Apple Drops Physical SIM for iPhone Air. With smartphones, where Apple leads, others often follow. So, the release of a new iPhone this week – without a traditional SIM card – raises questions about the future of this familiar mobile technology.
The ultimate smartphone battle of the year has arrived: Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro Max versus Google’s Pixel 10 Pro XL. Both flagship models lead their ecosystems, packed with the latest technology, innovative features, and premium price points.
The End of the SIM Tray?
Most phone users are familiar with the tiny plastic SIM card – a chip that must be carefully inserted into your device to connect to a mobile network. But for buyers of the new iPhone Air, that’s now a thing of the past.
The iPhone Air will work only with an eSIM. This digital alternative lets users activate a plan or switch networks without using a tiny tool to eject a physical SIM tray.
Analyst Kester Mann told BBC News that Apple’s move “marks the beginning of the end of the physical SIM card.” But how soon could we see all SIM cards disappear — and what does it mean for users?
What Is a SIM, and What Is an eSIM?
SIM stands for Subscriber Identity Module. It’s the chip that connects your phone to a network, handles your calls and texts, and enables data usage.
In recent years, eSIMs (embedded SIMs) have emerged as a flexible alternative. Many newer smartphones already allow both a traditional SIM and an eSIM.
Now, Apple is taking a bigger leap.
iPhone Air: eSIM-Only, Worldwide
On Tuesday, Apple announced the iPhone Air – the thinnest model yet – would have an eSIM-only design.
It’s the first time an eSIM-only iPhone will be sold globally. Apple began phasing out physical SIMs in the U.S. back in 2022, but this marks a major expansion.
Still, the company isn’t ditching SIM cards entirely. Other new models – like the iPhone 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max – will remain compatible with physical SIMs in most countries, with eSIM-only versions limited to select markets.
Are Other Brands Following?
Yes — but cautiously.
Companies like Samsung and Google are also supporting eSIMs, though most still offer physical SIM options in many regions.
Yet the trend is clear. A forecast by CCS Insight predicts that 1.3 billion smartphones with eSIMs will be in use by the end of 2024. That number could grow to 3.1 billion by 2030.
“In time, expect the SIM tray to disappear altogether,” said Paolo Pescatore, a tech analyst at PP Foresight.
Why Go eSIM?
There are multiple benefits, experts say.
- More internal space: Without a SIM tray, phones can fit larger batteries or other components.
- Environmental gains: No plastic SIM cards means less waste.
- Easier travel: eSIMs make it simpler to switch to local carriers abroad, avoiding surprise roaming bills.
- Convenience: Users can switch networks or plans without visiting a store.
Kester Mann also said eSIMs could shift how people interact with mobile providers. For instance, customers might never need to visit a phone shop again just to change their SIM.
Not Everyone Will Be Ready
Still, change won’t be smooth for all users.
Older people and those less comfortable with digital tech may struggle with eSIMs at first. “The industry must work hard to explain how to use eSIMs,” Mann emphasized.
