iPhone 17 May Ditch Physical SIM card Slot, following US Trend
PARIS – Apple is reportedly planning to remove the physical SIM card tray from future iPhones, perhaps starting with the iPhone 17 series launching later this year, according to sources cited by Macrumors confirming a prior report from The information. This move would extend a policy already in place in the United States since the iPhone 14 (2022), requiring users to utilize eSIM technology.
The shift is driven by streamlining manufacturing and maximizing internal space for components like batteries and camera sensors. Currently, iPhones sold in the US exclusively use eSIMs – digital SIMs embedded in the device - bypassing the need for a physical card. While eSIM adoption has been slower in Europe, particularly in France, Apple appears confident the market is now ready for a full transition.
It remains unclear if all iPhone 17 models will be affected, or if the change will initially apply to the anticipated “iPhone 17 Air,” rumored to be exceptionally thin at 5.5mm. Removing the SIM tray could free up valuable space within the device.
Apple’s decision stems from the cost of maintaining multiple production lines – one with SIM trays and one without – and the physical space occupied by the nano-SIM card. Though, the move could inconvenience consumers as not all mobile operators currently offer eSIM support, though major French carriers Orange, SFR, Bouygues, and Free do. The potential elimination of the physical SIM card slot could pressure other smartphone manufacturers to follow suit, despite potential drawbacks for consumers.
