Say Goodbye to SIM Cards: Apple’s iPhone 17 Switch Is Here

Apple is preparing for a significant shift in smartphone design by removing physical SIM card trays from its upcoming iPhone 17 models in many countries worldwide.

This move expands on the company's eSIM-only approach, which it initially implemented exclusively in the United States with the iPhone 14 series in 2022.

Retail staff across all 27 European Union countries have undergone mandatory training on eSIM technology to prepare for the launch expected on September 9, 2025. This global rollout highlights Apple's push to phase out physical SIMs and embrace fully digital SIM solutions.

How will Apple’s eSIM-only iPhone change user experience?

The removal of the SIM card tray means users will manage their cellular connections directly through their iPhone’s software. eSIMs offer enhanced security, as they cannot be physically removed from lost or stolen devices.

Furthermore, iPhones can support multiple eSIMs simultaneously, simplifying travel and carrier switching without the hassle of physical SIM cards.

Did you know?
The iPhone 17 Air is rumored to be Apple's thinnest iPhone ever at just 5.5mm thickness, partly enabled by removing the SIM card tray.

What impact does removing physical SIM trays have worldwide?

While eSIMs have been adopted in the United States for three years, this expansion signals an ambitious global shift. It could challenge traditional SIM card use, especially in markets like Europe, where prepaid physical SIMs have been widespread and convenient for travelers. The move may drive broader adoption of eSIM-compatible carriers and services.

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Apple's iPhone 17 leads the global eSIM transition

The ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air model is at the forefront of Apple's eSIM expansion strategy. With a rumored thickness of just 5.5 mm, it would become Apple's thinnest phone ever, achieved in part by eliminating the physical SIM slot.

Other models, including the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and Pro Max, are expected to follow the same design philosophy outside China, where eSIM technology remains unapproved.

Retail staff trained to support eSIM technology ahead of launch

Apple has mandated that all authorized retail employees in the EU complete eSIM technical training via its SEED app before September 5, just days before the anticipated product launch.

This preparation ensures that staff can assist customers in adapting to the new eSIM-only devices, supporting activations, carrier switching, and troubleshooting.

This September's event may also unveil the new Apple Watch Series 11 and Apple Watch Ultra 3, reinforcing Apple's trend toward tighter integration and modernized hardware.

With the removal of physical SIM trays, Apple is steering the smartphone industry toward a fully digital future where users will rely exclusively on embedded SIM technology.