A recent rumor claimed Apple will add dual-SIM functionality to at least one of the handsets in this year’s iPhone lineup. Now its latest developer update has all but confirms those claims.
Code discovered in iOS 12 beta 5 reveals Apple is already making preparations for a secondary SIM card slot in some iOS devices. It seems two traditional SIM cards will be supported, rather than a traditional SIM combined with embedded Apple SIM technology.
Many smartphone makers already offer dual-SIM functionality — particularly in emerging territories where juggling two numbers simultaneously has become increasingly important for many users. But Apple has only ever supported one SIM card in the iPhone.
That could finally change in 2018.
2018 iPhone to offer dual-SIM support
Evidence of dual-SIM support has been discovered in iOS 12 beta 5 by 9to5Mac. Specifically, there are code strings that mention “secondSimStatus,” “secondSimTrayStatus,” and “DualSimDevice.” All indicate that a future iPhone will have a second SIM card tray.
This follows a rumor that claims at least one of this year’s iPhones — most likely the larger and more expensive iPhone X Plus — will support two SIM cards. It would give users the ability to manage two numbers simultaneously, rather than having to juggle two different devices.
Photo: 9to5Mac
It’s also handy for those who regularly travel to other countries and use another number from a local carrier while they’re abroad.
It was suggested that Apple could combine a traditional SIM card slot with its own embedded Apple SIM technology. However, this code suggests it will simply provide two SIM card trays, which makes sense when you consider not all carriers support Apple SIM yet.
