Apple has officially launched the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, and iPhone 14 Pro Max, bringing a host of upgrades that might tempt you to upgrade from your current device immediately. However, there’s one major change that could give many users pause before making the switch — the removal of the physical SIM card tray across all iPhone 14 models sold in the U.S.

Earlier this year, the third-gen iPhone SE dropped support for 3G CDMA networks, which was anticipated. But now, Apple has taken a more drastic step: every iPhone 14 model in the United States is eSIM-only. This move comes as a surprise, especially since numerous mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) still don’t support eSIM — particularly for prepaid plans.

Take my situation, for example. I use a physical SIM from Page Plus at a cost of just over $3 per month. The number has an area code that's often mistaken for a local one in my region, leading people to dial it by accident. To solve this, I set up that number to forward all calls and messages directly to my main line.

If I were to switch to an iPhone 14 model, I’d need to keep an old phone on hand just to maintain that low-cost plan — because Page Plus doesn’t support eSIM.

• Don't Miss: These Are the Only Differences Between iPhone 14 Pro and 14 Pro Max

Physical SIMs are also essential for international travelers. When visiting countries outside the U.S., many users rely on local prepaid SIM cards to avoid high roaming fees. These are affordable and simple to install upon arrival. Although some global carriers now offer eSIM options, they’re typically more expensive than their physical counterparts.

Additionally, activating an eSIM can be a hassle if your carrier doesn’t provide a direct setup link. For instance, T-Mobile outlines a 16-step manual process for entering eSIM details, compared to just five steps when using a QR code or activation link.

While eSIM technology represents the future of mobile connectivity, the physical SIM slot remains crucial — at least until every carrier, both prepaid and postpaid, fully adopts eSIM.

It's worth noting that only U.S. versions of the iPhone 14 series lack the physical SIM tray. In other regions — including Australia, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, France, India, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Portugal, Puerto Rico, and the U.K. — iPhone 14 models come with both nano-SIM slots and eSIM support. Interestingly, Hong Kong models don’t include eSIM capability at all.

Don't Miss: Dial These Secret Codes to See if Someone Is Hijacking Calls & Texts on Your iPhone

Cover image via Apple

The above is the detailed content of The Worst 'Feature' Every iPhone 14 Series Model Has . For more information, please follow other related articles on the PHP Chinese website!