Katarzyna Petru
Apple is consistently developing its strategy to transition 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 slot for traditional operator cards. This would mean a full transition to eSIM support in selected models. This solution has been in place in the USA since the iPhone 14 series, and in subsequent years has spread to other regions. Now a similar change is set to encompass the European market. For some users, this is a revolution; for others, a natural step towards the digitalisation of services.
Europe Joins 'eSIM Only'
According to reports, Apple plans to expand the sale of models operating solely on eSIM to additional countries, including European states. This change will primarily affect 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. Initially, the solution appeared in the United States, then it arrived in selected Asian and North American markets. Now, the strategy is set to be standardised across Europe as well.
More space inside, bigger battery
Eliminating the SIM card tray gives engineers additional space inside the casing. According to leaks, the iPhone 18 Pro Max could receive a battery with a 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 activation of the number, and in some countries, this process can still be less intuitive than the traditional card swap.
Reports also indicate a possible separation of the launch of the iPhone 18 series models. 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 betting on eSIM, and in the process gains space for a larger battery. This is a change that simplifies the device's design, but requires full readiness from operators and users. Final decisions will only be known at the official premiere.
Source: Techmaniacs, Android Headlines
