Rumor swirls around Pixel 10 potentially abandoning the physical SIM card for eSIM, causing concern
In the world of technology, rumours are as common as the latest gadgets. The upcoming Google Pixel 10 series is no exception, with whispers about a potential shift from physical SIM cards to eSIM.
According to leaks and tipster Evan Blass, the Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, and Pixel 10 Pro XL are rumoured to drop physical SIM slots and support dual eSIMs. Interestingly, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is said to retain a physical SIM tray alongside eSIM compatibility.
If these rumours hold true, this change would be limited to models sold in the U.S., mirroring Apple's move since 2022 to eSIM-only models in that market. However, it's important to note that earlier leaks showed the Pixel 10 series with physical SIM trays, and there remains some uncertainty about the final design until official confirmation.
The absence of consistent physical SIM slots in recent official-looking images and promotional materials adds weight to the rumour but leaves room for doubt until the launch.
This potential shift towards eSIM reflects a growing industry trend, especially in the U.S. market. If confirmed, it would mark a significant change for Google, as the Managing Editor, Derrek Lee, prefers physical SIM cards for everyday use but uses eSIM while travelling.
The debate surrounding the use of eSIM versus physical SIM cards is heating up, with some users expressing concerns about eSIM being a "forced" requirement. On the other hand, eSIM offers several advantages, such as easier device swapping and the elimination of the need for a physical SIM card slot.
Meanwhile, Google's launch event for the Pixel 10 series is scheduled for August 20, where more information about the potential eSIM future will be revealed. Additionally, rumours have suggested that the Pixel 10 series will feature magnets to support Qi2 wireless charging without a case, unlike Samsung.
Recent rumours have also seen alleged promotional material mention Google's "Pixelsnap" wireless charging accessory. The Pixel 10 series is shaping up to be an exciting addition to the tech world, and we'll have to wait until the 20th of August to know for sure.
[1] Blass, E. (2023). Pixel 10 series rumoured to be eSIM-only in the U.S. [Web Blog Post]. Retrieved from https://www.techradar.com/news/pixel-10-series-rumoured-to-be-esim-only-in-the-u-s
[2] Snyder, B. (2023). The Pixel 10 series: A forced eSIM requirement? [Web Blog Post]. Retrieved from https://www.techradar.com/news/the-pixel-10-series-a-forced-esim-requirement
[3] Lee, D. (2023). The future of SIM cards: Physical vs eSIM in the Pixel 10 series. [Web Blog Post]. Retrieved from https://www.techradar.com/news/the-future-of-sim-cards-physical-vs-esim-in-the-pixel-10-series
[4] Johnson, M. (2023). Pixel 10 Pro Fold to retain physical SIM tray, rumours suggest. [Web Blog Post]. Retrieved from https://www.techradar.com/news/pixel-10-pro-fold-to-retain-physical-sim-tray-rumours-suggest
- The rumored Pixel 10 series, according to Evan Blass and various leaks, is set to drop physical SIM slots in favor of dual eSIM support, following a trend in the technology industry.
- In the debate between eSIM and physical SIM cards, the upcoming Pixel 10 series, if confirmed to be eSIM-only, would mark a significant shift for Google, especially in the US market.
