Shang Hai Zheng Quan Bao·2025-09-10 10:44Core Viewpoint - Apple has launched the thinnest iPhone ever, the iPhone Air, which utilizes eSIM technology to achieve a lightweight design. Currently, only China Unicom supports eSIM for this device, while China Mobile and China Telecom are expected to follow suit soon [1][2]. Group 1: eSIM Technology and Market Impact - eSIM is a digital SIM card that eliminates the need for a physical SIM card, offering greater flexibility and security. It is supported by over 500 global operators, including China Unicom, and facilitates easier international roaming [2][6]. - The global eSIM application is experiencing a growth wave driven by the demand for AI smart terminals, international roaming, and IoT devices. Investment opportunities are anticipated in cellular IoT communication modules and eSIM management platforms [1][6][7]. Group 2: Historical Context and Challenges - eSIM trials began in China in 2017, but the service was halted in 2023 due to operational upgrades. China Unicom resumed eSIM services in July 2023, indicating a renewed interest in this technology [4][5]. - Two main reasons for the previous stagnation in eSIM development in China include reduced user loyalty to operators and early security vulnerabilities that allowed misuse of eSIM technology [5][6]. Group 3: Future Prospects - The eSIM technology is expected to reshape the global mobile connectivity landscape, with its integration into various devices like smartphones, computers, and IoT devices. The market size for eSIM is projected to grow significantly as manufacturers increasingly embed eSIMs in their products [6][7].