Apple\“s iPhone 16 Pro continues to feature a physical SIM card slot, catering to the specific needs of the Indian market where eSIM adoption is still growing but physical SIMs remain dominant. This strategic decision by Apple ensures compatibility with India\“s diverse telecom infrastructure and addresses the preferences of local consumers who frequently switch between multiple network providers.
In India, the availability of physical SIM slots in premium smartphones like the iPhone 16 Pro is crucial due to the widespread use of dual SIM functionality. Many Indian users maintain separate SIM cards for personal and business use, or to leverage competitive data and call plans from different operators such as Jio, Airtel, and Vi. The physical SIM slot in the iPhone 16 Pro supports these practices, making it a practical choice for the price-sensitive yet tech-savvy Indian consumer base.
Furthermore, the iPhone 16 Pro\“s physical SIM slot aligns with the regulatory and retail environment in India. Local mobile retailers often assist customers with SIM activation and swaps, processes that are more straightforward with physical SIM cards. This feature enhances the device\“s accessibility and appeal in both urban and rural markets, where digital literacy and eSIM infrastructure may vary. |
