Goodbye SIM Trays: iPhone 17 Goes eSIM-Only in Europe

Leaked images from Majin Bu and Sonny Dickson reveal Apple's first major clear case redesign since MagSafe's 2020 debut. The iPhone 17 Pro, slated to be slightly thicker with a new camera bar stretching across its top third, will ship with a clear shell whose back panel features an opaque white rectangle hiding both the MagSafe magnets and the Apple logo. Apple is reportedly exploring tinted transparent variants as limited seasonal editions.

Evan Blass-shared UAG renders confirm the wider camera module on Pro and Pro Max models and the iPhone 17 Air's single-lens configuration. Alongside the clear case, Apple plans to refresh its silicone lineup in eight colors, introduce TechWoven canvas cases in five hues with anodized metal buttons, and debut a woven crossbody strap—all arriving at the September 9 "Awe Dropping" event at 10 a.m. PT.

Apple to Sell iPhone 17 as eSIM-Only in Europe

Apple is preparing to remove the physical SIM card slot from the iPhone 17 lineup in EU markets, according to a MacRumors report. Retail employees at Apple Authorized Resellers across Europe are now required to finish an eSIM training course ahead of the device's launch.

This move, first hinted at by The Information and echoed by analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, may apply across all iPhone 17 models for consistency. Key benefits include:

• Support for up to eight eSIM profiles simultaneously


• Easier carrier switching for international travelers


• Enhanced security by eliminating physical SIM-swap attacks

A leak on X by tipster pipfix has revealed a drawing of the iPhone 17 Pro Max's rumored vapor chamber cooling system, suggesting Apple may upgrade from its current graphite-and-metal sheet approach. This sealed, liquid-filled metal enclosure rapidly disperses heat by vaporizing and re-condensing internal fluid.

Rumors indicate Apple will pair this new cooling with its A19 Pro chipset to maintain peak performance during:

• Extended gaming sessions


• Prolonged video playback


• On-device AI processing

Apple's "Wonderlust" event next week should confirm whether these thermal innovations will reach consumers.