MOBILE COMMUNICATIONS

TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to wireless communication technology and, more particularly, to a method and apparatus for providing a virtual subscriber identity module (SIM) for mobile communications.

BACKGROUND

[0002] In wireless communication technology, a SIM is an integrated circuit which securely stores network-specific information used to authenticate and identify subscribers on the cellular network. The SIM also stores operator-specific data used to indicate the services the user may access, and the user's private information such as phone book entries and short messages (SMS). The SIM provides a strong authentication token which can be managed securely over the cellular channel, and thus, provides a powerful platform which binds the user subscription, handset and network together. A SIM is held on a removable SIM card, which is equipped in a mobile terminal, such as a smartphone or other telecommunications device, and can be physically transferred between different mobile terminals.

[0003J Sometimes, however, users may want to use another device instead of the mobile terminal that includes their SIM card. For example, a user's mobile terminal may have a dead battery, and the user may not have the mobile terminal charger. As another example, the user's mobile terminal may be suffering from severe interference, and thus, the user may want to switch to a more powerful communication device. In a further example, the user may be driving a vehicle which is equipped with a hands free communication system (HFCS) in a countiy or state where driving while using a mobile temiinal is illegal. Alternatively, the user may not need mobility during a period of time, and may thus, prefer to use a fixed communication device such as an office or home telephone instead of the user's mobile tenninal to save battery energy. BRIEF SUMMARY

[0004J Therefore, to address the needs and deficiencies described above, methods and apparatus are provided according to the example embodiments for providing a virtual SIM for use in a communication network which allows a user to use another device without having to physically or electronically transfer the SIM from the first device to the second device, thereby maintaining the security of the user's SIM information on the SIM memory device such as a SIM card while using the second device.

[0005] In one example, a method is provided which causes SIM information to be stored on a SIM memory device; cause a request for a virtual SIM associated with the SIM information to be issued; receive the virtual SIM that includes virtual SIM information which identifies but is different from the SIM information; and cause the virtual SIM to be transferred to second device. The method may comprise receiving an acknowledgement of virtual SIM acceptance from a base station to which the request for a virtual SIM was issued. The method may involve switching to an idle mode to save battery energy after virtual SIM acceptance. The method may cause a virtual SIM termination message to be issued the network entity to which the request for a virtual SIM was issued to terminate usage of the virtual SIM. The method of this example embodiment may provide that the virtual SIM is transferred to the second device by a device-to-device connection. The virtual SIM may also, but is not required to, be transferred to a network entity, which may include any member of network as described below or other communication network, for transmission to the second device.

[0006] The method of this embodiment may also include second device identification information to be sent with the request for a virtual SIM. This second device information may include any identifying information regarding the second device, including but not limited to, any network interface identification information, internet protocol (IP) address information, location address information, or any other information which could be utilized to identify the second device in a network.

[0007] In another embodiment, a method is provided that includes receiving a virtual subscriber identity module (SIM) request from a first device including a SIM memory device that stores SIM information; causing a virtual SIM including virtual SIM information that is different form the SIM information to be issued; generating a map including information relating to the SIM memory device, the virtual SIM, and second device identification information relating to a second device; causing transfer of the virtual SIM; and, causing a connection to be established with the second device using the virtual SIM. In this embodiment, causing transfer may comprise causing transfer of the virtual SIM to the first device for transmission to a second device by device-to-device technologies. The method may comprise causing the acknowledgement of virtual SIM acceptance to be sent to the first device, or receiving a message from the first device to terminate the usage of virtual SIM. The method may also further comprise terminating the ability of the second device to use the virtual SIM.

[0008] If a proposed device attempts to utilize the virtual SIM, the method may provide for verifying the identity of the proposed device by comparing proposed device information with the second device identification information. This verification may comprise referencing the map including the information relating to the SIM memory device, the virtual SIM, and second device identification information. In this embodiment or in any of the example embodiments, the first device or second device may comprise, without limitation, a smartphone, a hands free communication system, or any other device as defined herein,

[0009] In another embodiment, an apparatus is provided that includes at least one processor; and

[0010] at least one memory including computer program code, with the at least one memory and the computer program code configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to cause subscriber identity module (SIM) information to be stored on a SIM memory device; cause a request for a virtual SIM associated with the SIM information to be issued; receive the virtual SIM that includes virtual SIM information which identifies but is different from the SIM information; and cause the virtual SIM to be transferred to a second device.

