Apple Postpones iPhone Air Launch in China Amid eSIM Regulatory Hurdles
Apple is preparing to unveil its iPhone 17 series globally on September 19, but the launch of the eSIM-only iPhone Air in China faces delays pending regulatory approval of embedded SIM technology.
While Apple’s official website confirms that China’s three major state-owned carriers—China Mobile, China Telecom, and China Unicom—will support eSIM for the iPhone Air, it also notes that the release timing is contingent on regulatory clearance. Pre-orders for the other iPhone 17 models are set to begin this Friday.
According to the South China Morning Post, Apple has communicated to local media that it is actively working with regulatory bodies to expedite the iPhone Air’s availability in China. China Mobile referenced enabling eSIM services on the social platform Weibo but did not specify a launch date.
Similarly, China Telecom briefly posted on RedNote about launching its eSIM service on September 19, coinciding with the iPhone 17 launch, but the post was subsequently removed, highlighting ongoing uncertainties.
Apple has not publicly commented further on the delay or provided an updated timeline. The situation underscores the complexities of navigating China’s regulatory environment for emerging mobile technologies like eSIM.
FinOracleAI — Market View
The delay of the iPhone Air launch in China due to pending eSIM regulatory approval introduces localized supply chain and sales risks for Apple in a critical market. Although the broader iPhone 17 series launch remains unaffected, the postponement may dampen initial sales momentum and consumer uptake for the new model in China. Investors should monitor regulatory developments and carrier announcements closely, as any protracted approval process could extend the delay. However, the overall impact on Apple’s global revenue is likely muted in the short term given the continued rollout elsewhere.
Impact: neutral
