Apple Delays iPhone Air Launch in China Over eSIM Approval Hurdles
Apple has confirmed that the launch of its new iPhone Air in China will be delayed due to regulatory challenges linked to its eSIM-only design.
Chinese wireless carriers are still awaiting government approval to offer devices using eSIM technology, which has prevented the rollout of the iPhone Air in the region. Apple stated that it is actively working with local partners to make the smartphone available as soon as the licensing process is complete.
Unveiled at Apple’s annual September event, the iPhone Air represents the company’s first major design overhaul since the iPhone X in 2017. At just 5.6 millimeters thick, it is Apple’s thinnest iPhone yet. Unlike previous models, the device eliminates the physical SIM card slot entirely, relying solely on an embedded eSIM.
CEO Tim Cook highlighted that the eSIM architecture not only streamlines the design but also helps extend battery life. “It’s eSIM-only, which allowed us to expand the battery into areas previously used for the SIM tray,” he explained in a recent interview.
Initially, Apple had announced that preorders in China would begin this Friday, followed by official sales starting September 19. However, the product page for the iPhone Air on Apple’s Chinese website now reads: “Release information will be updated later.”
Apple has confirmed that China Mobile, China Telecom, and China Unicom will eventually support the iPhone Air’s eSIM functionality, though the exact timeline will depend on when regulatory approval is granted.