[0011] In this embodiment, the at least one memory and the computer program code may be configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to receive an acknowledgement of virtual SIM acceptance from the second device, or cause the apparatus to switch to an idle mode to save battery energy. The least one memory and the computer program code may be configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to send a virtual SIM termination message to the second device to terminate the usage of the virtual SIM or cause the apparatus to transfer the virtual SIM to the second device by a device-to-device connection. The at least one memory and the computer program code may be further configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to transfer the virtual SIM to a base station for transmission to another device.

[0012] The apparatus according to this embodiment or any example embodiments may comprise, without limitation, a mobile terminal, a hands free communication system, or a smartphone. The second device, or proposed device, according to any of the example embodiments may also comprise, without limitation, a mobile terminal, a hands free communication system, or a Smartphone.

[0013] The apparatus, according to another example embodiment, comprises means causing subscriber identity module (SIM) information to be stored on a SIM memory device; means for causing a request for a virtual SIM associated with the SIM information to be issued; means for receiving the virtual SIM that includes virtual SIM information which identifies but is different from the SIM information; and means for causing the virtual SIM to be transferred to second device. The apparatus in this example embodiment may further comprise means of receiving an acknowledgement of virtual SIM acceptance from a network entity to which the request for a virtual SIM was issued, such as a base station, and means for switching to an idle mode to save battery energy after virtual SIM acceptance. The apparatus may comprise means for a termination message to be issued to the network entity to which the request for a virtual SIM was issued to terminate usage of the virtual SIM, means for causing the virtual SIM to be transferred comprises causing the virtual SIM to be transferred to second device by a device-to-device connection, and means for causing the virtual SIM to be transferred to a network entity for transmission to the second device. The apparatus in this example embodiment may further include means for causing a message including second device identification information to be sent.

[0014] An apparatus according to another example embodiment comprises means for receiving a virtual subscriber identity module (SIM) request from a first device including a SIM memory device, wherein the SIM memory device includes SIM information; means for causing a virtual SIM including virtual SIM information to be issued, wherein the virtual SIM information is different from the SIM information; means for generating a map including information relating to the SIM memory device, the virtual SIM, and second device identification information relating to a second device; means for causing transfer of the virtual SIM; and means for causing a connection to be established with the second device using the virtual SIM. The apparatus further comprises means for causing transfer of the virtual SIM to the first device for transmission to a second device by device-to-device technologies, means for causing the acknowledgement of virtual SIM acceptance to be sent to the first device, means for receiving a message from the first device to terminate the usage of virtual SIM, and means for terminating the ability of the second device to use the virtual SIM. The apparatus in this example embodiment further comprises means for verifying identity of a proposed device by comparing proposed device information with the second device identification information, and means for referencing the map including the information relating to the SIM memory device, the virtual SIM, and second device identification information. This first device or the second device in this example embodiment may comprise, without limitation, a mobile terminal or a hands free communication system.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] Having thus described embodiments of the invention in general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:

[0016] Figure 1 is one example of a communications system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 2 is a block diagram of an apparatus from the perspective of the base station in accordance with an example embodiment of the present invention,

{0018] Figure 3 is a block diagram of an apparatus from the perspective of a terminal in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 4 is a signaling diagram illustrating messages exchanged between the base station, a first device, and a second device in accordance with an example embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 5 is a signaling diagram illustrating messages exchanged between the base station, a first device, and a second device in accordance with another example embodiment of the present invention. [0021] Figure 6 is a flowchart illustrating a method performed in accordance with an example embodiment of the present invention from the perspective of a first device.

[0022] Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating a method performed in accordance with an example embodiment of the present invention from the perspective of a network entity including, without limitation, a base station.

[0023] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating a verification method performed in accordance with an example embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 9 illustrates another example of a communications system according to an embodiment of the present invention that provides for machine type communications.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

]0025] The present invention now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all embodiments of the inventions are shown. Indeed, these inventions may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout.

