Apple is preparing for its much-anticipated launch event on September 9, where the iPhone 17 lineup will be revealed. Among the hardware and design enhancements, a significant topic of discussion is the potential removal of the physical SIM card slot in favor of eSIM-only models. According to a report by MacRumors, Apple plans to eliminate the SIM tray from all iPhone 17 models sold in the European Union (EU), meaning users in countries like Germany, France, and Spain will exclusively use eSIMs. To facilitate this change, Apple has reportedly instructed its authorized retailers in the EU to receive training on eSIM usage and troubleshooting through its SEED app, a platform commonly utilized by Apple employees and retail partners.
This shift may extend beyond Europe, as the training rollout in other regions has led to speculation that Apple might introduce eSIM-only models in additional countries. In India, iPhones have supported eSIM technology for several years, but Apple has continued to include physical SIM trays for consumer flexibility. This may change with the iPhone 17 series, as rumors suggest that at least one model, the iPhone 17 Air, could completely eliminate the SIM tray in all markets. The Air is anticipated to have a slim design, and removing the slot could allow Apple to save internal space. If these rumors are accurate, the iPhone 17 Air would be the first iPhone in India without a physical SIM slot.
However, there remains hope for users who prefer traditional SIM cards. Leaks regarding the iPhone 17 Pro battery design have revealed two different versions: one standard battery likely for eSIM-only models, and another smaller battery that appears to accommodate a SIM tray. Tipster Majin Bu suggested that the smaller battery variant is designed for select markets, including China and possibly India. If this holds true, Apple could release iPhone 17 models in India with at least one SIM slot, ensuring that the transition to eSIM-only devices is gradual rather than abrupt. For Apple, the move towards eSIMs aligns with a broader drive for convenience and security.
eSIMs do away with the need for handling tiny physical cards, simplify carrier switching, and can be deactivated instantly if a phone is stolen. Nevertheless, the technology has its challenges, as setting up an eSIM can be more complicated than inserting a physical SIM, particularly when switching devices. While Apple has not confirmed any details, the iPhone 17 series appears to be a pivotal point for how users connect to mobile networks. If reports are accurate, India may remain one of the few regions where consumers can still choose between eSIMs and physical SIMs, at least for a bit longer.