Apple is making significant changes to its iPhone lineup, particularly regarding the SIM card tray. Recent reports indicate that the tech giant is set to eliminate the physical SIM card tray from more countries this year, following a trend that began with the iPhone 14 series.
A reliable source has informed MacRumors that retail employees at Apple Authorized Resellers in the European Union are required to complete a training course focused on iPhones with eSIM support by Friday, September 5. This training encompasses 27 countries within the EU, including major markets like France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands.
Apple is expected to unveil the highly anticipated iPhone 17 series on Tuesday, September 9, just four days after this training deadline. The timing suggests that Apple is preparing for a significant shift in how users will connect to mobile networks.
The training materials are accessible through Apple's SEED app, utilized by employees across both Apple Stores and Authorized Resellers globally. This raises the possibility that the eSIM-related training may extend beyond the EU, hinting at broader changes in the future.
In the United States, all models of the iPhone 14 and newer have already transitioned to an eSIM-only format, eliminating the traditional SIM card slot. While Apple has not yet removed the SIM card tray in other international markets, indications are strong that this change will begin with the upcoming iPhone 17 series.
According to reports from The Information, Apple plans to phase out physical SIMs in additional countries next year. However, the report did not specify which countries or iPhone 17 models would be affected. Notably, the ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air is expected to be among the first to lack a SIM card tray, as noted by Apple supply chain analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.
While the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max may also adopt an eSIM-only configuration internationally, certain exceptions could remain, particularly in markets like China.
When the iPhone 14 series debuted in 2022, Apple emphasized the advantages of eSIM technology, highlighting its enhanced security features. Unlike physical SIM cards, eSIMs cannot be removed from a device that is lost or stolen, providing peace of mind for users. Additionally, iPhones can manage up to eight eSIMs simultaneously, which simplifies the process of connecting while traveling, eliminating the need to carry or swap physical SIM cards.
For those interested in transitioning to eSIM, Apple has provided a support document listing carriers worldwide that support eSIM technology. This resource can assist users in understanding their options and making the switch smoothly.
