iPhone Air Launch in China Delayed

Apple pushed back the launch of its new iPhone Air device in mainland China. The vendor's website in the country doesn't allow customers to place pre-orders.

The website has a message on the iPhone Air page stating that the release information will be updated later. The company, which unveiled iPhone Air alongside other new products last week, had stated the ultra-thin device would be available for pre-order in the region on 12 September, ahead of general availability on 19 September. The timeline matched the US and other major markets.

The iPhone Air uses only eSIM technology and does not have the capability to use a physical SIM. Notably, the Chinese market has traditionally mainly relied on physical SIMs, and eSIM technology adoption has been limited. All three of China’s major operators would provide eSIM support for the device, but the move will be subject to regulatory approval, which could explain the delay.