IPhone Air to Begin Pre-Order in China After Telecom Operators Approved for eSIM Services

Wedoany.com Report-Oct. 15, Apple announced on Monday that its new iPhone Air will be available for pre-order in China starting Friday, October 17. Priced from 7,999 yuan ($1,121.56), the iPhone Air will be the first model in China to feature support for eSIM technology, a digital SIM embedded in the device, enabling connectivity through major telecom providers.

A person holds an iPhone air during Apple's event at the Steve Jobs Theater on its campus in Cupertino, California, U.S. September 9, 2025.

The country’s three leading telecom operators—China Mobile, China Telecom, and China Unicom—have received regulatory approval to offer trial eSIM services, according to a website linked to the industry ministry. This development allows these providers to support the iPhone Air’s eSIM functionality, marking a significant step in enhancing mobile connectivity options for consumers in China.

Apple CEO Tim Cook, currently in Shanghai, shared the news on Weibo, stating: "Excited to announce iPhone Air will be available next week and pre-orders start this Friday, October 17!" The announcement comes shortly after the iPhone 17 launch in China, highlighting Apple’s continued focus on introducing advanced technology to the market.

The iPhone Air’s eSIM support is expected to streamline user experiences by eliminating the need for physical SIM cards, offering greater flexibility for consumers. This move aligns with global trends toward digital connectivity solutions, positioning China’s telecom infrastructure to meet growing demands for innovative mobile services.