Apple is set to expand its eSIM-only iPhone offering to the global market by 2025, according to a report from The Information. The move, which began with the U.S. launch of the iPhone 14 in 2022, will see the elimination of the physical SIM card tray in favour of eSIM technology in the upcoming iPhone 17 series.
eSIM Technology Gains Global Momentum
With the release of the iPhone 14, Apple made a bold decision to remove the SIM card tray from its U.S. models, positioning eSIM as the future of mobile connectivity. eSIMs, or embedded SIMs, offer numerous advantages over traditional physical SIM cards, such as increased security and flexibility. Unlike physical SIM cards, eSIMs cannot be removed from a lost or stolen device, making them more secure. Additionally, users can manage multiple eSIMs on a single device, with iPhones supporting up to eight eSIMs simultaneously.
Apple promoted eSIM technology as a convenient solution for international travellers, eliminating the need to carry or swap physical SIM cards when switching networks abroad. These benefits have contributed to the growing adoption of eSIMs across the industry, prompting Apple to expand its SIM tray-free iPhones beyond the U.S. market.
iPhone 17 Series to Lead the Transition
The global rollout of eSIM-only iPhones is expected to coincide with the launch of the iPhone 17 series in 2025. Apple is reportedly testing prototypes of eSIM-exclusive devices, including a new model, the iPhone 17 Air, which is set to replace the current iPhone 17 Plus. Details on specific markets where these devices will be introduced remain unclear, but the shift signifies Apple’s broader commitment to advancing eSIM technology.
By phasing out the SIM card tray, Apple aims to simplify the design and manufacturing process while encouraging users and mobile network operators to embrace eSIMs. This strategy aligns with the company’s history of adopting cutting-edge technologies, even if it means leaving traditional features behind.
Industry Implications
Apple’s decision to standardise eSIM technology on a global scale could influence the wider smartphone industry. Other manufacturers may follow suit, accelerating the adoption of eSIMs as a universal standard. For network operators, this transition presents both opportunities and challenges. While eSIMs simplify user activation and reduce the reliance on physical infrastructure, providers must invest in ensuring compatibility and seamless integration for their customers.
The shift also raises questions about consumer readiness in regions where eSIM adoption has lagged. Despite its advantages, eSIM technology requires users to rely on digital processes for managing their network connections, which may pose a barrier for some. As Apple leads this transition, it remains to be seen how quickly the global market will adapt to this change.
A Step Towards the Future
Apple’s embrace of eSIM technology reflects its broader vision of streamlining device design and enhancing user convenience. By removing the SIM card tray, the company not only reduces components but also underscores its commitment to digital-first solutions. The global expansion of eSIM-only iPhones in 2025 is a significant step in this direction, with potential ripple effects across the mobile industry.
As the iPhone 17 series ushers in a new era of connectivity, Apple’s decision to eliminate the SIM card tray may mark the beginning of the end for physical SIM cards. For users and industry players alike, this transition signals the next phase of mobile innovation.
