Google is set to make a bold change with its upcoming Pixel 10 series in the United States, moving entirely to eSIM technology and abandoning the traditional physical SIM card tray for its standard and Pro models. According to a recent leak from well-known insider @evleaks, this shift to dual eSIM capability will affect the Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, and Pixel 10 Pro XL in the US market, marking a significant milestone in mobile connectivity evolution. Notably, the Pixel 10 Pro Fold is rumored to remain the lone exception—still offering support for physical SIM cards for those who need it.
eSIM-Only: The New US Standard for Google’s Pixel 10
This anticipated change is expected to apply strictly to US models of the Pixel 10 lineup. In other markets, Google may continue to sell Pixel 10 devices equipped with a physical SIM option, giving international consumers a choice based on their region’s carrier infrastructure and user preferences.
Why Is Google Making the Switch?
Opting for eSIM-only devices offers several advantages:
- Easier Carrier Switching: Users can activate or switch carriers without handling a physical SIM card, making it more convenient to change networks or travel internationally.
- More Internal Space: Eliminating the SIM tray gives manufacturers extra room for other hardware, possibly enabling features like a larger battery or improved internal components.
- Enhanced Security: With no removable SIM card, it becomes harder for thieves to tamper with a stolen phone.
- Follow the Trend: Apple’s iPhone 16 series in the US has already made the eSIM-only transition, and Google appears ready to follow suit, hinting at an industry trend in select markets.
What About International Users?
For now, this change is expected to impact only the US versions of the Pixel 10 family. Users in other regions may still see models with the traditional SIM tray, reflecting different regional requirements and carrier readiness for eSIM technology.
Will Samsung Follow?
Google’s move will likely raise speculation about whether other major Android phone makers, such as Samsung, might soon take a similar direction—especially with upcoming series like the Galaxy S26 on the horizon. As carriers worldwide build out better support for eSIM, more manufacturers may be emboldened to drop the card tray in their flagship lines.
What Does This Mean for Consumers?
For most consumers, the shift to eSIM should mean a more streamlined, flexible mobile experience. You’ll be able to set up or change service quickly, often without visiting a store or waiting for a SIM to arrive. However, if you frequently use physical SIMs for swapping between phones, or travel to locations where eSIM support is limited, this transition might require some adjustment.
While not everyone may embrace the change immediately, the transition to eSIM-only devices in the US signals a future where convenience and digital flexibility take center stage in mobile technology.