Apple's upcoming iPhone 17 series is expected to bring a big change for many users around the world. Soon, many iPhone 17 models might not have a physical SIM card slot, meaning people will use just eSIM for mobile connections. Right now, only iPhones sold in the United States come without a physical SIM slot and use eSIM only.
But with the iPhone 17, Apple plans to expand this change to more countries, especially in Europe and other international markets.
To get ready for this, Apple has asked its retail workers in places like France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands to finish special training about eSIM by September 5, just a few days before the new phones launch. This shows that Apple is serious about the switch and wants to help customers know how to use eSIMs more easily.
The iPhone 17 Air model will likely be the first iPhone worldwide to fully remove the physical SIM slot. This model is said to be very thin, about 5.5 millimeters thick, which is why there is no space inside to fit a SIM card tray. Other iPhone 17 models, like the standard, Pro, and Pro Max versions, may also remove the physical SIM in most countries, but some places like China might still get models with SIM card slots.
Using an eSIM means the SIM card is built into the phone digitally. This gives many benefits. For example, it is harder for someone to steal your SIM and misuse your phone because the eSIM can't be physically taken out. Also, with eSIM, you can have more than one mobile plan on your phone and switch between them quickly without needing to swap SIM cards. This is helpful for people who travel or want separate phone lines for work and personal use.
However, eSIM is not perfect for everyone yet. Some countries and networks do not support eSIM fully. Also, people who often change phones may find it a bit tricky at first to move their eSIM from one phone to another. Despite this, Apple expects eSIM to become the new normal, making phones more secure and simpler to use.
The official reveal of the iPhone 17 series will happen on September 9, 2025, at Apple’s event called “Awe Dropping” held in California. Besides new iPhones, Apple will likely announce new Apple Watches, AirPods, and other products.
This shift to eSIM-only phones outside the US is a major step by Apple. It shows their focus on improved security, convenience, and modern phone design. Users worldwide will soon experience a new way to connect their iPhones, with fewer physical parts and more digital flexibility.
This change will not just affect hardware but also how people buy mobile plans and use phones daily. Apple is working closely with phone companies and training its retail staff to make sure everyone can adapt smoothly to this new technology.
In short, the iPhone 17 series is ready to lead the world in moving away from physical SIM cards. This will make iPhones safer and easier to use in many countries, starting with the upcoming models launched this September 2025. Users can look forward to a simpler way of managing mobile service through built-in digital SIM technology called eSIM.
All this means that soon, the tiny physical SIM card, which has been standard for decades, will become history for many iPhone users globally. This is a big change but also a step forward in making smartphones better and more modern for the future.