End Of SIM Cards? Which Countries Are Getting The eSIM-ONLY iPhone 17?

Apple is expanding its eSIM-only approach with the iPhone 17 series, including the iPhone 17, 17 Pro, 17 Pro Max, and iPhone Air, eliminating the need for physical SIM cards in select markets.

Global eSIM-Only Device: The iPhone Air is Apple's first globally eSIM-only phone, marking a significant shift away from physical SIM cards for all users worldwide.

Countries? The iPhone 17 series will be available in eSIM-only versions in 12 countries: Bahrain, Canada, Guam, Japan, Kuwait, Mexico, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, UAE, the US, and the US Virgin Islands.

In China, Apple has not adopted eSIM for the main iPhone 17 models. These phones will still support nano SIM cards, while the iPhone Air remains eSIM-only globally.

Why eSIM? Apple’s push for eSIM is driven by the desire to optimize internal space, especially in the ultra-thin iPhone Air, which is just 5.64mm thick, allowing for a more streamlined device design.

In eSIM-only regions, users will no longer have the option to use physical SIM cards, making it essential to rely on digital SIM profiles for carrier connections, which may be an adjustment for some.

With more countries and carriers improving eSIM infrastructure, Apple's strategy signals that physical SIM cards may soon become rare, influencing future device designs across the mobile industry.