iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max Could Go eSIM-Only Globally, Apple Event on September 9

Highlights

• Apple may eliminate physical SIM slots globally starting with EU markets in the upcoming iPhone 17 series lineup.
• Retail staff training is underway to support eSIM-only devices.
• Apple will unveil four models at its “Awe Dropping” event on September 9, 2025, at Apple Park.

Apple has confirmed that its next big launch event will be on September 9, 2025. The much-awaited iPhone 17 lineup will be unveiled during the event and it is expected to include four models. These models will most likely be the standard iPhone 17, a slimmer and lighter iPhone 17 Air, the premium iPhone 17 Pro and the flagship iPhone 17 Pro Max.

While we have been hearing a lot about this lineup since last year or maybe even before that, rumours are not stopping even when launch is just days away. Here’s what the most recent grapevine reveals.

iPhone 17 To Go eSIM-Only

According to a fresh report from MacRumors, Apple may take a bold step by making the iPhone 17 series eSIM-only in several international markets, eliminating physical SIM card slots. This long-anticipated transition would allow Apple to cut costs in certain areas while further streamlining the iPhone’s design.

Employee Training Signals eSIM Expansion

MacRumors cites sources claiming that Apple has already mandated training for retail employees to handle iPhones with eSIM-only support. The training requirement applies to Apple Authorised Resellers in EU markets including France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands.

Employees must reportedly complete the program by September 5, just four days before Apple’s “Awe Dropping” launch event. The training sessions are said to be provided via Apple’s SEED app.

What is eSIM?

An eSIM is a digital alternative to the traditional SIM card, offering advantages such as better security and instant activation or deactivation. However, the technology still has limitations: support is mostly restricted to premium smartphones, and frequent phone-switchers may find the process less convenient compared to simply swapping a physical SIM.

Apple first removed the physical SIM slot with the iPhone 14 in 2022, but only in the US. Later models continued the trend domestically while retaining dual SIM (physical + eSIM) support in international markets like India. If the iPhone 17 lineup goes fully eSIM-only in more regions, it would mark Apple’s biggest global shift yet.

iPhone 17 Launch Event, Design and Price

Apple CEO Tim Cook has confirmed that the “Awe Dropping” event will take place at Apple Park, Cupertino, on September 9 at 10:30 PM IST, where the entire iPhone 17 lineup will be revealed.

Another major change expected with the iPhone 17 series is its new rear camera design. Reports suggest Apple may drop the familiar vertical triple-lens setup, opting instead for a wide rectangular camera island stretching across the back, a look similar to Google’s Pixel phones.

The new lineup is rumoured to feature an enhanced Dynamic Island, offering smoother animations and more intuitive interactions. Both standard and Pro models are also likely to gain advanced interactive functions and refined visual elements, powered by the iOS 26 platform.

Industry insiders suggest that Apple could raise prices for its premium models. The iPhone 17 Pro may start at around $1,049, while the iPhone 17 Pro Max could begin at $1,249, reflecting higher tariffs and production costs. Meanwhile, the base iPhone 17 is expected to retain its $799 starting price.

FAQs

Q1. What models are expected in the iPhone 17 lineup?

Answer. Apple is set to unveil four models: the standard iPhone 17, a slimmer iPhone 17 Air, the premium iPhone 17 Pro, and the flagship iPhone 17 Pro Max.

Q2. Will the iPhone 17 series support physical SIM cards?

Answer. According to reports, Apple may go eSIM-only globally with the iPhone 17 lineup, removing physical SIM slots in several international markets including the EU.

Q3. What are the major design changes in the iPhone 17 series?

Answer. The iPhone 17 is expected to feature a wide rectangular rear camera island, enhanced Dynamic Island animations, and refined visuals powered by iOS 26.

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