Apple’s eSIM-Only Foldable iPhone Could Face Major Hurdles in China

Apple’s first foldable iPhone will likely remove the physical SIM card slot. This news comes from a prominent leaker in China. The device is expected to launch in late 2026 or early 2027.

The move to eSIM-only is driven by internal space constraints. This design choice poses a significant challenge in the crucial Chinese market. Chinese consumers heavily prefer physical SIM cards for flexibility.

Design and Technical Drivers Behind the Decision

The rumored “iPhone Fold” features a book-style design. It reportedly has a 5.5-inch outer display. The inner screen unfolds to roughly 7.8 inches, similar to an iPad mini.

Internal volume is extremely limited. According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the device is a design achievement. He compared its thinness to two titanium iPhone Airs placed side by side.

Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo and leaker Instant Digital both support the eSIM-only claim. The decision follows Apple’s earlier push with the iPhone Air. That model also removed the physical SIM tray to save space.

Why the Chinese Market Presents a Unique Problem

China’s mobile market operates differently. Consumers there value quick SIM swaps and dual-SIM capabilities. The fast-paced resale and device-trial culture relies on physical cards.

eSIM activation in mainland China is not seamless. It often requires a visit to a carrier store. This creates friction for users accustomed to instant, self-service swaps.

Apple depends on partnerships with China Mobile, China Telecom, and China Unicom. The iPhone Air supports two active eSIMs in China. Its slower sales, however, highlight consumer resistance to this change.

The foldable iPhone is rumored to be a premium product. Its price could range from $2,000 to $2,500. Adding a usability barrier in a key market is a substantial risk for Apple.

The success of Apple’s foldable iPhone may hinge on solving the eSIM adoption gap. The company must convince Chinese carriers and consumers to embrace this digital shift for its flagship device.

Info at your fingertips

Why would Apple make a foldable iPhone eSIM-only?

Internal space is the primary reason. A foldable device has a very compact internal structure. Removing the physical SIM tray allows for more efficient use of that limited volume.

How will this affect global sales?

Sales in regions with mature eSIM support may be unaffected. Markets like China, where physical SIMs dominate, could see significant consumer hesitation. This may impact overall adoption rates.

Are there alternatives for Chinese buyers?

Buyers would need to activate an eSIM through a carrier store. The iPhone Air model already uses this process. It is less convenient than the traditional SIM card swap most users prefer.

What is the expected price?

Multiple reports suggest a high price point. The foldable iPhone could cost between $2,000 and $2,500 in the United States. This would make it Apple’s most expensive iPhone ever.

Did the iPhone Air’s performance influence this?

The iPhone Air’s underwhelming sales likely provided a lesson. Its trade-offs, including eSIM-only and reduced battery, were noted by consumers. Apple will need stronger selling points for the foldable.