The rumor mill now has it that Apple could start offering iPhone models without a SIM card in the box in the second quarter of 2022.
Earlier this week, a Brazilian website stated that Apple’s iPhone 15 might not have a physical SIM card slot in some countries and regions. The change could take place even sooner, as an anonymous tipster has stated that Apple has advised major U.S. carriers to prepare for the launch of eSIM-only smartphones by September 2022. The tipster shared a seemingly legitimate document outlining the timeframe for this initiative, although the document does not specifically mention Apple or the iPhone.
As part of the transition, some U.S. carriers will allegedly start offering select iPhone 13 models without a nano-SIM card in the box in the second quarter of 2022. iPhone 13 models sold at Apple Store locations or via apple.com already lack a nano-SIM card in the box, with users typically able to activate a cellular plan via eSIM by turning on the iPhone, connecting to a Wi-Fi network, and following the on-screen instructions.
Given the supposed September 2022 deadline, it’s feasible that Apple could begin removing the physical SIM card slot with the iPhone 14 models.
An eSIM is a digital SIM that allows users to activate a cellular plan without having to use a nano-SIM card. It’s worth noting that eSIM service is not available in all countries, so iPhones with a SIM card slot may remain available in some markets. Adoption is expanding rapidly, though, with over 100 carriers offering eSIM service worldwide and more planning to roll out support in 2022, including Three in the UK and Vodafone in New Zealand.
The iPhone 13 models already support multiple eSIM profiles, which allow users to subscribe to several cellular plans and switch between them as needed. This functionality could pave the way for the SIM card slot’s departure in certain countries.
Albeit a significant change, the SIM card slot’s removal would be another step towards a seamless design and improve water resistance in the process. Taking out the slot would also free up some valuable internal space in the iPhone.
Stay tuned for additional details as they become available.
Via MacRumors, Blog do iPhone, iFixit, and @dylandkt