1NCE

What makes 1NCE different

1NCE disrupts the traditional IoT connectivity model by replacing complex, usage-based metering with a “Lifetime Flat” subscription. Unlike hyperscalers that charge per MB or per connection, 1NCE offers a single, predictable price that covers data, SMS, and management features for up to 10 years. This approach eliminates bill shock and simplifies budgeting for device fleets of any size.

The provider aggregates connectivity from Tier-1 global operators, allowing developers to connect devices in over 200 countries without negotiating individual contracts with local carriers. By abstracting the underlying network complexity, 1NCE enables developers to focus on application logic rather than roaming agreements and SIM provisioning logistics.

Their hardware strategy includes ruggedized industrial SIMs and chips with eUICC capabilities, supporting the “Freedom to Switch” feature. This allows devices to change operators remotely if needed, ensuring long-term reliability and resilience against network sunsets (such as 2G/3G decommissioning) without physical SIM swaps.

Pricing model

1NCE uses a strict subscription model based on their IoT Lifetime Flat. The cost is a one-time payment that covers connectivity for a decade.

• IoT SIM Card Business: $1 (one-time hardware cost) + Lifetime Flat subscription.
• IoT SIM Card Industrial (eUICC): $2 (one-time hardware cost) + Lifetime Flat subscription.
• IoT SIM Chip Industrial (eUICC): $2.50 (one-time hardware cost) + Lifetime Flat subscription.

The “Lifetime Flat” subscription price is listed as $14 per device. This fee includes data allowance, APN configuration, OpenVPN access, and SMS capabilities. This model stands out against typical cloud pricing by offering extreme cost predictability for low-bandwidth IoT devices, where data usage is sporadic and hard to meter accurately with traditional pay-per-use models.

When it fits

• Long-lived IoT deployments: Devices expected to operate for 5-10 years where billing complexity is a burden.
• Global scale: Products deployed across multiple countries requiring seamless roaming without local carrier contracts.
• Low-bandwidth applications: GPS trackers, sensors, and meters that send small data packets intermittently.
• Budget predictability: Startups or enterprises needing fixed OPEX for connectivity rather than variable usage costs.

When it doesn’t

• High-bandwidth video streaming: The flat rate is designed for low-data IoT, not heavy media transfers.
• Short-term projects: If a device will only be active for a few months, the upfront lifetime cost may not be cost-effective compared to pay-as-you-go.

Inclusion criteria

1NCE meets all 3 inclusion criteria:

1. Transparent pricing: The $14 Lifetime Flat and SIM costs are clearly published on their website.
2. Self-service signup: Users can order SIMs and manage subscriptions via the 1NCE Shop and portal.
3. Public SLA/Status: They provide service level agreements and network status information through their developer hub and support channels.