Apple could be preparing to remove the physical SIM card slot from its upcoming iPhone 17 series in the European Union. The change would follow a similar move made in the US, starting with the iPhone 14.
According to a report[1] citing a source familiar with the matter, Apple Authorized Reseller employees across the EU have been instructed to complete training related to eSIM functionality by September 5. The timing closely precedes the anticipated iPhone 17 launch event on September 9, suggesting that eSIM-only iPhones may be introduced in the European market.
The training material is reportedly available in Apple’s internal SEED app, which is used globally by Apple[2] Stores and resellers. This raises the possibility that Apple might expand the eSIM-only approach beyond the US, potentially applying it worldwide except in regions like China, where eSIM adoption remains limited.
Apple made its initial shift to eSIM-only devices in the iPhone 14 lineup sold in the US. The change eliminated the need for a physical SIM tray, streamlining the device design and simplifying remote activation for carriers.
The rumored iPhone 17 Air, expected to feature an ultra-slim design, has already been associated with the removal of the SIM card slot. However, if current training trends continue, the shift to eSIM could extend to the entire iPhone 17 lineup in the EU.
References
- ^ report (www.macrumors.com)
- ^ Apple Mobiles Price in Pakistan (propakistani.pk)