iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max to go eSIM-only: Dropping the physical SIM for record battery life

Apple is continuing its move toward completely eliminating physical SIM card slots in its premium models. According to new reports from TechManiacs and GF Securities analyst Jeff Pu, the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max will be released exclusively in eSIM versions — without a nano-SIM tray in any region worldwide. The distinction between “U.S.” and “global” versions will no longer exist.

The Main Reason: More Space for the Battery

Freeing up internal space is the primary motivation. By removing the mechanical SIM tray, engineers gain extra room to install a higher-capacity battery. Rumors suggest that the iPhone 18 Pro Max could feature a 5,100–5,200 mAh battery — one of the largest in iPhone history. Battery life is expected to reach record levels for Apple devices.

A similar approach is anticipated for the foldable iPhone Fold (or Flip), whose ultra-thin design leaves no room for a traditional SIM slot. In the long term, eSIM is expected to become the only option for all new Apple flagship devices.

What Else to Expect from the iPhone 18 Pro in 2026

• A20 Pro chip built on TSMC’s 2nm process, delivering improved performance and energy efficiency.
• Updated wireless components: the N2 Wi-Fi/Bluetooth chip and the C2 modem (with mmWave and sub-6 GHz 5G support, built on a 4nm process).
• A smaller Dynamic Island thanks to partial under-display integration of Face ID components.
• A variable aperture system in the main 48MP camera for improved photography in different lighting conditions.

Prices to Remain at 2025 Levels

Apple is not expected to raise recommended retail prices. Estimated starting prices are:

• iPhone 18 Pro — $1,099
• iPhone 18 Pro Max — $1,199

The iPhone 18 lineup is expected to be unveiled in September 2026. The base iPhone 18 and the slim iPhone Air 2 will likely be introduced later, in early 2027.

Why Apple Is Fully Abandoning the Physical SIM

The transition to eSIM began with the iPhone 14 in the U.S. and expanded to many markets in 2024–2025. Now Apple appears ready to take the final step by eliminating the SIM tray in all regions simultaneously. This simplifies manufacturing, reduces assembly costs, and frees up space for larger batteries, improved cameras, or other components.

For users accustomed to physical SIM cards, this shift may prove inconvenient — especially when traveling to countries with limited eSIM support or where quickly switching carriers is necessary.

In Brief

The iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max will launch as eSIM-only devices, without a physical SIM slot worldwide. Apple will use the freed-up space to install a record-breaking battery (5,100–5,200 mAh in the Pro Max). Prices will remain unchanged at $1,099 and $1,199. The same approach is expected for the foldable iPhone Fold. The presentation is scheduled for September 2026. This marks Apple’s final step toward a full transition to eSIM in the premium segment.