Apple Postpones iPhone Air Release in China Over eSIM Licensing
Apple has announced a delay in the launch of its newly unveiled iPhone Air model in China, citing regulatory challenges tied to the device’s embedded SIM (eSIM) design. According to the company, Chinese wireless carriers must obtain a special government license before offering devices equipped with eSIM technology, a requirement that has yet to be fulfilled.
The iPhone Air, introduced at Apple’s annual event, represents the first significant redesign of the iPhone since the 2017 iPhone X. At just 5.6 millimeters thick, the model exclusively supports eSIM and does not include a physical SIM card slot. Apple CEO Tim Cook highlighted that the eSIM-only design contributes to improved battery life by freeing up space previously occupied by the physical SIM card.
Initially, Apple had planned to open preorders for the iPhone Air in China on Friday, with sales starting on September 19. However, as of Friday morning, the product page on Apple’s China website indicated that release information would be updated later. The site also noted that China Mobile, China Telecom, and China Unicom intend to support eSIM for the iPhone Air, but the timing depends on regulatory clearance.
Apple has stated it is actively working to make the iPhone Air available in China as soon as the necessary approvals are obtained. The postponement underscores ongoing regulatory complexities in the Chinese market, particularly concerning emerging mobile technologies such as eSIM.
FinOracleAI — Market View
The delay in launching the iPhone Air in China is likely to exert short-term negative pressure on Apple’s market performance in the region, given China’s significance as a smartphone market. Regulatory hurdles around eSIM implementation highlight risks in Apple’s rollout of new technology features across different jurisdictions. Investors should monitor updates on Chinese carrier approvals and any potential impact on Apple’s broader supply chain and sales forecasts.
Impact: negative
