Apple Delays iPhone Air Launch in Beijing Amid Regulatory Hurdles

Apple has abruptly postponed the Beijing debut of its iPhone Air, citing unresolved regulatory approvals. Chinese consumers attempting Friday pre-orders encountered blank pages and vague promises of future updates—a rare logistical stumble for the tech giant.

The delay compounds existing compatibility challenges. Unlike global models, China's iPhone Air rollout faces unique friction due to its eSIM-exclusive design—a technology still in infancy across Chinese telecom networks. Initial access will be restricted to China Unicorn subscribers, requiring in-store activation.

Behind the scenes, carriers scramble to adapt. China Mobile's Wednesday eSIM service update signals accelerating infrastructure adjustments, while Apple's revised support page hints at impending partnerships with China Telecom and China Mobile. The September 19 global launch date now hangs in precarious balance for Beijing's consumers.