Apple's iPhone Air to Launch in China After Securing Key eSIM Approval
Regulatory green light from major telecom operators removes a critical barrier for the eSIM-only device, opening up a crucial market for Apple.
Apple is set to launch its new iPhone Air in the highly competitive Chinese market after the device received a critical green light from regulators. The company announced that pre-orders will begin on Friday, following confirmation that China's three largest telecom operators have secured .
The approval from China Mobile, China Telecom, and China Unicom removes a significant hurdle that had previously delayed the device's entry into one of Apple's most important international markets. The iPhone Air is an eSIM-only model globally, and its success in China was contingent on this regulatory clearance. The device, which will be the only iPhone model in the country to support the technology, is priced from 7,999 yuan (approximately $1,121).
The launch is expected to provide a significant boost to Apple's sales performance. Industry analysts are optimistic about the iPhone Air's potential, with market research firm IDC projecting it could account for . This approval gives Apple a first-mover advantage with eSIM technology in the region, a key differentiator against domestic competitors.
Wall Street has reacted positively to the development, seeing it as a key catalyst for growth. Ahead of the launch, Apple (AAPL) stock from analysts. While the immediate outlook is strong, the competitive landscape remains dynamic, as Chinese operators are expected to prepare for a broader national eSIM rollout by 2026, potentially enabling local rivals to narrow the technology gap.