This year’s iPhone Air introduced a new design trend for the iPhone lineup, in addition to trimming down its thickness. Apple’s thinnest iPhone removed the SIM tray entirely, launching as an eSIM-only model across all international markets. Now, the upcoming 2026 iPhone Fold is rumored to adopt the same approach.
Chinese leaker Instant Digital claims that Apple plans to launch its first foldable iPhone as an eSIM-only device, removing the physical SIM tray altogether. That said, this isn’t the first time we’ve heard reports suggesting that the iPhone Fold may follow the same path as the iPhone Air.
Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman previously reported that next year’s iPhone Fold will be a “super-thin” device, essentially resembling two titanium iPhone Air units placed side by side. Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo echoed the same statement earlier in January.
Removing the SIM tray could help Apple make the device thinner and lighter, which is basically the same goal the company is expected to pursue for future iPhones. However, the move also comes with drawbacks, including limited global eSIM support and a more complicated experience when switching to a new device.
This could be a significant challenge for Apple in mainland China, where the company is expected to sell most of its foldable iPhones. Yet, many consumers there still prefer using physical SIM cards. After Apple launched the iPhone Air in China, it had to partner with China Mobile, China Telecom, and China Unicom to enable eSIM support. Customers still need to visit their local carrier’s store to activate the eSIM on their device.
According to previous reports, the iPhone Fold is expected to debut in September 2026 alongside the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. If it sounds a bit weird, that’s because Apple wants to overhaul its release strategy and shift to a biannual iPhone launch cycle in 2026.
What are your thoughts on an eSIM-only iPhone Fold? Would this influence your decision to buy one? Share your opinion in the comments below.