Katarzyna Petru
Apple is consistently developing its strategy for transitioning to digital SIM cards, and it seems that Europe will be the next step. The latest leaks suggest that the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max may completely lose the tray for a traditional carrier card. This would mean a full transition to eSIM support in selected models. This solution has been functioning in the USA since the iPhone 14 series, and in subsequent years it has been rolled out to other regions. Now a similar change is also set to affect the European market. For some users, this is a revolution, while for others it is a natural step towards the digitisation of services.
Europe joins "eSIM only"
According to reports, Apple plans to expand the sales of models that operate solely on eSIM to additional countries, including European nations. The change will primarily involve the Pro variants, which will support two digital operator profiles instead of a physical slot. The company has been testing this approach for several years. First, the solution appeared in the United States, then it reached selected Asian and North American markets. Now, the strategy is set to be standardised across Europe.
More room inside, bigger battery
Giving up the SIM card tray provides engineers with extra space inside the casing. According to leaks, the iPhone 18 Pro Max may have a battery capacity exceeding 5100 mAh, which would be a noticeable increase compared to previous generations. In practice, this means potentially longer usage time on a single charge. On the other hand, users will have to rely solely on digital number activation, and in some countries, this process can still be less intuitive than the classic card swap.
Reports also suggest a possible separation of the launch of models from the iPhone 18 series. The Pro variants would traditionally debut in the autumn, while the cheaper models could hit the market later. Such a move would allow Apple to better spread sales over time and avoid direct competition between its own devices.
If the leaks are confirmed, the iPhone 18 Pro in Europe will be the first generation completely devoid of a physical SIM card. Apple is focusing on eSIM, and in the process, gains space for a larger battery. This is a change that simplifies the device's construction but requires full readiness from operators and users. Final decisions will only be known at the official launch.
Source: Techmaniacs, Android Headlines
