Apple CEO Tim Cook announced on Weibo that the iPhone Air will be available for pre-order in China this Friday. The release was previously delayed due to regulatory issues surrounding the device's eSIM-only requirement. Unlike other iPhone 17 models, the iPhone Air lacks a physical SIM slot, relying solely on eSIM technology. This presented a challenge in China, where carriers have not traditionally supported eSIM for iPhones. Apple confirmed that all three major Chinese carriers will offer eSIM support. Specific timing for this carrier support is subject to ongoing regulatory approval. The iPhone Air is priced starting at 7,999 yuan in China. Pre-orders are scheduled to begin on October 17th. The official launch date for the iPhone Air in China is October 22nd. This announcement comes during Tim Cook's visit to the country.