Apple is reportedly pushing forward with a shift toward eSIM-only iPhones globally by requiring retail employees across the European Union to undergo training on eSIM support by September 5, just days ahead of the anticipated iPhone 17 announcement on September 9, 2025.

The training, delivered through Apple’s internal SEED app, applies to both Apple Store staff and authorized resellers—not just in the EU, but potentially in other markets, given SEED’s global reach.

The Rumors: Physical SIM Slots on the Chopping Block

The push for eSIM isn’t entirely new—since 2022’s iPhone 14, U.S. models have been eSIM-only. But now, Apple seems poised to extend this across more markets. Analysts like Ming‑Chi Kuo suggest the ultra‑slim iPhone 17 Air (aka iPhone 17 Slim) may lack a SIM tray entirely due to its thin 5–6 mm design.

Several reports suggest that other models in the iPhone 17 family—iPhone 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max—may also drop physical SIM trays in regions outside the U.S., though China may be an exception due to regulatory resistance to eSIMs.

Why eSIM Makes Sense for Apple

• Design Advantages: Without a SIM tray, Apple can create thinner devices, simplify water-sealing, and free up internal space for larger batteries or other components.
• Enhanced Security: eSIMs cannot be removed from a lost or stolen device, making unauthorized usage less likely.
• User Convenience: Users can store multiple eSIM profiles (Apple supports several on one device), switch carriers faster, and eliminate the hassle of tiny, physical SIM cards.

Apple previously encouraged eSIM adoption in U.S. iPhones for these reasons and now appears set to expand that globally—just as competitors like Google did with the Pixel 10 series.

Potential Challenges and Consumer Concerns

Despite its benefits, eSIM adoption does come with notable downsides:

• Transfer and Recovery Issues: If the device fails or is replaced, moving an eSIM isn’t as straightforward as just swapping the SIM card.
• Limited Support: Not all carriers, especially in some European and Asian markets, fully support eSIM yet, which could frustrate customers and require carrier infrastructure upgrades.

What This Means for You

• If you’re in the EU or similar markets, Apple’s internal training suggests you’re likely to see eSIM-only iPhone 17s—perhaps even across all models.
• China may be a holdout—due to its regulatory stance, Apple might still offer SIM trays there, especially on non‑Air models. Unlike in Europe, where Apple has already started training staff on the iPhone 17’s eSIM-only rollout, China appears less prepared—shop assistants at authorised resellers in Foshan confirmed they have received no such training, highlighting the country’s ongoing uncertainty around eSIM adoption.
• At launch on September 9, we’ll see if Apple confirms the rumored eSIM pivot and how it intends to address the carrier and consumer transition.

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