Apple is preparing for a potential shift in its iPhone design, as retail employees in the European Union undergo eSIM-related training. The training program, mandated for Apple Authorized Resellers, fuels speculation that the upcoming iPhone 17 may eliminate the physical SIM card slot in EU models.
The internal training, scheduled to conclude by September 5, precedes the rumored iPhone 17 launch event on September 9. This timing has raised concerns that Apple intends to remove the physical SIM slot from iPhone 17 devices sold within the EU. The United States models have already transitioned to eSIM technology since the iPhone 14 series.
Information regarding the eSIM training is reportedly accessible through Apple’s SEED app. This platform is utilized by employees in both Apple Stores and Authorized Resellers globally. The use of a global training platform suggests that Apple may consider extending the removal of the physical SIM slot beyond the EU market.
Speculation indicates that the iPhone 17 Air, rumored for its exceptionally slim design, might be the first to omit the physical SIM slot. Yet, the removal could extend to the entire iPhone 17 lineup, with potential exceptions for specific markets. These exceptions could include countries such as China.