[0026] As used in this application, a device may include but is not limited to the following: (a) wired and wireless telephones (b) satellite telephones (c) personal communication devices; (d) electronic devices configured to share content in a local area network (LAN); (e) electronic gaming devices including, but not limited to, Nintendo ^® Gameboy ^® devices; (f) electronic music devices including, but not limited to, Apple ^® iPod ^® devices; (g) telecommunications network infrastructure equipment, including but not limited to a base station; (h) dual-mode cellular terminals which utilize a cellular network and a non- cellular network; (i) any type of mobile terminal including without limitation a mobile terminal in a telecommunications network; (j) any machines configured for wireless communications in various applications, including but not limited to, an automobile with wireless communication capabilities, smart homes, smart metering, fleet management, remote healthcare, or access network operation management; or (k) any network entity, network component, or other network member. [0027] The term 'circuitry' refers to all of the following; (a) hardware-only circuit implementations (such as implementations in only analog and/or digital circuitry) and (b) to combinations of circuits and software (and/or firmware), such as (as applicable): (i) to a combination of processor(s) or (ii) to portions of processor(s)/software (including digital signal processor(s)), software, and memory(ies) that work together to cause an apparatus, such as a mobile phone or server, to perform the various functions) and (c) to circuits, such as microprocessor(s) or a portion of microprocessor(s), that require software or firmware for operation, even if the software or firmware is not present.

[0028] This definition of 'circuitry' applies to all uses of this term in this application, including any claims. As a further example, as used in this application, the term "circuitry" would also cover an implementation of merely a processor (or multiple processors) or portion of a processor and its (or their) accompanying software and/or firmware. The term "circuitry" would also cover, for example and if applicable to the particular claim element, a SIM memory device or SIM card, a baseband integrated circuit or applications processor integrated circuit for a mobile phone or similar integrated circuit in a server, a cellular network device, or other network device.

[0029] In accordance with an example embodiment of the present invention, a communication system is provided in which a network entity, such as a base station, such as an access point, a Node B, an evolved Node B (eNB) or the like, may communicate with a plurality of devices, such as a first device 14 and a second device 16. These devices 14 and

16 may include type of device as defined herein, or any other type of device capable of receiving a virtual SIM pursuant to the various embodiments of this invention. While only first device 14 and second device 16 are illustrated, additional devices may be included in the communication system.

[0030] First device 14 and second device 16 may communicate with each other via device-to-device communication technology in a license exempt band, such as within the Industrial, Scientific and Medical (ISM) band or the television white space (TVWS) band. While a communications system that provides coordination of device-to-device communication between devices 14 and 16 may be configured in various different manners, Figure 1 illustrates a generic system diagram in which either device 14 or 16 may communicate in a licensed spectrum with the network 10, such as by the exchange of cellular signals as shown in the solid lightning bolts in Figure 1 , and in a license exempt band, such as, but not limited to, the ISM band, with another telecommunications device as shown by the dashed lightning bolts.

[0031] First device 14 and second device 16 may each be capable of communication, such as cellular communication, in the licensed band with a network 10 (e.g., a core network) and more directly with one another in a license exempt band. While the network may be configured in accordance with Long Term Evolution (LTE), the network may employ other mobile access mechanisms such as wideband code division multiple access (W-CDMA), CD A2000, global system for mobile communications (GSM), general packet radio service (GPRS), LTE- Advanced (LTE-A) and/or the like.

[0032] The network 10 may include a collection of various different nodes, network entities, members, devices or functions that may be in communication with each other via corresponding wired and/or wireless interfaces. As such, the illustration of Figure 1 should be understood to be an example of a broad view of certain elements of the system and not an all inclusive or detailed view of the system or the network. One or more devices such as the devices 14 and 16 may be in communication with each other or other devices via the network. In some cases, each of the communication terminals may include an antenna or antennas for transmitting signals to and for receiving signals from a base station, such as an access point, node B, eNB or the like (hereinafter generically referenced as a base station 12). The base station could be, for example, part of one or more cellular or mobile networks or public land mobile networks (PLMNs). In turn, other devices such as processing devices (e.g., personal computers, server computers or the like) may be coupled to the terminals via the network,

