Apple Rolls Out eSIM-Only iPhone 17 Models in Multiple Countries Including Canada, China, Türkiye

Apple's iPhone 17 series introduces a significant shift toward eSIM technology, with the ultra-thin iPhone Air being eSIM-only globally to allow for a larger battery and slimmer design. While countries like Turkey will still receive physical SIM models for the iPhone 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max, others including the U.S., Canada, Bahrain, Japan, and several Middle Eastern countries will see eSIM-only versions for these models. In China, the transition to eSIM faces regulatory and carrier support challenges, with only China Unicom currently supporting eSIM activation for the iPhone Air, requiring in-person ID verification due to local regulations. The move to eSIM offers benefits such as enhanced security, the ability to manage multiple plans digitally, and improved battery life due to the absence of a SIM tray; however, it may also cause inconvenience in markets where carrier support is limited or where fees are imposed for eSIM transfers. This evolution reflects Apple's broader push to phase out physical SIM cards, though the adoption pace varies globally based on regulatory, infrastructural, and market readiness factors.