Apple has delayed the launch of its new iPhone Air in China, after regulatory concerns arose over the model’s exclusive use of eSIM instead of a physical SIM card slot. Local authorities have reportedly flagged this as a compliance issue, prompting Apple to pause its originally planned release while discussions continue.
Before the delay, Apple’s Chinese online store had prepared for preorders to begin on September 12, with in-store availability expected one week later. That schedule has been rescinded, and the webpage for the iPhone Air now displays a placeholder message saying the release date will be updated later. It’s not yet clear when the device will finally go on sale in China.
Despite the delay, Apple seems confident that the three major Chinese telecom carriers—China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom—will eventually offer the iPhone Air. The regulatory issue appears specifically tied to rules around SIM hardware, where physical SIMs are still mandated or preferred by Chinese regulators for various reasons including security and control.
The iPhone Air marks Apple’s thinnest ever phone, at just 5.6 mm, a design made possible in part by removing the physical SIM tray. The device also features a lightweight build and stronger design elements to balance its slim profile. The move toward eSIM is seen as one of the design decisions enabling this ultra-thin structure.
China represents a substantial portion of Apple’s global revenue (roughly 15-17% in recent quarters), so delays in this market carry weight. Apple is reportedly prioritizing resolving the regulatory concerns quickly so the iPhone Air can launch there without further postponements.