[0033] In some example embodiments, the first device 14 and second device 16 may be, for example, a number of devices which may have a SIM memory device, including without limitation, a mobile telephone, portable digital assistant (PDA), pager, laptop computer, or any of numerous other hand held or portable communication devices, computation devices, content generation devices, content consumption devices, or combinations thereof. Alternatively, the first device and second device may be Fixed communication devices that are not configured to be mobile or portable. In either instance, the first device 14 and second device 16 may include one or more processors that may define processing circuitry either alone or in combination with one or more memories, such as a SIM memory device. The processing circuitry may utilize instructions stored in the memory to cause the terminals to operate in a particular way or execute specific functionality when the instructions are executed by the one or more processors. The telecommunications devices may also include communication circuitry and corresponding hardware/software to enable communication with other devices and/or the network 10.

[0034] The base station 12 may be embodied as or otherwise include an apparatus 20 as generically represented by the block diagram of Figure 2. In this regard, the apparatus may be configured to communicate with the sets of first and second telecommunications devices 14, 16 to selectively establish wireless communications, such as cellular communications, there between. While one embodiment of the apparatus is illustrated and described below, it should be noted that the components, devices or elements described below may not be mandatory and thus some may be omitted in certain embodiments. Additionally, some embodiments may include further or different components, devices or elements beyond those shown and described herein.

[0035] As shown in Figure 2, the apparatus 20 may include or otherwise be in communication with processing circuitry 22 that is configurable to perform actions in accordance with example embodiments described herein. The processing circuitry 22 may be configured to perform data processing, application execution and/or other processing and management services according to an example embodiment of the present invention. In some embodiments, the apparatus or the processing circuitry 22 may be embodied as a chip or chip set. In other words, the apparatus or the processing circuitry 22 may comprise one or more physical packages (e.g., chips) including materials, components and/or wires on a structural assembly (e.g., a baseboard). The structural assembly may provide physical strength, conservation of size, and/or limitation of electrical interaction for component circuitry included thereon. The apparatus or the processing circuitry 22 may therefore, in some cases, be configured to implement an embodiment of the present invention on a single chip or as a single "system on a chip." As such, in some cases, a chip or chipset may constitute means for performing one or more operations for providing the functionalities described herein.

[0036] In an example embodiment, the processing circuitry 22 may include a processor

24 and memory 26 that may be in communication with or otherwise control a device interface 28. As such, the processing circuitry 22 may be embodied as a circuit chip (e.g., an integrated circuit chip) configured (e.g., with hardware, software or a combination of hardware and software) to perfonn operations described herein in relation to the base station 12.

[0037] The device interface 28 may include one or more interface mechanisms for enabling communication with other devices, such as the first and second devices 14, 16, and/or networks, such as network 10. In some cases, the device interface may be any means such as a device or circuitry embodied in either hardware, or a combination of hardware and software that is configured to receive and/or transmit data from/to a network and/or any other device or module in communication with the processing circuitry 22. In this regard, the device interface may include, for example, an antenna (or multiple antennas) and supporting hardware and/or software for enabling communications with a wireless communication network and/or a communication modem, such as a cellular modem, for enabling communications with the sets of first and second terminals.

[0038] In an example embodiment, the memory 26 may include one or more non- transitory memory devices such as, for example, volatile and/or non-volatile memory that may be either fixed or removable. The memory may be configured to store information, data, applications, instructions or the like for enabling the apparatus 20 to carry out various functions in accordance with example embodiments of the present invention. For example, the memory could be configured to buffer input data for processing by the processor 24.

Additionally or alternatively, the memory could be configured to store instructions for execution by the processor. As yet another alternative, the memory may include one of a plurality of databases that may store a variety of files, contents or data sets. Among the contents of the memory, applications may be stored for execution by the processor in order to carry out the functionality associated with each respective application. In some cases, the memory may be in communication with the processor via a bus for passing information among components of the apparatus.

