iPhone Air China Release Delayed: Apple Awaits eSIM Approval

iPhone 17 Release Date and China's eSIM Delay

The global launch of Apple’s iPhone 17 series is scheduled for September 19th in the majority of international markets. However, the release of the iPhone Air, anticipated to be an eSIM-only model, is facing a delay specifically within China.

Regulatory Hurdles in China

This postponement is strongly believed to stem from regulatory challenges concerning the authorization of embedded SIM technology. Apple’s official website acknowledges that China Mobile, China Telecom, and China Unicom – the three major state-owned carriers – will provide eSIM compatibility for the iPhone Air.

Nevertheless, the timing of the device’s availability remains contingent upon receiving the necessary regulatory clearances. Pre-orders for the other models within the iPhone 17 lineup are slated to begin this Friday.

Communication from Apple and Carriers

Reports from the South China Morning Post indicate that Apple has communicated to local news outlets its ongoing collaboration with regulatory bodies. The company aims to make the iPhone Air accessible in China at the earliest possible opportunity.

China Mobile previously announced on the Weibo platform that it had activated eSIM services for mobile devices, although a specific launch date was not disclosed.

Shifting Information and Apple's Response

China Telecom also publicized the launch of its own eSIM service coinciding with the expected iPhone 17 release date of September 19th, via a post on RedNote. However, this particular announcement was subsequently taken down, as highlighted by SCMP.

Currently, Apple has not yet responded to requests for further commentary on the situation.

Key Takeaways

• The iPhone 17 series will launch globally on September 19th.
• The iPhone Air’s release in China is delayed due to eSIM regulatory approvals.
• Chinese carriers are preparing for eSIM support, but launch timelines are uncertain.
• Apple is actively working with authorities to resolve the issue.