Apple is scheduled to release the iPhone 17 on September 9, but rumours about eSIMs and the official Apple Clear Case continue to surface. Apple has asked that store staff in the EU take eSIM training, and sources indicate that all iPhone 17 models may be eSIM-only in a number of overseas regions. The move may expand beyond Europe to other global markets. While all iPhone models support eSIM, only the US versions of the iPhone 14 and later devices lack a physical SIM tray slot.
According to the latest MacRumors report, Apple is going to remove the physical SIM card tray from iPhones in 27 EU nations, including France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands, by September 5. Retail employees at Apple Authorised Resellers in the EU must complete a training session on iPhones with eSIM support by September 5.
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Apple’s SEED app provides training information to staff in Apple Stores and Authorised Resellers globally, implying that the eSIM-related course may extend outside the EU. In the United States, iPhone 14 models and newer use digital eSIM technology, while Apple has yet to ditch the SIM card tray in other countries, most likely beginning with the iPhone 17 series.
According to a source, Apple Authorised Resellers in the EU are now required to handle iPhones without physical SIM cards, as current iPhone models are eSIM-only in the United States.
eSIM is a more convenient and secure replacement for traditional SIM cards, allowing for quick deactivation and data transfer. However, it only supports premium smartphones, making it difficult for regular phone users to switch between them. The change is intended to improve the user experience.