[0039] The processor 24 may be embodied in a number of different ways. For example, the processor may be embodied as various processing means such as one or more of a microprocessor or other processing element, a coprocessor, a controller or various other computing or processing devices including integrated circuits such as, for example, an ASIC (application specific integrated circuit), an FPGA (field programmable gate array), or the like. In an example embodiment, the processor may be configured to execute instructions stored in the memory 26 or otherwise accessible to the processor. As such, whether configured by hardware or by a combination of hardware and software, the processor may represent an entity (e.g., physically embodied in circuitry - in the form of processing circuitry 22) capable of performing operations according to embodiments of the present invention while configured accordingly. Thus, for example, when the processor is embodied as an ASIC, FPGA or the like, the processor may be specifically configured hardware for conducting the operations described herein. Alternatively, as another example, when the processor is embodied as an executor of software instructions, the instructions may specifically configure the processor to perform the operations described herein.

[0040) In one embodiment, the first and/or second devices 14, 16 may be embodied as or otherwise include an apparatus 30 as genetically represented by the block diagram of Figure 3. In this regard, the apparatus may be configured to provide for communications in the licensed spectrum, such as cellular communications, with the base station 12 or another terminal and device-to-device communications in the license exempt band, such as non- cellular communications, with another terminal. While the apparatus may be employed, for example, by a device, it should be noted that the components, devices or elements described below may not be mandatory and thus some may be omitted in certain embodiments. Additionally, some embodiments may include further or different components, devices or elements beyond those shown and described herein.

[0041] As shown in Figure 3, the apparatus 30 may include or otherwise be in communication with processing circuitry 32 that is configurable to perform actions in accordance with example embodiments described herein. The processing circuitry 32 may be configured to perform data processing, application execution and/or other processing and management services according to an example embodiment of the present invention. In some embodiments, the apparatus or the processing circuitry 32 may be embodied as a chip or chip set. In other words, the apparatus or the processing circuitry 32 may comprise one or more physical packages (e.g., chips) including materials, components and/or wires on a structural assembly (e.g., a baseboard). The structural assembly may provide physical strength, conservation of size, and/or limitation of electrical interaction for component circuitry included thereon. The apparatus or the processing circuitry 32 may therefore, in some cases, be configured to implement an embodiment of the present invention on a single chip or as a single "system on a chip." As such, in some cases, a chip or chipset may constitute means for performing one or more operations for providing the functionalities described herein.

[0042] In an example embodiment, the processing circuitry 32 may include a processor 34 and memory 36 that may be in communication with or otherwise control a device interface 38 and, in some cases, a user interface 44. As such, the processing circuitry 32 may be embodied as a circuit chip (e.g., an integrated circuit chip) configured (e.g., with hardware, software or a combination of hardware and software) to perform operations described herein.

However, in some embodiments taken in the context of some telecommunications devices such as a mobile terminal, the processing circuitry 32 may be embodied as a portion of a mobile computing device or other device. The processing circuitry 32 may also include a SIM memory device 35, such as a SIM card or other integrated circuit that securely stores a service-subscriber key (IMSI) used to identify a subscriber on telecommunications devices such as, without limitation, mobile terminals.

[0043] The user interface 44 (if implemented) may be in communication with the processing circuitry 32 to receive an indication of a user input at the user interface and/or to provide an audible, visual, mechanical or other output to the user. As such, the user interface may include, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, a joystick, a display, a touch screen, a microphone, a speaker, and/or other input/output mechanisms.

[0044] The device interface 38 may include one or more interface mechanisms for enabling communication with other devices and/or networks. In some cases, the device interface may be any means such as a device or circuitry embodied in either hardware, or a combination of hardware and software that is configured to receive and/or transmit data from/to a network and/or any other device or module in communication with the processing circuitry 32. In this regard, the device interface may include, for example, an antenna (or multiple antennas) and supporting hardware and/or software for enabling communications with a wireless communication network and/or a communication modem or other hardware/software for supporting communication via cable, digital subscriber line (DSL), universal serial bus (USB), Ethernet or other methods. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the device interface includes a cellular modem 40 for supporting communications in the licensed spectrum, such as communications with the base station 12, and a non-cellular modem 42 for supporting communications in the license exempt band, such as non-cellular communications, e.g., communications in the ISM band or the TVWS band, with other terminals.

