According to a new leak shared today by Majin Bu, the upcoming iPhone 17 Pro may include a physical SIM tray in select markets offering flexibility while Apple expands eSIM adoption globally (via MacRumors).
Leaked images allegedly show a SIM tray slot in the side frame of the iPhone 17 Pro. That hints Apple may be holding onto legacy hardware for users in markets where eSIM support remains limited.
The move would align with reports that the ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air could forego a SIM tray entirely, while Pro models retain it where needed. Since the launch of the iPhone 14 in 2022 Apple has sold eSIM only models in the United States, removing the physical tray entirely. Outside the US physical SIM support remains widespread.
Today’s leak shows how Apple might tailor hardware by region rather than removing SIM tray across all devices in one swift shift. Many users around the world still rely on physical SIM cards to easily swap carriers when traveling to regions with spotty eSIM coverage or where local carriers have not enabled eSIM provisioning.
Apple often experiments with new features on Pro lineups or certain markets before committing them globally. Here the trend might play out in reverse. With the iPhone 17 Pro, Apple may be holding onto physical SIM options in parts of the world while offering a SIM-free design in more advanced markets.
Apple is expected to announce the full iPhone 17 lineup in September 2025. Rumors suggest higher-end models will feature the A19 Pro chip built on an advanced 3-nanometer process along with enhancements to cameras and frame materials.
Amid all this, the SIM tray decision feels small but signals Apple’s attention to both global markets and consumer flexibility.
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The big three carriers are hesitant to fully adopt eSIM technology, maintaining outdated restrictions on its use and accessibility. For example, if you often switch devices, you can’t simply transfer the same eSIM—you have to contact your carrier’s tech support and there are limits/restrictions on how many times you can do this. This is just one of many frustrating scenarios.
Additionally, Apple’s US support team has received tones of complaints about eSIM issues. Many believe that, like in most other parts of the world, the US should still offer at least one physical SIM option.