Apple's upcoming iPhone 17 Air, expected to launch in September 2025, could mark a major shift by eliminating the physical SIM card slot, according to renowned analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.
Rumours suggest that the iPhone 17 Air will be Apple’s thinnest iPhone yet, measuring just 5.5mm at its slimmest point. To achieve this ultra-thin profile, Apple may remove the physical SIM tray, making the device eSIM-only worldwide.
This move follows Apple's gradual eSIM transition, which started in the U.S. with the iPhone 14 series. While eSIM adoption is growing, the complete removal of a physical SIM slot could pose challenges.
One major concern is China, where Apple’s sales have already declined by 10-12%. The country does not actively promote eSIM-only devices, which could impact the iPhone 17 Air’s availability and sales in this crucial market.
Additionally, some users prefer the flexibility of a physical SIM, especially when travelling internationally. Without a SIM tray, switching between carriers or using local prepaid SIMs may become more difficult.
While Apple has yet to confirm these details, the iPhone 17 Air could mark a significant step toward a portless and SIM-free future. However, how well this shift will be received by consumers and global markets remains to be seen.