[0045] In an example embodiment, the memory 36 may include one or more non- transitory memory devices such as, for example, volatile and/or non-volatile memory that may be either fixed or removable. The memory may be configured to store information, data, applications, instructions or the like for enabling the apparatus 30 to carry out various functions in accordance with example embodiments of the present invention. For example, the memory could be configured to buffer input data for processing by the processor 34. Additionally or alternatively, the memory could be configured to store instructions for execution by the processor. As yet another alternative, the memory may include one of a plurality of databases that may store a variety of files, contents or data sets. Among the contents of the memory, applications may be stored for execution by the processor in order to carry out the functionality associated with each respective application. In some cases, the memory may be in communication with the processor via a bus for passing information among components of the apparatus.

[0046] The processor 34 may be embodied in a number of different ways. For example, the processor may be embodied as various processing means such as one or more of a microprocessor or other processing element, a coprocessor, a controller or various other computing or processing devices including integrated circuits such as, for example, an ASIC, an FPGA or the like. In an example embodiment, the processor may be configured to execute instructions stored in the memory 36 or otherwise accessible to the processor. As such, whether configured by hardware or by a combination of hardware and software, the processor may represent an entity (e.g., physically embodied in circuitry - in the form of processing circuitry 32) capable of performing operations according to embodiments of the present invention while configured accordingly. Thus, for example, when the processor is embodied as an ASIC, FPGA or the like, the processor may be specifically configured hardware for conducting the operations described herein. Alternatively, as another example, when the processor is embodied as an executor of software instructions, the instructions may specifically configure the processor to perform the operations described herein.

10047] Figures 4 and 5 are signaling diagrams illustrating messages exchanged between a base station 12, a first device 14, and a second device 16 in accordance with two example embodiments of the present invention. The base station 12 is shown in Figures 4 and 5 for purposes of illustration only, as any network entity or device may serve in the role described for the base station 12 in other example embodiments.

[00481 In Figure 4, the base station 12 sends the virtual SIM to the first device 1 after receipt of a request for a virtual SIM or virtual SIM request. The virtual SIM request may be provided by the first device and may include second device identification information, including without limitation, address information, device information such as the type of device, or location information. Once the first device 14 receives the virtual SIM, the first device 14 sends the virtual SIM to the second device 16 via a communication protocol including without limitation device-to-device technology. The second device 16 may send an acknowledgement that the virtual SIM has been received by sending a virtual SIM acceptance message, which may include an AC message or any type of virtual SIM acceptance message that informs the base station 12 that the virtual SIM was successfully received. In another embodiment, the first device 14 may receive the virtual SIM acceptance message from the second device 16 via a communication path, including a device-to-device connection.

J0049] After the base station 12 receives the virtual SIM acceptance message, the first device 14 may, but is not required to, enter an idle mode to save battery energy. The idle mode may involve turning off or entering a stand-by mode. Meanwhile, regardless of whether the first device has entered idle mode or not, the second device 16 may utilize the virtual SIM for communication, including uplink and downlink communications with the base station 12. These communications may continue until the first device 1 (or the second device 16) send the base station 12 a termination message. This termination message may also be sent directly to the first device 14 from the second device 16 or the base station 12.

[0050] Figure 5 also illustrates the messages exchanged between the base station 12, first device 14, and second device 16 for illustration purposes only. As with Figure 4, base station

12 is referenced, however, any device or network entity may serve the role described for the base station. In Figure 5, that after the first device 14 requests the virtual SIM from base station 12, the virtual SIM is communicated directly to the second device 16 from the base station 12. In this example embodiment, the first device 14 does not communicate the virtual SIM to the second device 16 via device-to-device technologies.

[0051] While example embodiments of the present invention have been described above in conjunction with Figures 1-5, flowcharts of the operations performed from the perspective of the base station 12, first device 14 and second device 16 are now provided with reference to Figures 6, 7, and 8 respectively. It will be understood that each block of the flowcharts, and combinations of blocks in the flowcharts, may be implemented by various means, such as hardware, firmware, processor, circuitry, and/or other device associated with execution of software including one or more computer program instructions. For example, one or more of the procedures shown by the flowcharts may be embodied by computer program instructions. In this regard, the computer program instructions which embody the procedures depicted by the flowcharts may be stored by a memory device of an apparatus employing an embodiment of the present invention and executed by a processor in the apparatus.

