Apple is poised to finalize its strategic shift toward fully digital technology, with the upcoming iPhone series expected to eliminate the traditional SIM card slot in Europe and other international markets.

The move, anticipated for years, represents a comprehensive re-engineering of the smartphone's future, according to industry reports.

The transition gained momentum when Apple unveiled the iPhone 17 Air, a device measuring just 5.6mm thick, making a physical SIM card tray impractical.

As a result, Apple exclusively offered this model with eSIM technology worldwide, marking the first global iPhone without a traditional SIM card slot.

Apple began shipping versions of the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro to markets in the Gulf Arab states, Canada, and Japan without a physical SIM card slot in late 2025. This decision prompted telecom companies in the region to accelerate their digital transformation, activating SIM cards via QR codes or direct cloud activation.

The absence of a SIM card slot is no longer limited to the United States, as it has been since the iPhone 14.

Apple aims to simplify design and utilize every millimeter inside the device. Removing the SIM tray provides vital space for increased battery capacity.

Leaks suggest the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro Max battery could reach 5200mAh, a significant increase partially attributed to the freed internal space.

The eSIM cannot be physically removed if the device is stolen, making it easier to track via the Find My network, according to Apple support.

Eliminating side openings enhances the phone's ability to withstand greater water depths.

The removal of the physical SIM card tray allows Apple to develop a more efficient thermal cooling system for its new processors.

While the European Union prepares to fully embrace the eSIM era with the iPhone 18 series, markets like China still rely on dual physical SIM cards due to local regulatory restrictions. Travelers to countries that have not yet adopted the technology may face challenges in obtaining affordable local data plans.

Observers say the trend is clear: the SIM card tray is expected to become a relic of the past in most countries by the end of this year, paving the way for Apple to launch its foldable iPhone, which will rely entirely on wireless and digital technologies.