In 2022, Apple caused a lot of controversy when it launched the iPhone 14 series that only supported eSIM in the US market. This move confused many people because the iPhone 14 hardware disassembly articles showed that the space usually reserved for the physical SIM slot on the international version of the iPhone was replaced by Apple with a piece of plastic, instead of being used to add components or increase battery capacity. Of course, with the iPhone 15 launched last year, Apple also only supported eSIM for this model in the US market.

Many people are worried that Android manufacturers will imitate Apple, remove the physical SIM tray, and only support eSIM on flagship models. Because Apple often leads the trend in the smartphone market. However, with Samsung's Galaxy S24 series, and especially the launch event of the Pixel 9 series on August 14, it brought joy to many people when these brands did not imitate the above move.

Specifically, both the Pixel 9 series (including the Pixel 9 Pro Fold) and the Galaxy S24, along with the latest foldable phone models, are equipped with a physical Nano SIM slot in addition to the eSIM. This move is welcomed by users because it ensures flexibility and convenience, especially in the context of eSIM not being widely popularized.

Although eSIM brings many benefits such as easy switching of carriers or saving device space, Android Authority believes that this technology is not really perfect. Even in the Vietnamese market, switching eSIM between devices is still complicated, not to mention that not all carriers support eSIM.

By retaining the physical SIM slot, Google and Samsung have shown respect for users' rights, and at the same time showing their wisdom in not following the trend when it is not really suitable. Hopefully, in the future, when eSIM becomes more popular and complete, manufacturers will have more optimal solutions for users.