A newly surfaced image claims to show the side frame of the upcoming iPhone 17 Pro with a visible SIM card tray slot, suggesting that Apple may reintroduce physical SIM support in some regions. The leak comes from a supply chain source in China and has been circulating on Chinese social platforms, raising questions about whether Apple’s eSIM-only approach is shifting.
In recent years, Apple’s move to eSIM-only models in the United States starting with iPhone 14 drew attention across the industry. This new part leak could indicate a different plan for the iPhone 17 Pro lineup, at least in select countries, and adds to ongoing iPhone 17 Pro rumors about hardware flexibility for regional requirements.
The photo by Majin Bu shows a metal frame with a clear cutout and outline for a SIM tray, positioned similarly to earlier iPhone designs. While there is no official confirmation, the part appears to match Apple’s precision manufacturing style and color finishes for current Pro models. It is still unclear whether this component is for a mass production unit, a prototype, or a regional variant intended for markets where eSIM adoption remains limited.
There are practical and strategic reasons why Apple could retain or reintroduce a physical SIM option. In many countries, mobile carriers have not fully embraced eSIM technology, making physical SIM cards more convenient for consumers. International travelers also often prefer swapping local SIM cards to avoid high roaming charges. In some markets, regulators require devices to support physical SIMs. This aligns with Apple’s past approach of offering different hardware configurations depending on region, as seen with Apple eSIM-only models in the U.S. and physical SIM versions elsewhere.
Apple is expected to announce the iPhone 17 lineup in September 2025. The Pro models are rumored to feature a new A19 Pro chip, a lighter titanium frame, and camera improvements. While design leaks like this are common ahead of launch, it is important to remember that early prototype parts do not always match the final retail version. Even if a SIM tray slot appears in this leaked frame, it may not be present in every shipping model worldwide.
If genuine, this leak could be significant for users who value physical SIM flexibility, especially where eSIM coverage remains inconsistent. More details are likely to surface as Apple’s supply chain ramps up in the months leading to launch, and we will track further iPhone 17 Pro rumors, Apple eSIM-only models context, and any A19 Pro chip upgrade details that emerge.
