Apple intended for their new interchangeable SIM to work between carriers in the US and UK (including AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, and EE), but it seems AT&T had other plans. While the idea was that you could switch carriers using your device settings instead of swapping SIM cards, if you choose to get your data service with AT&T this won’t be the case.
According to an on-screen notification:
“Once activation is complete this Apple SIM can only be used with AT&T. You will need a new Apple SIM if you change carriers in the future.”
AT&T is quick to confirm that this news is true, but hasn’t yet announced why they have chosen to go against the nature of the new SIM card.
This kind of move certainly isn’t going to win any popularity contests for AT&T, and may make them look like bullies in the long run –especially if they are the only carrier to lock users in to their service in this way. I doubt it is impressing Apple much either, and it is likely safe to assume that they will make it well known this wasn’t their decision or within their control.
Are you less likely to choose AT&T after hearing this news?
Jillian Koskie is an experienced software developer, content writer, project manager and usability design expert. With over 17 years in these roles, Jillian has enjoyed applying her skill-set to assist clients and users across a wide variety of sectors including: legal, health, and financial services. Combining these professional opportunities with a love of technology, Jillian is pleased to contribute articles, opinions, and advice to numerous news outlets, websites, and publications.