[0052] As will be appreciated, any such computer program instructions may be loaded onto a computer or other programmable apparatus (e.g., hardware) to produce a machine, such that the resulting computer or other programmable apparatus provides for implementation of the functions specified in the flowchart block(s), These computer program instructions may also be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable storage memory that may direct a computer or other programmable apparatus to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable storage memory produce an article of manufacture, the execution of which implements the function specified in the flowchart block(s). The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable apparatus to cause a series of operations to be performed on the computer or other programmable apparatus to produce a computer-implemented process such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide operations for implementing the functions specified in the flowchart blocks.

[0053] Accordingly, blocks of the flowcharts support combinations of means for performing the specified functions and combinations of operations for performing the specified functions. It will also be understood that one or more blocks of the flowcharts, and combinations of blocks in the flowcharts, can be implemented by special-purpose hardware- based computer systems which perform the specified functions, or combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions.

[0054] In one example of the method of the present invention, from the perspective of a first device 14, an apparatus comprises means to cause subscriber identity module (SIM) information to be stored on a SIM memory device. See block 60. While the storage of SIM information on a SIM memory device may comprise writing SIM information in the SIM memory device, the storage of SIM information may also include storage of the SIM memory device including the SIM information, such as be inserting the SIM memory device into the first device 14. The first device may comprise any device as described above, including without limitation, a mobile terminal in a telecommunications network or any other network entity. This SIM memory device may comprise any processing circuitry or memory configured to, or used to, identify a device on a network, SIM information may comprise, without limitation, any identifying information for the first device, such as a subscriber name, subscriber address information, device address information, or other information or content.

The apparatus in this example embodiment comprises means to cause a request for a virtual SIM associated with the SIM information to issue. See block 62. This virtual SIM may comprise virtual SIM information with the virtual SIM information being different from the SIM information. The virtual SIM information could comprise a certificated authentication of the SIM information or SIM memory device. Further, the request for a virtual SIM may comprise second device identification information, including without limitation, the IP address or location information for the second device. The information included in the virtual SIM may also be, without limitation, an electronic certification that can identify the SIM authentication. The virtual SIM request may include the identification information of second device, which may comprise, without limitation, international mobile equipment infomiation (IMEI).

[0055] After the request for a virtual SIM has issued, the apparatus comprises means to provide for the receipt of the virtual SIM. In one example embodiment as shown in this Figure 6, the first device may receive the virtual SIM. The first device may then transfer the virtual SIM to the second device 16 via a communication method such as device-to-device technologies, [0056] In another example embodiment described in Figure 7, the base station could receive the virtual SIM instead of the first device 14. In this embodiment, from the perspective of a network entity, the apparatus comprises means to receive a SIM request from a first device that includes a SIM memory device. See block 70. A network entity may comprise any component, device, or other member in any type of network, including without limitation a telecommunications network. The first device may comprise any device as previously defined.

[0057] Once a SIM request has been received from the first device 14, the apparatus comprises means to provide that a virtual SIM is issued, which may involve (without limitation) communicating the virtual SIM from either the base station to the second device 16, or communicating the virtual SIM from the base station to the first device for transmission to the second device. See block 72. This communication may occur over a secure communication path, with either a wired or wireless connection.

[0058] With the issuance of the virtual SIM, the apparatus comprises means for the creation of a map which is utilized to store information which can be used to verify any proposed device attempting to use the virtual SIM. See block 74. This map may include any information relevant to such verification, including without limitation, information identifying the SIM memory device in the first device 14, information identifying the virtual SIM, or information identifying the second device 16 (second device identification information). The information identifying the virtual SIM may comprise the virtual SIM itself, or any memory location information identifying where the virtual SIM is stored. The second device identification information may include any information which could be used to identify the second device on a network, including without limitation, an IP address, network interface identification, host interface identification, or any other identification means. The map physically may be stored in any programming language in any memory accessible to the network 10, including without limitation, memory 26 of base station 20.

