Several clues and rumors suggest that Apple will offer an iPhone 14 this year with only eSIM and no longer support for a nano-SIM card. But this model would be optional.

An exclusively eSIM model for the iPhone 14

According to analyst Emma Mohr-McClune of the firm GlobalData, Apple will not only sell iPhone 14s that only support eSIM. The manufacturer would offer these models through its stores and at operators, allowing customers to make a choice at the time of purchase. Those who are confident in the eSIM and know that it will be enough for them could thus choose this model. For others, the model with the physical SIM would still be offered.

This choice can be understood for a very simple reason: not all operators in the world yet support eSIM. In France alone, Free Mobile has taken its time to support this format: it's only been a few months. Orange, SFR and Bouygues Telecom, on the other hand, were faster.

For those who do not know, the eSIM is a chip directly integrated into a device (the iPhone in this case). It is possible to activate a plan without using a physical SIM card. Apple first used this format in 2018 with the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR.

There has been progress with the iPhone 13, smartphones are able to manage two eSIMs at the same time. Apple is therefore preparing the ground for future models and better support.