New iPhone 17 Air Leak: Is Apple Killing the SIM Card Slot for Good?

You may have heard about the rumors about the upcoming iPhone 17 Series Air leaks happening in March. It is reportedly to be so impossibly thin (about 5.5mm) that it may not even have room for a physical SIM card slot. That’s right, say goodbye to the old ways of connection and embrace the new technology of eSIM. This is an unpredictable move but does offer wireless charging and cloud-enabled data-syncing.

Additionally, while you’re at it, tag along the eSIM bandwagon with the iPhone 17 Air, and don’t forget to protect your shiny new gadget. Not only the iPhone 17 Air but the new iPad models released in March have switched to the eSIM technology. Also, find some awesome protective accessories for the iPad A16 and iPad Air 2025 series through this link as well.

Part 1. Why Does the iPhone 17 Air Kill the SIM Card?

According to a Bloomberg report, Apple plans to make the 17 Air series so thin that it goes beyond the fort-free era. Why are they so obsessed with making their smartphone slimmer and slimmer? Clearly, it's not only about aesthetics but functionality as well. With the rise of eSIM technology, you yourself want that as it offers precious space, resistance, and global compatibility. What more would you wish for?

What Does This Mean for Users?

For users, it opens an array of limitless opportunities and advanced features, like a 6.9-inch LTPO OLED display, ProMotion adaptive refresh rate technology, and more. With its silicon-carbon battery technology, users can get more advantages out of it. All in all, the iPhone 17 series is looking to shape the future of smartphones.

Part 2. eSIM vs. SIM: What's the Difference?

As technology advances, why should Apple stop as it can produce something like a phone with no SIM card slot. If you are still into the normal SIM, let’s break down these two options and learn which one is more convenient:

Part 3. Is It Better to Use eSIM or Normal SIM?

The iPhone 17 series intends to challenge the whole technical world with its SIM less mobile design. Both eSIM and physical SIM cards have their strengths and weaknesses, but which is the best?

Which is Right for You?

If you're someone who values convenience, durability, and cutting-edge tech, eSIM is the way to go. But if you prefer simplicity, universal compatibility, and the flexibility of swapping SIM cards, you might want to stick with physical SIMs.

Choose eSIM If You:

● Want a sleeker and more durable phone with better water and dust resistance.

● Tech-savvy and like to embrace a slightly more complex setup process.

● Value convenience and hate dealing with tiny SIM cards.

Choose SIM If You:

● Frequently switch phones and want flexibility.

● Prefer a simple and familiar setup process.

● Travel where local SIM cards are easier to find than eSIM plans.

Part 4. Does Your Phone Support eSIM?

In case you’re wondering about your iPhone 17 series supporting eSIM, it depends on the compatibility. Many 2018 models support this technology, but it depends on the location and carrier of your phone. Just remember, Apple released its first eSIM-compatible iPhone in its iPhone XS series in 2018. So, you're in luck, as it's most likely to support it.

How to Check if your Phone Supports eSIM?

Now, how do you check if your phone supports eSIM? Let’s dive into the comprehensive set of steps given below and learn how to check that:

Instructions. Open your iPhone “Settings” and press the “Cellular” option to proceed. Now, under the “eSIM” section, tap the “Add eSIM” choice to reveal a bottom-up menu. From the “Set Up Cellular” menu, select any one of the options: “Use QR Code” or “Transfer from Nearby iPhone.”

iPhone Device Compatibility with eSIM

Before you go on purchasing an eSIM, confirm whether your device is compatible or not. Consider going through the following comprehensive stepwise guide on how to check if your phone supports eSIM:

Step 1. Access the iPhone’s “Settings” app, tap the “General” option, and press the “About” choice to proceed. From here, check the two IMEIs under the “Available SIMS” section. If the IMEI number is a 15-digit code, then it’s compatible.

Step 2. On the same "General" screen, hit the "About" option and tap on your "Model Number" until it changes to the "AXXXX" combination. Ensure the number is not from the China region if you intend to use the eSIM.