iPhone倒逼eSIM回归，落地可能就在今年

Core Viewpoint - The eSIM technology in China is on the verge of revival after nearly a decade of stagnation, with significant developments expected in 2023, driven by both policy changes and market demands [1][4][21]. Group 1: Historical Context and Development - eSIM technology was first introduced by GSMA in June 2016, and after two years of trials, it saw a surge in 2020 when major telecom operators in China began offering eSIM services for wearable and IoT devices [2][4]. - Despite having a comprehensive eSIM industry framework, the consumer adoption of eSIM in mainland China has been limited until recently [1][4]. Group 2: Recent Challenges - In 2023, the three major telecom operators in China suspended eSIM consumer services due to system upgrades, impacting the growth of eSIM users, which reached 3.62 million by the end of 2023, with 1.43 million new users that year [4][21]. - The suspension is attributed to security concerns, including vulnerabilities that allowed fraudulent registrations and misuse of eSIM technology [4][6]. Group 3: Operational Implications - eSIM technology reduces operational costs for telecom operators by eliminating the need for physical SIM card production and logistics, but it also weakens the contractual relationship between users and operators, leading to potential customer churn [5][6]. - The introduction of eSIM has made it easier for users to switch operators, which has raised concerns among telecom companies about losing customers [6][7]. Group 4: Future Prospects - The anticipated revival of eSIM services in 2025 aligns with the growing demand for connectivity in the AI era, as eSIM technology is essential for new hardware products like smart glasses [8][10]. - Major smartphone manufacturers, including Apple, are pushing for eSIM adoption, with upcoming models like the iPhone 17 Air expected to eliminate physical SIM slots entirely [12][14]. - The global trend towards eSIM adoption is expected to accelerate, with projections indicating that by 2025, approximately 1 billion eSIM-enabled smartphones will be connected worldwide, with China emerging as a key growth market [21][22].