Apple is preparing to launch its iPhone 17 series globally on September 19, but the eSIM-only iPhone Air is facing delays in China due to pending regulatory approval for the embedded SIM. The company’s website states that all three major Chinese carriers will support eSIM for the iPhone Air, but the exact release date depends on regulatory clearance. According to South China Morning Post, Apple is collaborating with Chinese authorities to expedite the iPhone Air’s availability in the country. China Telecom and China Mobile have indicated they are enabling eSIM services, though specific launch dates remain unclear. This update is worth reading because it highlights the challenges tech companies face with local regulations, and it provides insight into how Apple is navigating these complexities in China.
Key facts
- Apple is delaying the release of the eSIM-only iPhone Air in China due to regulatory hurdles.
- The iPhone 17 series is set to launch globally on September 19, but the iPhone Air’s release in China is uncertain.
- All three major Chinese carriers will support eSIM for the iPhone Air, but the release is pending regulatory approval.
- Apple is working with Chinese authorities to bring the iPhone Air to the market as soon as possible.
- China Telecom and China Mobile have enabled eSIm services, though no official launch date has been confirmed.
