Apple has confirmed September 9, 2025, as the date of its next major launch event, where the iPhone 17 series is expected to make its debut. Apple is anticipated to introduce the iPhone 17 lineup with four distinct models. The range is likely to feature the standard iPhone 17, a thinner and more lightweight iPhone 17 Air, as well as the high-end iPhone 17 Pro and the flagship iPhone 17 Pro Max.
However, just before the launch of the iPhone 17 lineup, there appears to be a new report from MacRumors. The report states that Apple is reportedly planning to make its latest iPhone 17 series lineup only e-SIM compatible in several international markets. This move is a long-awaited and planned move from Apple to move away from physical SIM card slots, helping cut costs in other area.
The iPhone 17 lineup is rumored to debut with an upgraded take on the Dynamic Island, delivering a smoother and more intuitive experience. Additionally, both the regular and Pro editions are likely to receive advanced interactive functions and polished visual elements in the interface, driven by the next-generation iOS 26 platform. Industry insiders and experts are eagerly awaiting the launch of the iPhone series to see what new upgrades will be provided this year.
Employees being trained to learn e-SIM usage?
Citing sources familiar with the matter, MacRumors reported that Apple has mandated retail employees to undergo a training course related to iPhone models with eSIM support. The requirement has reportedly been made at Apple Authorised Resellers in the EU, which includes countries such as France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands. The report adds that Apple retail employees are required to complete their training by Friday (September 5), four days before the Cupertino-based tech giant’s “Awe Dropping” event. The training is expected to be available via Apple’s SEED app.
What the future holds?
This move depicts an indication of the iPhone 17 series going SIM-less in more markets. Apple first removed the physical SIM tray beginning with the iPhone 14 lineup in 2022. While subsequent iPhone models have followed a similar pattern, it has been restricted to the smartphones in the US. Although it offers both physical and e-SIM support in many other international markets like India.
What are e-SIM?
eSIM is generally considered to be a more convenient alternative to a physical SIM card. It is said to be a more secure solution, along with instant deactivation. However, there are a few downsides too. The support for eSIM is still limited to premium devices, and if you are someone who switches between phones quite frequently, the process is not a simple as swapping the physical SIM from one handset to another.
iPhone 17 Launch Date:
Apple has officially set the debut of its iPhone 17 series, keeping to its usual release schedule. The iPhone 17 , alongside the rest of the models, is slated to be unveiled on September 9 at 10:30 pm IST. The launch, branded as the “Awe Dropping” event, will be hosted at Apple Park in Cupertino, a detail confirmed by CEO Tim Cook.
iPhone 17 Price:
The entry prices of the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max are projected to rise to approximately $1,049 and $1,249. This upward revision is viewed as Apple’s response to mounting tariffs and escalating production expenses. While the base iPhone 17 variant will remain at around $799.
iPhone 17 Design:
One of the standout shifts on the iPhone 17 series is anticipated to be its revamped rear camera module. Reports indicate that Apple may abandon the long-standing vertical three-lens arrangement. Instead, the handset is rumored to adopt a wide rectangular camera housing stretching across the back, resembling the design language found on Google’s Pixel lineup.
