Apple is gearing up for a bold step with its upcoming iPhone 17 lineup, as it plans to expand eSIM-only models to more regions outside the United States.
The company first removed the SIM card tray from U.S. versions of the iPhone 14 in 2022, and now reports suggest this change will spread much more widely with the iPhone 17 series.
According to reports, Apple has instructed Apple Store staff and authorized resellers across all 27 EU countries to undergo mandatory eSIM training by September 5, just days before the iPhone 17 launch event on September 9.
This training is seen as a strong indicator that eSIM-only models will debut across Europe, marking the most extensive expansion of Apple’s SIM-free approach so far.
iPhone 17 Air Launch
The spotlight is on the rumored iPhone 17 Air, Apple’s sleekest and thinnest iPhone to date, measuring just 5.5 mm in thickness.
Industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo notes that the slim design leaves little room for a physical SIM tray, meaning this model will almost certainly ship as eSIM-only worldwide.
If confirmed, this would be the first iPhone model to completely abandon the SIM tray across all regions, regardless of carrier readiness.
Mixed Strategy for Other Models
Although the iPhone 17 Air is expected to fully embrace eSIM, the rest of the lineup may follow a region-dependent approach.
- Europe & North America: eSIM-only models are highly likely, reflecting Apple’s growing confidence in the technology.
- India & China: These markets could still receive physical SIM tray versions, at least initially. China, in particular, has regulatory hurdles around eSIM adoption, and India’s mixed carrier support means Apple may keep offering dual-SIM variants for now.
Leaked hardware schematics even suggest dual production lines: one design with space for a SIM tray and another slimmer, eSIM-only configuration.
Carriers in developing markets will need to accelerate eSIM rollout to keep pace with Apple’s direction, while users in regions already comfortable with digital SIMs may welcome the convenience and extra durability.
