adjust them for new demands but to enhance their capabilities as well.
For instance, a core Device Management System (DMS) can take on a bigger role. Instead of just being a platform for device auto-configuration, the DMS can evolve into a comprehensive device management and subscriber analytics system, affecting both the technical side and business operations.
These kinds of projects are a key strength for SC.Soft. The company has a lot of experience with DMS solutions and knows where operators hit roadblocks and which changes can lead to meaningful improvements.
For example, a recent upgrade for one of the CIS operators showed that after enhancing the DMS, system throughput skyrocketed to over ten times its previous capacity (up to around 800 transactions per second), and event delivery to the Data Warehouse became almost instantaneous—device changes were visible right away.
Moreover, integrating with device control systems greatly improved data accuracy; the operator got a better understanding of which devices were active and could easily remove inactive ones. This made analytics simpler and supported event-driven service scenarios.
Such systems are also being increasingly used for network planning (like segmenting devices by technology and frequency bands) and for product-oriented scenarios, such as boosting eSIM adoption based on device capabilities.
In light of the new regulatory and industry demands, the true winners will be those who not only have systems in place but have ones that are genuinely equipped to handle new operating conditions.