[0059] The apparatus further comprises means for transferring the virtual SIM after the generation of the map. See block 76. The virtual SIM can be transferred via any wired or wireless communication protocol, and may be transferred to either the second device or the first device for transmission to the second device via device-to-device technologies. Once the virtual SIM is transferred, the method establishes a connection with the second device using the virtual SIM. See block 78. With the connection established, the second device may use the virtual SIM for uplink and downlink communications with the base station. The second device's use of the virtual SIM may be terminated by the base station in response to receipt of a termination request from the first device, wherein the termination may be sent from the First device to the base station, or from the first device to the second device. In another embodiment, the second device may send a termination request to the base station or the first device terminating use of the virtual SIM.

[0060] As illustrated in Figure 8, if a proposed device attempts to use the virtual SIM, the apparatus comprises means to execute a verification process to ensure the proposed device is indeed the second device. A proposed device may comprise any device which contacts the first device, base station, or any other network entity or device attempting to use the virtual SIM. See block 80. This proposed device may comprise the second device, or may comprise an unauthorized device. Once a proposed device attempts to use the virtual SIM, the apparatus comprises means to provide that the proposed device identifying information is compared to the map. See block 82. The proposed device identifying information may include any type of information similarly described for the second device identifying information, including without limitation, an IP address, network interface address, or any other type of location or address information. If the proposed device identifying information does not match the information in the map for the second device (the second device identifying information), then the apparatus comprises means to stop or prevent the proposed device from using the virtual SIM. See block 84. In the event the proposed device identifying information does match the second device identifying information in the map, then the proposed device is deemed to be the second device, and is permitted to use the virtual SIM for any communications, including uplink and downlink communications, or device-to-device communications.

[0061] In various embodiments of the present invention, an apparatus comprises means for transferring the virtual SIM from the first device 14 to the second device 16 via a device- to-device connection. Although device-to-device connections may be established between a variety of different types of first and second devices 14, 16, the first and second devices of one embodiment may be a machine type communication (MTC) gateway 90 and an MTC device 92, each of which are configured to communicate in both the licensed spectrum, such as via respective cellular modems, and in the unlicensed spectrum, such as via respective non-cellular modems, such as WiFi modems. As shown in Figure 9, a system in accordance with this embodiment may include a base station 12 that is in communication with one or more MTC gateways. Each MTC gateway may communicate with a plurality of MTC devices within a capillary network such as via non-cellular communications, e.g., ZigBee,

Bluetooth, or communications in accordance with the IEEE 802.15 standard. The MTC gateway, however, not only can communicate with the MTC devices via local connectivity technologies such as non-cellular communications, but may also communicate with the network 10, such as the base station, via cellular connections. Thus, the MTC gateway device may serve as an agent for the MTC devices within the capillary network to communicate via the network. As such, the MTC gateway device may perform procedures such as authentication, authorization, registration, management and provisioning on behalf of the MTC devices within the respective capillary network.

[0062] In an instance in which at least one of the MTC devices 92 within a capillary network not only may communicate via non-cellular signals, such as via non-cellular modems, but also may communicate with cellular signals, such as via cellular modem, the respective MTC device and the MTC gateway device 90 may be considered a respective pair of first and second terminals 14, 16 and may be configured by the base station 12 to establish device-to-device communications, such as machine-to-machine communications, therebetween. For example, a non-cellular connection via WiFi may be established between the respective MTC device and the MTC gateway for such machine-to-machine communication, while other communications within the capillary network such as between the MTC gateway device and other MTC devices may be conducted via other non-cellular communication channels such as ZigBee. In another example, a cellular connection may be established between the respective MTC device and the MTC gateway for such machine-to- machine communication, while other communications within the capillary network such as between the MTC gateway device and other MTC devices may be conducted via other non- cellular communication channels such as WiFi or ZigBee. As such, the method, apparatus and computer program product of an example embodiment of the present invention may facilitate improvements with respect to machine-to-machine communications. [0063] Many modifications and other embodiments of the inventions set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which these inventions pertain having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the inventions are not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.