Orange is the first mobile operator in the UK to provide the Super SIM to its customers. The Super SIM is a 128 MB flash memory SIM card that has been produced by Sagem Orga.

It comes pre-loaded with software from SNAPin, SelfServiec Configure and various content that will turn the customer's phone into an Orange Signature handset. Upon activation, all the necessary network settings, the Orange Homescreen, Packet Video Player, F-Secure anti-virus and other Orange branded content will be installed through the SNAPin SelfService Configure software.

Customers will be able to transfer and store files on the Super SIM just like they would on a memory card or on the phone's internal memory. The SIM card can be accessed from a PC by using a USB connection and users will also be able to access the content on the SIM card by inserting it in another compatible device, which enables the transfer of content between devices.

While the Super SIM does provide 128MB worth of storage space, it's a nice addition to the phone's internal memory, but while most users would rather get 1 or 2 GB memory cards for their compatible phones, the Super SIM won't represent a replacement for a memory card, but more of an add-on.

"At Orange, we are always at the leading edge of innovation to ensure we provide the very best experience for our customers," said Matthew Kirk, Head of Devices for Orange UK. "The Super SIM and SNAPin software will provide our users with great value and ensure that time to market is greatly reduced as customers can have their very own Orange Signature phone as soon as they buy the latest handsets in store."

The SuperSim will be launched with the HTC S310 Windows Mobile powered Smartphone, which will also feature Abaxia Smart Config client, currently under Orange validation. Smart Config will offer a similar configuration experience to SNAPin's Self Service Configure client.