On October 22, 2025, the domestic edition of the iPhone Air was officially launched, marking its status as mainland China's inaugural smartphone exclusively utilizing eSIM technology. This model notably omits the conventional physical SIM card slot, necessitating that users visit offline carrier stores to activate eSIM services. The iPhone Air is compatible with eSIM services from China's three major telecommunications providers: China Mobile, China Telecom, and China Unicom. It is available in four striking colors: Deep Space Black, Cloud White, Light Gold, and Sky Blue. The device starts with a storage capacity of 256GB and is priced at 7,999 yuan.
The eSIM technology seamlessly embeds the functionalities of traditional SIM cards into the device's chipset. This integration facilitates communication without the need for a physical SIM card, thereby conserving internal space and bolstering security measures. However, in the dynamic tech market of Huaqiangbei, some tech enthusiasts and third-party repair shops have ingeniously managed to retrofit physical SIM card slots onto the iPhone Air, allowing users the flexibility to use traditional SIM cards alongside eSIM technology if they so choose. This modification highlights the ingenuity and adaptability within the tech community, catering to diverse user preferences.
