Core Viewpoint - Apple has delayed the release of the iPhone Air in China due to regulatory approvals, while other models like iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max are still on schedule for pre-order and release [1][3]. Group 1: iPhone Air Release Delay - The iPhone Air's sales status has been changed to "sales information to be updated later," indicating a delay in its release pending regulatory approval [1]. - Apple confirmed the delay and expressed eagerness for users to experience the iPhone Air, stating they are working closely with regulatory bodies to expedite the launch [3]. Group 2: eSIM Technology Adoption - The iPhone Air is Apple's thinnest model to date and has transitioned to eSIM technology, eliminating the physical SIM card slot [3]. - Major Chinese telecom operators have begun offering eSIM services, with China Unicom being the first to support eSIM activation, followed by China Mobile and China Telecom [3][4]. Group 3: Regulatory Challenges - The slow adoption of eSIM in China has been attributed to regulatory and operational challenges, particularly concerning fraud prevention and strict real-name registration requirements [4][5]. - Apple has implemented localized security measures for eSIM in China, requiring users to activate eSIM in-person at China Unicom outlets, thus preventing remote activation [5]. Group 4: User Experience Concerns - The restrictions on eSIM activation may impact user convenience, especially for those traveling abroad, as they cannot pre-activate overseas eSIMs [5]. - There is uncertainty regarding whether international students and overseas Chinese can seamlessly switch from overseas eSIMs to domestic plans or continue using their overseas numbers within China [5].

Group 1 - Apple has delayed the release of the iPhone Air in China, stating that all models will be released after obtaining regulatory approval, while other models like iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max will start pre-orders at 8 PM Beijing time [1] - The iPhone Air is marketed as Apple's "thinnest" model and has eliminated the physical SIM card slot in favor of eSIM technology to create more internal space [1] - The delay may be related to China's strict real-name registration and anti-fraud regulations [1] Group 2 - Following Apple's announcement, the three major telecom operators in China have launched eSIM services, with China Unicom being the first to support eSIM activation in physical stores [2] - China Mobile and China Telecom have also announced their readiness to offer eSIM services to users, marking a significant shift in the domestic telecom landscape [2] - The slow adoption of eSIM in China has been attributed to regulatory challenges and the potential for fraud, as eSIM allows multiple numbers on a single card, complicating the enforcement of strict real-name policies [2] Group 3 - Apple has made local adaptations for eSIM in China, requiring users to activate eSIM in person at China Unicom stores, thus eliminating remote activation options [3] - Only the domestic version of the iPhone Air will support eSIM, and users will not be able to activate overseas carrier services until they leave China [3] - New regulations from China Unicom include prohibiting cross-border activation and requiring precise geographic verification to ensure compliance with local regulations [3]