Apple has updated the SIM specifications for the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max models intended for the Chinese market. These devices, identified by model numbers A3715 and A3718, now feature support for both physical nano-SIM cards and eSIM technology, allowing users to utilize various combinations of two SIMs.
Despite the hardware capability to store two physical SIMs and two eSIMs, the devices remain limited to dual standby mode. Users can choose between two physical nano-SIMs, one physical SIM combined with one eSIM, or two active eSIMs. Major Chinese carriers, including China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom, support these eSIM services.
Activation of domestic eSIMs in mainland China requires an in-person visit to a carrier's physical store. Users must present their identification for verification by staff to complete the process. Digital activation methods, such as QR code scanning, carrier apps, or quick eSIM transfers, are currently not available for domestic operators.
The devices also impose geographic restrictions on eSIM usage. Users cannot install eSIMs from foreign carriers while inside mainland China. However, when traveling abroad, owners of these Chinese-market iPhones can activate local or travel eSIMs, provided they enable location services to verify their presence outside the country.
