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A new analyst report claims that Apple will offer the “iPhone 14” in both a SIM and an eSIM-only variant.
Apple introduced eSIM support in 2018, allowing iPhone owners to use two cellular plans on one device. Since then, there have been rumors that Apple will eventually switch to eSIM exclusively, perhaps with the iPhone 15. GlobalData analyst Emma Mohr-McClune expressed Today, it is assumed that Apple will not immediately switch completely to eSIM-only iPhones, but will offer an eSIM-only version of the iPhone 14 in its own stores and give network operators the opportunity to sell the eSIM-only model alongside the conventional models with eSIM and nano-SIM card tray. There are still many mobile operators around the world that do not support eSIM. Therefore, Mohr-McClune's prediction that iPhone 14 models with nano-SIM card trays will still be available makes perfect sense.
iPhone 14 could establish eSIM technology more firmly
However, eSIM is becoming increasingly popular: over 100 mobile operators worldwide offer eSIM services and more plan to introduce support this year. An eSIM is a digital SIM card that allows users to activate a cellular plan without having to use a physical nano-SIM card. Apple first introduced eSIM technology with the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max and iPhone XR in 2018. The iPhone 13 models already support multiple eSIM profiles, allowing users to digitally subscribe to and switch between multiple cellular plans. This functionality could pave the way for an eSIM-only variant of the iPhone 14, at least in some markets. (Image: Jon Prosser x Rendersbyan)
