Apple is preparing to unveil the iPhone 17 series on September 9, and alongside expected design updates, speculation is growing that the company may remove the physical SIM card tray from more regions.
According to a report by MacRumors, Apple has asked its authorised retailers in the European Union (EU) to undergo new eSIM training via its SEED app, strongly indicating that the iPhone 17 lineup in Europe will support only eSIMs. This shift would impact 27 EU countries, including Germany, France, and Spain.
While iPhones in India already support eSIM functionality, Apple has so far continued offering a physical SIM slot for users who prefer traditional cards. However, rumours suggest this could change with the launch of the iPhone 17 Air, which is expected to feature an ultra-thin design that may exclude a SIM tray altogether. If true, it would mark the first iPhone in India without a SIM slot.
Leaked battery images of the iPhone 17 Pro further fuelled speculation, showing two different versions — one designed without SIM space for the US, and another smaller unit reportedly for select markets like China. Analysts believe India may receive this latter version, allowing Apple to retain at least one SIM slot in the country.
Advocates of eSIM technology highlight its convenience and security advantages, allowing users to switch carriers without handling physical cards and instantly deactivate connections if the phone is lost or stolen. However, transferring eSIMs between devices remains less seamless compared to physical SIM cards.
As anticipation builds for the September launch, all eyes are on whether Apple will take the bold step of eliminating SIM card trays globally, or continue offering regional variations to accommodate diverse markets.
