Apple is set to release its upcoming iPhone 17 series on September 19 in most countries around the world. However, the launch of the eSIM-only iPhone Air in China has been delayed, possibly due to regulatory issues related to the approval of the embedded SIM.
Apple’s website notes that all three of China’s state-owned network providers—China Mobile, China Telecom, and China Unicom—will offer eSIM support for the iPhone Air, but says the release timing will be subject to regulatory approval. The other new phones, which are slated to launch on Friday, will be available on other carriers.
According to the South China Morning Post, Apple told local media that it is working with regulators to bring the iPhone Air to China “as soon as possible.” The report, which was cited by China Mobile on social media Weibo, said the network has enabled eSIM services for the handsets, although no launch date was mentioned.
China Telecom posted a Rednote about the launch of its eSIM service on September 19, when the iPhone 17 line is scheduled to be released. However, the post has since been removed, SCMP noted.
Apple did not immediately return a request for comment.
