Mashable: Digital SIMs, or eSIMs, eliminate the need for a nano-SIM card when activating a mobile service plan.

Analyst Mark Gurman predicted that some variants of Apple's next iPhone, which is slated to be announced in just three days, will do away with the SIM card slot. However, he also indicated that this change might not come until the iPhone 15 next year. There have been rumblings that the SIM card slot will be eliminated in the future.

Gurman forecasted in his newsletter that this time around "Apple will give eSIM a larger push," with carriers getting ready to guide consumers toward the digital, integrated SIM cards rather than the traditional ones. As early as this year or next, Apple may do away with the SIM card port entirely on certain of its devices.

Digital SIMs, or eSIMs, eliminate the need for a nano-SIM card when activating a mobile service plan. During the transition, some iPhone models with a SIM card slot may still work for at least a few years. This is because eSIM is becoming more common, but the technology is still not available everywhere.

As of now, the iPhone 13 versions sold in Apple retail stores and online do not include a nano-SIM card, but instead require activation of a cellular plan through eSIM, which is accomplished by turning on the iPhone, connecting it to a Wi-Fi network, and then following the on-screen instructions. The iPhone 13 series also supports multiple eSIM profiles, so you can sign up for and switch between various digital cellular plans—ideal for when you're traveling.

Aside from potentially increasing the iPhone's water resistance, removing the SIM card port would also free up some internal space.

Apple is anticipated to unveil the iPhone 14 range on Wednesday at the ‘Far out’ event at Steve Jobs Theater. A new Apple Watch Series 8 model, a new Apple Watch SE, a new Apple Watch Pro, and a new AirPods Pro are also anticipated.