China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) has authorized the country’s three major telecommunications operators—China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom—to conduct commercial trials for eSIM services starting in October 2025. The authorization allows Chinese mobile users to activate cellular service without physical SIM cards, marking a significant shift in how consumers access mobile networks.
The three carriers have implemented nationwide eSIM services with distinct activation approaches. China Unicom has established a nationwide appointment booking system, with over 70,000 users enrolled in the program. China Mobile offers digital activation through its mobile application, while China Telecom requires customers to visit retail locations for eSIM activation. The varied approach reflects global eSIM deployment strategies, where carriers have tested different implementation methods to ensure smooth consumer adoption.
Device compatibility varies among carriers, showing the growing ecosystem of eSIM-enabled products. China Unicom has certified 75 devices for eSIM functionality, spanning smartphones, smartwatches, and tablets. China Mobile’s eSIM ecosystem encompasses mobile phones, tablets, smartwatches, and automotive devices, demonstrating the technology’s expansion beyond traditional mobile devices into the broader Internet of Things (IoT) sector.
The iPhone Air, Apple’s first eSIM-only device for the Chinese market, represents a significant milestone in this transition. The device is scheduled for release on October 22, with a starting price of 7,999 yuan ($1,121.56). Domestic manufacturers, including OPPO and Huawei, are developing their own eSIM-compatible devices, indicating strong support from local technology companies for this digital transformation.
The adoption of eSIM technology enables enhanced multi-device coordination and remote SIM activation, offering significant advantages over traditional physical SIM cards. Users can switch between carriers without replacing physical SIM cards, increasing service flexibility and improving the overall customer experience. The capability proves particularly valuable in IoT applications, where remote device management and seamless connectivity are essential.
IDC China research manager Guo Tianxiang has noted the diverse implementation strategies adopted by the three major Chinese mobile service operators, highlighting how each carrier is adapting the technology to suit their existing infrastructure and customer base.
The nationwide rollout matches global digital SIM technology trends and is expected to drive advancement in both mobile communications and Internet of Things (IoT) applications. The initiative follows similar programs in other markets, where telecommunications providers have been rapidly adopting eSIM technology to modernize their service offerings and prepare for the next generation of connected devices.
Sources: TechNode, Plataforma Media, IndexBox, South China Morning Post, 36Kr, MacDailyNews
