iPhone 17 Pro Leak Confirms Apple Isn’t Going eSIM-Only Globally (Yet)

For years, Apple has been slowly but surely pushing us toward an all-digital future. In the US, the physical SIM card tray on new iPhones vanished with the iPhone 14, making the switch to eSIMs a done deal. But a new leak suggests that for the rest of the world, Apple’s global strategy isn’t moving as fast as some might have thought. Images of the alleged SIM card tray/slot of the upcoming iPhone 17 Pro have now emerged on the internet.

Apple will keep the SIM card slot for the iPhone 17 Pro in some countries

The images were shared by leaker Majin Bu on X/Twitter. If the images are real, the upcoming iPhone 17 Pro will still feature a physical SIM card tray in at least some countries. This confirms that Apple isn’t yet ready to make the full leap to a “SIM-free” global lineup with its most premium flagship.

Back in November 2024, a report from The Information stated that Apple was considering a more aggressive approach. More specifically, the company would expand its “eSIM-only” vision to more countries. However, the report specifically targeted the ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air, the upcoming model that will replace the Plus. That rumor suggested the 17 Air would not have a SIM card in more regions. That said, the report didn’t specify which ones.

Now, with this new iPhone 17 Pro leak, it seems Apple is taking a more cautious, two-track approach. The company is likely testing the waters with the ultra-thin, almost experimental, 17 Air. Keeping a physical tray on its flagship Pro model to cater to countries where eSIM adoption is still low seems like a smart move.

While a physical SIM tray may seem like a small detail, this leak reveals a lot about Apple’s strategy. It confirms that the transition to a truly “eSIM-only” world will likely be a slow, country-by-country process. After all, such a sudden change could be shocking—especially in certain regions.