Some models of the new iPhone could say goodbye to the SIM card tray.
Apple could be preparing to end support for physical SIM cards.
Power On, the newsletter of Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman, provided its last update prior to the launch of the iPhone 14 on September 7.
Gurman, one of the most respected voices when it comes to Apple news before they hit the market, revived a rumor that is getting stronger: the Cupertino company does not like physical SIM cards very much .
“ Apple will give eSIM a bigger push this time around, with carriers preparing to steer users towards digital, digital SIM cards instead of physical ones. Actually, Apple has considered getting rid of the port for physical SIM cards starting this year or next for some models, “says Gurman.
iPhone without a physical SIM card: What does this mean?
Users will need their carriers to implement plans with eSIM , a standard that allows devices to be activated without the need for a physical SIM .
Apple started supporting eSIM on its iPhone XS , mainly for users looking to use two mobile plans at the same time.
If some (or all) iPhone 14s are exclusive to eSIM , this does not mean that this change will reach everyone. Although Apple considers the iPhone a “global phone,” there are slight variations between iPhones targeting different regions.
A clear case is the support for 5G mmWave (millimeter band), limited to countries where this type of 5G networks are more present.
We wouldn’t be surprised if Apple says goodbye to the SIM tray. Their iPhones have ditched the headphone jack and boxed charger in the past.
Obviously, the most affected (at least for now) would be users who import equipment from other countries.