Apple to expand eSIM-only Apple iPhones to more regions next year closing the eSIM gap

Apple iPhone 17 to lead global eSIM expansion

While the U.S. has already embraced eSIM-only Apple iPhones since the Apple iPhone 14 series, Apple has not yet implemented the change internationally. However, the upcoming Apple iPhone 17, set for release in September 2024, is expected to mark the start of Apple’s international eSIM expansion.

The report also raised questions about China, where eSIM technology has yet to be approved for smartphones. Without policy changes, Apple might face challenges introducing an eSIM-only Apple iPhone in the Chinese market.

Benefits of eSIM technology

Apple has highlighted eSIM's advantages, including enhanced security—eSIMs cannot be removed from stolen devices—and the ability to manage multiple eSIMs simultaneously. These features eliminate the need for physical SIM cards, which are cumbersome for frequent travelers.

Challenges in global adoption

Despite its benefits, eSIM adoption remains uneven globally. Regions like Europe and Africa face barriers due to regulatory restrictions, outdated infrastructure, and telecom resistance. Many governments favor physical SIMs for easier monitoring, and carriers often resist eSIMs because they facilitate carrier-switching, threatening customer retention.

Additionally, the lack of eSIM-compatible devices in some areas and limited consumer awareness have delayed adoption, particularly in markets where physical SIM cards dominate.

Implications for the global secondary mobile market

The shift to eSIM-only Apple iPhones is likely to impact the global secondary smartphone market. Devices like the Apple iPhone 17 may face usability challenges in regions where eSIMs are not yet popular. As seen with the Apple iPhone 14 in the U.S., the absence of a SIM card tray can make these models less desirable in certain markets, keeping prices higher for physical SIM-compatible versions.

However, Apple's push could accelerate global eSIM adoption. Over time, secondary market Apple iPhones with eSIM-only technology is expected to become more mainstream, providing ample time for regions to close the eSIM gap.