Do New iPhones Have SIM Cards? Everything You Need to Know in 2025

Wondering if new iPhones have SIM cards? Learn the difference between physical SIM and eSIM in the latest iPhones and how it impacts users worldwide.

If you’ve recently shopped for a new iPhone, you might be asking yourself: do new iPhones have SIM cards? The answer depends on where you live and which iPhone model you purchase. Apple has been transitioning away from physical SIM cards in favor of eSIM technology, and this shift has caused many buyers to wonder how they’ll stay connected.

In this article, we’ll explain whether the latest iPhones include SIM card slots, how eSIM works, and what this means for international travelers and everyday users.

Do New iPhones Come With a SIM Card Slot?

Apple began phasing out the SIM tray with the release of the iPhone 14 series in the United States. Those models sold in the U.S. are eSIM-only, meaning they don’t support physical SIM cards at all. Instead, users activate mobile service digitally through an eSIM.

However, in other regions like Europe, Asia, and Africa, new iPhones often still include a SIM card tray alongside eSIM support. This is to accommodate carriers and countries where eSIM adoption isn’t yet widespread.

What Is an eSIM and How Does It Work?

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital version of the physical SIM card. Instead of inserting a chip, you activate service by scanning a QR code or downloading a carrier profile directly to your phone.

Benefits of eSIM in new iPhones:

Instant setup – no waiting for a physical SIM to arrive.
Dual SIM flexibility – many iPhones let you run multiple eSIMs at once.
Space saving – frees up internal space, allowing for slimmer devices.
More secure – harder to lose or damage compared to physical SIMs.

Apple provides a detailed guide on how to activate eSIM on iPhone.

Which iPhones Still Support Physical SIM Cards?

While the U.S. versions of the iPhone 14, iPhone 15, and the upcoming iPhone 16 models have gone eSIM-only, iPhones sold in most international markets still include a SIM tray. This means:

U.S. buyers: eSIM only, no physical SIM card slot.
Global buyers: dual SIM support (1 physical SIM + 1 eSIM).

If you rely on swapping SIMs while traveling, buying an international version of the iPhone may still be useful.

Advantages and Challenges of eSIM-Only iPhones

Like any new technology, eSIM has both pros and cons.

Advantages:

No need to visit a store for a SIM card.
Easy to switch between carriers with a few taps.
Store multiple eSIM profiles for work, travel, or personal use.

Challenges:

Not all carriers support eSIM yet, especially in developing regions.
Travelers may face issues buying prepaid data plans in countries that still rely on physical SIMs.
Transferring your number requires digital setup instead of a quick SIM swap.

For travelers, companies like Airalo and Holafly offer convenient eSIM data packages for international use.

How to Check if Your Carrier Supports eSIM

Before upgrading to a new iPhone, it’s smart to confirm that your carrier supports eSIM. Most major carriers such as AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile in the U.S. already do. Globally, adoption is expanding quickly.

You can usually check your carrier’s official website or look at Apple’s list of eSIM-supported carriers.

Thinking of upgrading to a new iPhone? Make sure your carrier supports eSIM before making the switch. For frequent travelers, explore affordable data plans with Airalo or Holafly to stay connected anywhere.

So, do new iPhones have SIM cards? The answer is yes and no—it depends on the market. In the U.S., iPhones starting from the iPhone 14 are eSIM-only, while in other regions, they still include a physical SIM tray alongside eSIM support.

Apple’s push toward eSIM shows the future of mobile connectivity is digital, offering convenience and flexibility. Whether you’re at home or traveling abroad, understanding how eSIM works will help you get the most out of your new iPhone.

Upgrade with confidence, check your carrier’s compatibility, and embrace the eSIM revolution—it’s here to stay.