Apple iPhone 17 Series May Go eSIM-Only in Select Countries, Three Years After U.S. Rollout
Apple may launch eSIM-only iPhone 17 models globally, starting with the iPhone 17 Air. Major upgrades include ProMotion displays, 24MP selfie camera, and A19 chip.
Apple iPhone 17 series may bring global eSIM-only models, with the new iPhone 17 Air leading the transition.
Apple is reportedly preparing to expand its eSIM-only strategy beyond the United States with the launch of the upcoming iPhone 17 series. According to analysts, the shift could begin with the all-new iPhone 17 Air, expected to replace the “Plus” model with a thinner, more compact design.
Since 2022, Apple has exclusively sold eSIM-only iPhones in the U.S., starting with the iPhone 14. In other markets, however, physical SIM card trays remained available. Now, three years later, multiple reports suggest that Apple will roll out the eSIM-only approach internationally, beginning with the iPhone 17 lineup.
iPhone 17 Air Leads the Change
Rumors point to the iPhone 17 Air as the first global eSIM-only device. The ultra-thin model is said to eliminate the SIM tray to save internal space and unify Apple’s iPhone hardware design worldwide.
Top analyst Ming-Chi Kuo and a report from The Information highlight the shift, while MacRumors revealed that Apple has already started preparing its retail partners. In fact, Apple Authorized Resellers in the European Union are required to complete training on eSIM-only devices by September 5—just days before Apple’s “Awe Dropping” event.
What to Expect at Apple’s September Event
Apple is set to unveil the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max at its September 9 event. Alongside the iPhone series, the company is also expected to launch the Apple Watch Series 11, Apple Watch Ultra 3, and possibly the third-generation AirPods Pro.
Key rumored upgrades for the iPhone 17 series include:
- ProMotion display with 120Hz refresh rate on all models, including standard and Air variants.
- 24MP front camera across the lineup.
- Pro-exclusive features: A19 Pro chip, up to 12GB RAM, horizontal pill-shaped camera bar, triple 48MP rear sensors on the Pro Max, and 8K video recording capability.
- Biggest-ever iPhone battery: iPhone 17 Pro Max may pack a 5,000 mAh unit for improved battery life.
With the shift to eSIM-only models, Apple is expected to redefine how users adopt mobile connectivity worldwide, pushing carriers and customers further into the digital era.
