iPhone 17 Models Shift to eSIM-Only in These Regions

iPhone 17 Goes eSIM-Only in 12 New Countries, Drops Physical SIM TrayApple has officially expanded its eSIM-only iPhone initiative. The new iPhone 17 series will not include a physical SIM card tray in a dozen countries. This major shift impacts customers in the United States, Canada, Japan, and several Middle Eastern nations. The change is effective immediately with the new model’s launch.According to Apple, this move allows for a larger battery in the devices. The space previously used by the SIM tray is now filled with additional battery cells. This design choice continues the trend started with the iPhone 14 series in the U.S.

List of iPhone 17 eSIM-Only Countries and Regions

Apple confirmed the specific list of affected locations. The iPhone 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max will be eSIM-only in these places. The list includes Bahrain, Canada, and Guam. Japan, Kuwait, and Mexico are also included.Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia are on the list too. The United Arab Emirates and the United States are also affected. The U.S. Virgin Islands round out the dozen locations. Models sold elsewhere still retain the physical nano-SIM tray.

Global Variations and the All-New iPhone Air

This shift is not universal. iPhone 17 models sold in Europe, Australia, and New Zealand keep the SIM tray. Singapore and South Korea also continue to receive models with a physical slot. In a unique exception, iPhones sold in mainland China support nano-SIM cards only.The ultra-thin iPhone Air represents the ultimate expression of this trend. It is an eSIM-only device in every market worldwide. This includes China, confirming Apple’s full commitment to the digital SIM technology.

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Thought you’d like to know

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM is a digital SIM embedded directly into the phone. It allows you to activate a cellular plan without a physical chip. You can switch carriers directly through your device’s settings.

How many eSIMs can an iPhone 17 store?

The iPhone 17 can store at least eight eSIMs simultaneously. This feature is ideal for frequent international travelers. Users can easily switch between different plans and carriers as needed.

What are the benefits of using an eSIM?

eSIMs are more secure if a phone is lost or stolen. They cannot be physically removed by someone. They also eliminate the need to handle tiny, easy-to-lose SIM cards.

Will my current carrier support an eSIM?

Most major carriers around the world now support eSIM technology. It is best to check directly with your service provider for specific compatibility. Support has become widespread since Apple first introduced the feature.

Can I use an eSIM when traveling internationally?

Yes, eSIMs are excellent for international travel. Many services offer regional data plans that can be downloaded instantly. This avoids the hassle of searching for a local SIM vendor upon arrival.