Apple(US:AAPL) Hu Xiu·2025-09-12 12:09Core Viewpoint - Apple has announced a delay in the release of the iPhone Air in China, confirming that China Mobile, China Telecom, and China Unicom will provide eSIM support for the device [1][2]. Group 1: Product Details - The iPhone Air features an ultra-thin design, measuring only 5.6 mm in thickness and weighing 165 grams, with a 6.5-inch screen and powered by the A19 Pro processor [2][3]. - The device will only support eSIM technology, eliminating the need for a physical SIM card slot, which has led to its delayed launch in China compared to other iPhone models [3][4]. Group 2: eSIM Technology - eSIM (Embedded Subscriber Identity Module) is a new standard that allows users to activate mobile services without a physical SIM card, offering advantages in flexibility, security, and user experience [3]. - Apple has previously integrated eSIM functionality in its devices, starting with the iPhone XR, and has fully eliminated physical SIM slots in the iPhone 14 series sold in the U.S. market [4]. Group 3: Carrier Readiness - China Mobile has indicated that it supports eSIM mobile services and will announce further details soon [6]. - China Telecom is prepared to launch eSIM services pending approval from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, with a focus on the iPhone 17 series [7]. - China Unicom has not provided specific details regarding its eSIM services, but its official account has recently changed to reflect a focus on eSIM technology [7]. Group 4: Market Impact - Although eSIM technology is not yet fully widespread in smartphones, it has seen significant adoption in non-smartphone devices, such as smart bands, with several listed companies investing in this area [8]. - eSIM-related stocks have shown mixed performance, with companies like Unisoc Microelectronics and New Henghui seeing gains, while Tianyu Information experienced a decline [9].